Author: Hailey VanderWilt, Communications Coordinator
For Amy and Garrett, supporting Paws With A Cause started with a foster puppy named NASH—and quickly grew into something more.
As foster puppy raisers, they’re part of the early journey that helps transform puppies into life-changing assistance and facility dogs. It’s a role built on patience, consistency, and care. After seeing that process up close, they knew they wanted to give back in another way. This summer, they’re doing just that by running and fundraising in PAWS in the Park.
“We chose to fundraise through PAWS in the Park because we’ve seen firsthand the incredible work Paws With A Cause does,” Amy and Garrett shared. “Our time with foster puppy NASH has shown us how much time, care, and support goes into preparing these dogs for the important work they’ll do one day. Fundraising is a small way for us to give back and help make that impact possible for someone else.”
From Foster Puppy to Bigger Impact
Like many in the PAWS community, Amy and Garrett started with a simple goal: to give back in a meaningful way. Raising NASH has given them a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to prepare a future working dog for placement—from basic obedience to building confidence in new environments.
Even at this early stage, the impact is clear. Every outing, every training session, and every new experience helps shape NASH’s future—and the lives he will change.
Why They Run
For Amy and Garrett, PAWS in the Park is more than a race. It’s a way to turn their personal connection into something bigger.
Running and fundraising allow them to invite others into the mission—helping friends, family, and their community to see the work behind each PAWS dog and the resources it takes to make these partnerships possible.
Every dollar raised supports the journey of a PAWS dog, from early development through advanced training and placement. It’s an investment that creates independence, confidence, and connection for clients and communities.
Make Your Miles Matter
You don’t have to be a seasoned runner to get involved. PAWS in the Park offers both a 5K and a 1-mile option, making it easy to participate at any pace. Whether you run, walk, or simply support a participant, every step makes a difference.
Participants can also amplify their impact through fundraising—and getting started is easier than you might think. The PAWS in the Park Fundraising Toolkit was created specifically for participants, offering simple tips, ready-to-use messages, and creative ideas to help you reach your goal.
It’s everything you need to turn your participation into meaningful support for PAWS.
Join the Movement
For Amy and Garrett, this experience is about more than crossing the finish line. It’s about being part of a community that believes in the power of PAWS dogs to transform lives and strengthen communities.
Ready to make your miles matter? Sign up for PAWS in the Park, create a fundraiser or support a participant, and join a community working together to build life-changing partnerships—one step at a time.
