Sarah Jane Rogers, a sophomore at MAST Academy in Homestead, is hosting her “Dog Wash for a Cause” again this year. The fundraising event takes place at the Paws 4 You Rescue shelter on Mar. 14.
“For the past few years I have been volunteering with Paws 4 You Rescue,” Rogers said. “Right from the start, I fell in love with the shelter and all of their dogs. I even adopted one.
“I wanted to find a way to make a bigger impact than just volunteering. So, when I was in ninth grade, I created ‘Dog Wash for a Cause’ as a fun way to raise money and to bring people to the rescue facility to see what amazing things they do and how they are saving dogs,” she added. “This was the first-ever fundraiser Paws 4 You allowed at the actual shelter. I felt so privileged to be allowed to have the event.” Paws 4 You Rescue Inc. is a no-kill animal shelter located at 8717 SW 134 St. in the warehouse district by The Falls. The non-profit organization rescues animals that are sick, injured, homeless, surrendered, or simply lost.
Paws 4 You Rescue gives these animals a safe environment, professional medical care, training, support, hope and “lots of love.”
“Last year we had such an amazing turnout of more than 100 people,” Rogers said. “It was much greater than we had ever imagined for our very first year. I am extremely excited to be doing this for a second year and I am hopeful this year’s event is even more successful. It is my goal to double the amount that was raised last year.”
Rogers said she initially wanted to raise awareness in the community about animal cruelty. She believes it is important for others in the community also to become aware of the shelter, to help raise funds and get dogs adopted. Last year, working with some of her dedicated classmates, the first “Dog Wash for a Cause” was a success and raised more than $2,000, which was used for a new fence for the rescue facility, along with other much-needed supplies.
The dog wash runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Mar. 14. Rogers invites dog owners to bring their well-behaved fourlegged friend for a scrub down. A minimum donation of $10 for each dog to be washed is requested. All proceeds will benefit Paws 4 You Rescue.
“Calling all dirty dogs!” Rogers said.
As a result of the positive attention brought to Paws 4 You, she has committed to making it an annual event.
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