By Jeremy Housewright, Staff Writer
Community support continues to grow for No Time to Spare Animal Rescue & Sanctuary, as the organization held its annual “We Love Dogs” Trivia Night on Saturday night. The event was a sell-out, held at the Trigg Banquet Center in O’Fallon, a milestone organizers say reflects the strong backing behind their mission.
“The support we have been receiving from the community has been outstanding,” Community Relations and Engagement Director Sue Stites said. “We rely strictly on donations.”
The Warrenton-based rescue, a no-kill nonprofit run entirely by volunteers, relies on grassroots fundraising and local partnerships to continue caring for animals in need. Without corporate or government funding, events like trivia night play a vital role in keeping operations moving forward.
“WOW! We sold out,” organizers shared in a recent Facebook announcement. “Because we love dogs.”
If you were unable to make it to the trivia night, supporters still have opportunities to contribute through donations and supply drives. Organizers are currently accepting items such as liquid laundry detergent, bleach, Nyla Bones, Milk-Bone treats, Purina One adult or puppy food, blankets and towels.
Those who are unable to attend events in person can also give through cash, check or digital platforms, helping the rescue maintain daily care for animals while expanding community outreach programs.
The sold-out evening joins a growing list of creative fundraisers hosted by the organization in recent years, including popular events like Puppy Yoga, a lighthearted gathering that combined wellness and animal advocacy while introducing adoptable dogs to potential families.
One of the rescue’s newest initiatives, Morgan’s Pet Pantry, continues to expand its impact by supporting pet owners facing financial hardship.
Created in memory of Morgan Wilcox, a young animal lover whose compassion inspired the effort, the program helps provide food and supplies so families can keep their pets at home rather than surrendering them to shelters. The pantry has quickly become a meaningful extension of the rescue’s mission, blending community service with remembrance.
“Morgan loved animals and volunteered at shelters,” her aunt, Tracy Ellis, said. “Her passing was shocking and tragic and we were trying to think of things to do in her remembrance. Now people from as far as Kansas and Florida have donated to the shelter, knowing her story.”
Morgan’s Pet Pantry does so much more than help feed animals. It allows for those that need it to receive veterinary care.
“We do so much more than give out pet food,” Lynda Ryan-Baker said. “We provide shots and healthcare for pets, as well as blankets and toys..”
The service is available on the last Thursday of every month from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the 27933 Pendleton Lost Creek Rd.
Baker said the initiative reflects the same spirit that drives NTTSAR’s fundraising events, neighbors helping neighbors while honoring a legacy of kindness that was shown by Morgan, who had adopted a Pit puppy and kitten before her passing.
Stites described NTTSAR as a “small but mighty” volunteer-run organization dedicated to providing safe haven, medical care and adoption opportunities for animals across the region.
Baker also noted that every donation, whether it’s a bag of dog food or a simple blanket, helps ensure animals receive consistent care.
In 2025, the organization adopted 445 dogs, spayed or neutered 428 and took in 436. There was no slowing down in 2026, as the group adopted 52 dogs in January.
The easiest ways to help NTTSAR include volunteering, fostering animals temporarily or donating supplies. Simply sharing the rescue’s social media posts can also help animals find homes faster. Items can be donated at NTTSAR or in Wentzville at Animal Talk Medical Center, located at 12800 Veterans Memorial Parkway.
For more information about upcoming events, donation opportunities or volunteer involvement, community members can visit NTTSARS.com.