Contest could net Mystic Farm a new vehicle

SAGLE — An act as simple as voting online could have a huge impact for the folks at Mystic Farm Wildlife Rescue.

Toyota Motors has selected the wild animal shelter as one of its 500 finalists in their philanthropic outreach 100 Cars For Good. If enough people get online and show their love for Mystic Farm, the nonprofit could end up with a brand new Toyota vehicle that will transport orphaned or injured baby deer, elk and moose for rehabilitation and eventual release. In addition, the new vehicle will be covered by a six-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

 “Everyone at Mystic Farm is thrilled to have been selected as a finalist for the 100 Cars For Good program,” Mystic Farm executive director Dory McIsaac said. “We’re grateful for this incredible opportunity to showcase the rescue of our precious wildlife, and hopefully win a vehicle to help us increase our impact on the survival rate of orphaned ungulates in Idaho.”

The concept is simple. Program managers have been profiling nonprofits across the country since May 14, challenging website visitors to select the organization that provides the most benefit. The winner of the daily profile contest will receive one of six Toyota models, while the runner-ups get a $1,000 grant. If Mystic Farm wins, McIsaac will likely select a Toyota Highlander or Tundra pickup to best accommodate the animals they may need to assist.

Mystic Farm will be up to bat on July 13 from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., so residents should mark the date on their calendar. On that day, simply visit www.100carsforgood.com and follow the online instructions.

 “A new vehicle would really be a game changer for our ability to transport and treat the babies in a timely fashion,” McIsaac said.

100 Cars for good is the first philanthropic initiative by Toyota that allows the public to participate directly in the charity process. According to Michael Rouse, Toyota vice president of philanthropy, it couldn’t happen to a better bunch of organizations.

“The 500 finalists are an extraordinary group, and we look forward to the public learning more about them,” he said.