Press release from Paws & Effect:
On Friday, April 20 at 5:30 PM, nonprofit organization Paws & Effect will partner with Students Demand Action for Gun Sense in America to host a kickoff fundraiser at The Block off Biltmore. Money raised will offset the costs associated with acquiring, caring for, training and placing a litter of service dogs for those injured by gun violence in the United States. The cost of each dog is likely to exceed $15,000, the costs of which will be borne entirely by the nonprofits, so that service dogs may be gifted to recipients at no cost whatsoever.
Local members of Students Demand Action, alongside thousands across the country, were responsible for organizing “March For Our Lives” which took place in cities across the country on March 24, 2018. The two organizations believe that raising a litter of service dogs will keep the effects of gun violence visible and tangible in the community. After an inspiring and significant turnout for the March in Asheville, students are encouraging the community to stay involved and continue the fight for safer schools.
Nicole Shumate, co-founder and executive director of Paws & Effect stated, “we know firsthand the effects of gun violence, having lost recipient Wade Baker to suicide in an officer-involved shooting in Canton, North Carolina. August 19, 2015 is forever etched in our memories, not just because we lost a man for whom many cared deeply, but because other lives were placed in immediate danger during the event. As an organization, we believe that there are times when access to firearms should be restricted.”
Established in 2006 and based in Des Moines, Iowa, Paws & Effect is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that raises, trains and places service dogs with individuals with multiple medical needs. The organization is also an active Dog Scout Troop with Dog Scouts of America.
Tickets to the fundraiser will cost $10 for adults and $5 for students. The fundraiser will feature live music and food and beverages will be available to purchase from the venue. Featured speakers include Democratic Sheriff’s Candidate R. Daryl Fisher, student organizers from area high schools, and Nicole Shumate, co-founder of Paws & Effect. Special guests will include service dog puppies in training!
Who: Paws & Effect and Students Demand Action for Gun Sense in America
What: A Fundraiser to Sponsor a Litter of Service Dogs for Victims of Gun Violence
When: Friday, April 20, 5:30 pm
Where: The Block off Biltmore
Tickets: Adults, $10/Students, $5
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