Highest-ever fundraising total helps fifth annual campaign reach nearly $50,000 milestone

First Commerce Credit Union’s fifth annual Liz Nix Fundraiser for Animal Rescue generated nearly $16,000 in 2026, the highest annual total in the fundraiser’s history, bringing its overall impact to nearly $50,000 since its launch.

Held each May during National Pet Month, the fundraiser benefits animal welfare organizations across North Florida and South Georgia. Through the generosity of individuals and businesses in the communities First Commerce serves, the credit union helps the organizations continue their work to find homes for lost and abandoned animals and provide services such as animal vaccinations, microchipping, spay and neuter initiatives, and much more.

First Commerce team members throughout August and September distributed the funds to six of its animal organization partners: Hearts to Homes Humane Society in Nashville; Leon County Humane Society in Tallahassee; Thomasville Humane; the Humane Society of Valdosta/Lowndes County; the Humane Society of Bay County; and It’s Meow or Never in Tallahassee.

By supporting these organizations in providing services, the fundraiser helps strengthen communities by reducing animal overpopulation, increasing access to veterinary care and helping more pets find safe, permanent homes.

“What started five years ago as a way for First Commerce to support our partner organizations’ missions to save and improve the lives of countless animals has turned into a heartwarming annual tradition,” said First Commerce Credit Union CEO Cecilia Homison. “The generosity of the communities we serve only reaffirms that North Florida and South Georgia love their animals and the people who care for them.”

The Liz Nix fundraiser’s impact extends beyond fundraising. Throughout May, First Commerce hosted community cookouts, sold pet-themed merchandise and partnered with local animal organizations to connect residents with adoptable pets.

In Tallahassee alone, Leon County Humane Society participated in multiple community cookout events that helped showcase dogs seeking forever homes, while other partner organizations brought adoptable animals to events throughout the region.

The Leon County Humane Society helps more than 1,000 animals each year, making every bit of community support the organization receives valuable.

“Partnerships with dedicated, community-minded organizations such as First Commerce Credit Union help us strengthen and advance our mission to Rescue, Rehabilitate and Educate,” said Lynne Rahman, financial administrator for the Leon County Humane Society. “We are grateful for First Commerce Credit Union’s continued support and dedication to improving the lives of homeless and vulnerable animals throughout our region.”

The Liz Nix fundraiser expanded its impact in 2026 by adding the Humane Society of Bay County as a partner organization.

For the Humane Society of Bay County, the funds raised arrive at a particularly important time as the organization continues rebuilding after its shelter sustained severe damage from Hurricane Michael.

“The funds raised through the Liz Nix Fundraiser will go directly into our rebuild fund, supporting both the reconstruction of our facility and the purchase of essential items for the animals in our care,” said Kelley Ditore, administrator of the Humane Society of Bay County. “We are truly elated to be partnering with First Commerce Credit Union and grateful they chose us as this year’s partner.”

The annual fundraiser honors the memory of Liz Nix, a passionate animal advocate whose legacy continues to inspire support for lost, abandoned and neglected animals throughout the region. Since the fundraiser began in Nashville, Georgia, every dollar raised has remained in the communities where it was collected, helping maximize local impact.

The full list of funds distributed from First Commerce’s Liz Nix Fundraiser for Animal Rescue:

• Leon County Humane Society: $3,578.17
• It’s Meow or Never, Tallahassee, FL: $1,083.00
• Hearts to Homes Humane Society, Nashville, GA: $5,803.85
• Thomasville Humane: $1,761.63
• Humane Society of Valdosta/Lowndes County: $1,765.40
• The Humane Society of Bay County: $1,812.40