We are VARS - Volunteer Animal Retrieval Specialists, a Native-owned and woman-owned California nonprofit with a simple mission:

Any animal, from any tree, if they go up, so do we.

Every day, we respond to urgent calls to retrieve cats and other animals stuck in trees, on rooftops, or in places most people can’t reach. We do this at no charge, because every life matters and no one should have to choose between their pet’s safety and their wallet.

But while our climbers volunteer their time, keeping this nonprofit alive takes resources. Fuel, gear maintenance, insurance, phones, outreach, and safety equipment all add up. Without your support, we can’t keep showing up for the animals and families who need us most.

Why We Need Your Help

We just received our official 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, which means your donation is now fully tax-deductible! However, we are still in our very first year, and right now, general operating support is what makes the difference between us answering that next call or not.

Your donation helps us:

Keep our phones and website active so families can reach us in emergencies.

Cover fuel costs to respond across California.

Replace ropes, harnesses, helmets, and other climbing gear that keep rescues safe.

Handle insurance, legal, and compliance costs required to operate as a nonprofit.

Support community outreach efforts like flyers, business cards, and awareness campaigns so more people know who to call when an animal is in trouble.

Every Dollar Lifts Us Higher

When you give, you’re not just donating, you’re directly helping save animals’ lives and bringing peace of mind to their families.

Any amount keeps our mission alive.

No gift is too small. Together, we can make sure no animal is left behind.

Join Our Mission

We’ve proven that we can do the retrievals, now we need the community to help us keep climbing. Please donate, share this campaign, and follow our retrievals on TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube to see your support in action.

Thank you for helping us keep this unique and life-saving service alive.

The VARS Team

Volunteer Animal Retrieval Specialists

Any animal, from any tree, if they go up, so do we.

TikTok: @vars_ca

YouTube: @VARS_CA

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VolunteerAnimalRetrievalSpecialists/