Years ago I founded a festival called Pet Party in the Park. I worked to file permits and find sponsors. I even gave a presentation at our neighborhood association to request their sponsorship and got to meet our City Councilwoman who supported my efforts each year. I enlisted other classmates and we placed signs around the neighborhood. For entertainment, the event hosted a petting zoo, frisbee dogs, lure course, face painting, circus performers, and pet costume booths. I wanted to directly benefit LifeLine Animal Shelter, so they brought a few dogs that people could adopt on the spot. In order to raise donations, we had a cake walk with local baked dog treats and auction baskets. The event netted approximately $2,600 for the animal shelter and a few people walked home with their new pets. I will continue to work, spreading awareness about the importance of rescuing and adopting from animal shelters until euthanasia is no longer a thought.

 I heard a news report that LifeLine Animal Shelter would have to euthanize several dogs due to overcrowding. My heart dropped. I immediately visited the shelter to see what I could do to help and signed up to volunteer in “Dog for a Day.” This program allows dogs a field trip away from the shelter, providing a break from the stress of confinement, surrounded by other barking dogs and the sadness of seeing people look and walk away. Socializing in a natural environment gives them a chance to showcase their true personality. Meet Jumo, a brown 40lb dog who thinks he’s a lap dog. He loves to lay in the sun and his tongue is constantly hanging out. He also loves to feel his ears flap in the wind on car rides. He wears an “adopt me” vest while we walk on the Atlanta Beltline. People love dogs and I get to share information when they ask if they can pet him. 

Every Sunday I volunteer at Decatur City Church. I volunteer in the children's environment called Waumba Land. I am a worship leader so I teach the kids a big idea, their bible verse, and I sing songs with them. I love when we have themed sundays and I get to wear fun costumes. For halloween we had a mega awesome costume party and the theme was Candy Land so I dressed as an M&M with my mom. Our summer of 2024 theme was western so I got to wear boots and a cowgirl hat all summer long while teaching these kids about God.