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Our very first Paws for WeCare walk is officially in the books — and what a way to kick things off.
We started WeCare because we believe an insurance agency should give back to the communities it serves, not just protect them. This year, we pointed that mission straight at the animals and shelters that make Northern Michigan feel like home, and turned it into a morning of leashes, wagging tails, and a whole lot of local support down at the Alpena Dog Park.
Thank You to Our Sponsors and Donors
None of this happens without the people and businesses willing to back it. A huge thank-you to our main sponsor, Northland Area Federal Credit Union — their support made this first-year event possible, and we're already looking forward to what we can build together next year.
And to every single donor who showed up and registered your dog: thank you. Every bit of it goes toward local animal shelters and our WeCare program, and on a first-year event, that adds up fast. Between registrations, raffle tickets, and donations, we raised $300 for animals right here in our community — a strong first step, and one we plan to build on every year from here.
Meet Some of the Dogs Who Made the Day
Paws for WeCare wouldn't be Paws for WeCare without the dogs. Shoutout to Jennifer, who brought her gentle giant, Gauge, to walk with us at the start line — and to every owner who leashed up and showed up, rain or shine.
We also want to introduce you to Moose, a one-eyed puppy who needed emergency surgery before he'd even had a real chance at life. Moose came to the event with the incredible team at 2nd Chance Animal Sanctuary, who stepped in to give him the care and the home he needed. Stories like Moose's are exactly why events like this matter — for every dog with a family cheering it on at the start line, there's another one still waiting for its own second chance
A Community Effort, Start to Finish
We were glad to see Second Chance Animal Shelter at our event too, and grateful for everyone who stopped by our booth to talk about the local causes WeCare supports. And a special thank-you to Betsy, who keeps the Alpena Dog Park spotless and welcoming for every dog and owner who walks through the gate, every single day. Parks like this one only stay great because people like Betsy show up for them.
Just Getting Started
First year in the books — and we mean it when we say we're just getting started. We've already got our sights set on growing Paws for WeCare bigger next year: more sponsors, more vendors, more dogs on the walk, and more support for the shelters and rescues doing the hard work in our community every day.
If your business would like to sponsor or set up a booth next year, or if you're a local shelter or rescue interested in partnering with WeCare, give us a call at 800-686-8664 — we'd love to talk.
Thank you to everyone who made our first Paws for WeCare walk one to remember. See you next year. 🐕