The New 96.5 (WTDY-FM), an Audacy station in Philadelphia, and the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) proudly teamed up to host the inaugural “Bennett’s Buddies – Paws for a Cause,” a powerful three-day adoption and fundraising campaign that brought hope and homes to animals across the region. The event raised over $21,000 in donations to support the PSPCA’s life-saving work and helped 221 adoptable pets find forever homes. Supporters also donated blankets, food, toys, coats and treats for animals in the shelter to feel safe, warm and happy during their stay.

For the past 12 years, The New 96.5 host Bennett has spotlighted PSPCA animals every week to help them find homes in his long-running “Bennett’s Buddies” program. This inaugural three-day fundraiser marked a new chapter for the program. “Bennett’s Buddies – Paws for a Cause,” ran from August 14-16 and broadcast live from three different locations, raising awareness, collecting vital donations and finding forever homes for dozens of adoptable pets. 

“Bennett’s love for animals is genuine and has been at the heart of our station for years,” said David Yadgaroff, Senior Vice President and Market Manager, Audacy Philadelphia. “The New 96.5 is proud to share that passion by bringing more animals and families together. Events like this reflect how committed we are to our community and making a difference where it matters most.”

Paws for a Cause brought The New 96.5 and the PSPCA to three live locations:

“I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Bennett for nearly a decade, and from the very first pet we brought to him, it was clear that he genuinely cares about each animal’s well-being and finding them loving forever homes,” said Gillian Kocher, Director of Public Relations, Pennsylvania SPCA. “Watching our partnership blossom into this incredible full-scale fundraising initiative with The New 96.5 has been truly inspiring. Bennett’s heart for these animals shines through in everything he does, and together we’ve been able to raise critical funds, drive adoptions, and witness the joy of connecting so many deserving animals with the families they’ve been waiting for.”

The New 96.5’s “Bennett’s Buddies – Paws for a Cause” is a part of Audacy’s commitment to making a meaningful difference at scale. Audacy uses its reach and personal connection with listeners to advance causes that promote strong mental health and build sound communities.

Listeners can tune in to The New 96.5 (WTDY-FM) in Philadelphia on air and nationwide on the Audacy app and website. Fans can also connect with the station on social media via X, Facebook and Instagram.