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The cat rescue, called Operation Winter Whiskers, was conducted in Sidonia, located in Weakley County, and was severe enough that ARC activated its year-end matching challenge early. Two ARC supporters will match all donations up to $55,000 or until the start of the new year, whichever comes first.

“This is exactly why ARC exists, to step in when animals have nowhere else to turn,� ARC Executive Director Tim Woodward said. “These cats are vulnerable and frightened and in urgent need of care. With the compassion and support of caring individuals, they can be given a second chance.�

The cats are receiving care at the Animal Rescue Corps center in nearby Gallatin. Woodward said many of ARC’s operations are in the southeast due to the number of rescues conducted in the region.

“Your average shelter is used to taking in one or two animals at a time,� Woodward said after a dog rescue in September. “At Animal Rescue Corps, we’re responding to crisis situations that often involve dozens of animals who need immediate medical care and shelter. This would overwhelm many of our local humane societies and county animal shelters. The funds raised through events like the Rescue Run ensure that ARC can continue to respond when animals need us most.�

Woodward was named a CNN Hero finalist due to more than a decade of work for ARC.

“Being named a CNN Hero finalist is a personal honor, and more importantly, it’s an opportunity to shine a light on our mission to directly support law enforcement in resolving situations of cruelty that have sometimes lasted decades,� Woodward said. “This recognition reminds us all that kindness matters, and that together we can use our compassion to create real, lasting change.�

Woodward was one of the Top 5 CNN Heroes. The Elevate Prize Foundation is matching up to $50,000 in donations made to ARC for the remainder of the year. As of writing, Woodward has raised $76,995 of his $130,000 goal.

“That funding will go directly toward expanding our ability to respond to animals in need, removing them from life-threatening situations and ending suffering,� Woodward said. “This is more than an award; it’s an opportunity for more people to learn about ARC’s critical work and how they can help.�

The Tommy Crockett Memorial Rescue Run has been operated by ARC since 2021 and is named in memory of a longtime general manager for Two Rivers Ford for 30 years before his death.