Every April in Sebastopol, the community comes together for a Springtime celebration at the Apple Blossom Parade and Festival. This year Dogwood was thrilled to participate at the festival where we we able to share our mission, meet community supporters and sell some wonderful Dogwood items.

During the festival, we were blessed to get to interact with many people; some who were brand new to learning about our rescue project as well as some past adopters, current volunteers and other community supporters. Among our visitors was Sonoma County DA and Dogwood adopter Jill Ravitch, who adopted Hope in 2016. We were also delighted to visit with Miss Sonoma County Tyler-Avery Lewis and Miss Sonoma County’s Outstanding Teen Pinkeo Phongsa.

One of our favorite things about getting out at these types of community events is getting to interact with our adoptive families and hear their stories of life with their animals. We were thrilled to hear about many of our animals (and see current photos) of the lives they are living as a result of being rescued through our program. We also got to meet many potential adopters and potential volunteers who we will be thrilled to invite to join us in our mission.

Our organization is full of gifted volunteers who share their gifts in a variety of ways, from hosting events to fundraising to cleaning out kennels. Everyone has something that they can do to make a difference. We have a few very talented volunteers who use their crafting skills to donate to the cause. Special thanks to Carol Davis, Toni and Lindsey Hiner, Debbie Milani Reeser and Arlis Minetti who made and donated handcrafted pet bandanas, collars and tug toys which were on sale in our booth. These, along with sweatshirts, hats and other Dogwood swag helped us to raise close to $1000, all of which will be 100% spent helping animals in need.

We are continually grateful for the support we receive from the community and love when we can engage and participate in such a fun event. Be sure to watch our calendar and follow us on Facebook to find out where we will be next.

Special thanks to Buzz Doughty and Doughty Enterprises for sponsoring our booth fees for this event. If you would like to learn more about planning an event for Dogwood or how to become a sponsor, please contact us. Additionally let us know if you would like to donate fabric or supplies to our volunteer team.