Operation Pawesomeness: Help LA Animal Shelters!

Background

I have loved dogs my whole life and all of my family’s dogs have come from Los Angeles City shelters. My parents rescued a wonderful Staffordshire terrier named Lexi a year before I was born, and I grew up saying she was my sister. Later, we adopted Charlie the Chiweenie and after Lexi unfortunately passed in 2018, we rescued another lovable Staffordshire terrier named Tasha.

What is Operation Pawesomeness?

Unlike most professionally bred dogs, shelter dogs sometimes have to wait a very long time to be rescued. I created Operation Pawesomeness as my passion project for school to give back to the LA City shelters as they need essential items (i.e., blankets, beds, toys) so these dogs can feel more comfortable while waiting to find their forever homes. In a word, we want these pups to feel awesome during their time at the shelters.

I ran Phase I of Operation Pawesomeness at my school, where I set up donation bins at my school in early March 2024. I was blown away by the overwhelming support from staff, teachers, students, parents, and even friends of my parents. In early April 2024, I dropped off over 350 new and gently used dog items to the East Valley Shelter in Van Nuys, CA -- and now with your help, I'd like to launch Phase II.

Please help support Operation Pawesomeness

Please join me in supporting the LA City Animal Shelters...your donations will help purchase items like dog leashes, food & treats, clothing, toys, blankets, bowls, beds, and so much more. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us provide essentials and loving care for our furry friends in need—thank you for considering a donation to our cause.

Thank you for being PAWESOME!

RJ Hermes, 8th Grader

April 2024