STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — DiTommaso Real Estate, which has served Staten Island, Brooklyn and New Jersey since 1987, recently organized a “Pet Adoption Day” at the agency’s New Dorp location.
DiTommaso realtor Lori Hesterhagen-Ficarra brought together several local animal rescue organizations and community members to promote pet adoption and support a number of not-for-profits.
“We have so many amazing local rescues here on Staten Island. Today it was an honor to have four of the great ones at DiTommaso!!!” said Hesterhagen-Ficarra.
Rescue groups included Pitbulls and Addicts, Victory 4 the Voiceless, and the Near and Far Animal Foundation.
Frank DiTommaso, owner of DiTommaso Real Estate, has partnered with many local not-for-profits over the years.
“Saving one animal may not change the world, but for that one animal, the world will be forever changed,” said DiTomasso. “Today’s pet adoption event at DiTommaso Real Estate saw over a hundred animal lovers with potential interest in the many dogs and cats that were there for adoption. We’re happy to share that several found new homes!”
In addition to the pet adoption efforts, the event also welcomed the GRACE Foundation of New York.
The GRACE participants sold their Graceful Bites and Bark Special Treat, all-natural dog treats handcrafted by individuals supported by the foundation.
Proceeds from the sales went directly to supporting The GRACE Foundation’s programs.
Cathy DelPriore, executive director of The GRACE Foundation and a cartoon character who attended the event. (Courtesy/Lori Hesterhagen-Ficarra)Staten Island Advance
Cathy Del Priore, executive director of The GRACE Foundation, remarked: “It is wonderful to partner with DiTommaso Real Estate and all the pet rescues. We are all part of the same nonprofit community, working together to make a difference. Our participants were excited to share their Graceful Bites and Bark Special Treats with the community. It was a wonderful experience for everyone involved, and we are grateful for the support.”
“Organizing this pet adoption day was a truly fulfilling experience,” added Hesterhagen-Ficarra. “It was incredible to see our community come together to support these wonderful organizations and help find loving homes for these deserving animals. Our goal is to continue fostering a sense of community and support for both local nonprofits and our furry friends.”
Dan Ryan and an event participant smile for the camera with a cartoon character during the fun afternoon. (Courtesy/Lori Hesterhagen-Ficarra)Staten Island Advance
Carla Murino from the Near and Far Animal Foundation expressed gratitude for the event. “We are grateful to Lori and DiTommaso Real Estate for hosting this event. It provided an excellent opportunity for us to connect with potential adopters and raise awareness about the importance of animal rescue.”
Mike Favor of Pitbulls and Addicts had a very successful day. “Thank you to DiTommaso Real Estate for hosting today’s amazing adoption event,” said Favor. “We met some amazing people, and we also got our Jessica Rabbit a home of her own! The family came down with their dog and fell in love. We brought Jessica to their home and made sure everything was good!”
“We are so grateful to have been a part of the DiTommaso annual adoption event,” said April Soto of Victory 4 the Voiceless. “Every detail of today was perfect, from the red carpet to the snacks and the amazing collection of much-needed donations. They truly went above and beyond, and it’s refreshing to see local businesses embracing their community! A warm shout out to Lori Ficarra & team for advocating tirelessly for all the rescue community’s animals in need.”
And Carla Murino of the Near and Far Animal Foundation, added: “Thank you to all that put so much heart into today’s event. We had great fun, and the pups enjoyed themselves!”
For more information about future events or to learn how you can support these organizations, please contact Lori Hesterhagen-Ficarra at lori.ficarra@gmail.com
