Earlyact Club Inspires Donation to Homeless Pets at YAPS

Earlyact Club Inspires Donation to Homeless Pets at YAPS

The 4th Grade Earlyact Club (sponsored by Yucaipa Rotary) at Wildwood Elementary started the 2019/2020 school year off strong by making a commitment to finish a project that began at the beginning of 2019. Earlyact was presented with an opportunity to select a nonprofit and take on a project from beginning to end. Through an endowment fund ear-marked for charity, a teacher at Wildwood Elementary would be able to match the funds raised.

Nonprofits were invited to present ideas to the Earlyact Club at the beginning of 2019. We understand that it was a tough decision for the students but in the end YAPS was selected and they chose “Project Fluffy” as the name. Students came to YAPS to tour the Holding Area and see exactly how they could help and what they were working towards. The Holding Area is where dogs spend 10-14 days after being rescued from local shelters before they are available for adoption.

The students sold crochet blankets and scarves made by a local citizen. They sold handmade dog/cat toys, dog/cat treats, posters and greeting cards at the school "Paw Shop," The Yucaipa Music and Arts Festival and at the Rotary Cash Draw Fundraising Dinner. They each personally raised a minimum of $25 on their own as well.

In May the students and their advisors came to deliver their donation to YAPS. They raised $2,500.00 on their own and received the matching donating for a total of $5,000.00. The students chose to have their donation go towards the “Sponsor a Kennel” Program at YAPS. These funds will be used to purchase at least 4 new 5’Wx10’L new, powder coated kennels for the YAPS Holding Area. 

The Earlyact Club is now working on two hand painted benches that will be placed in the large play yard at YAPS. This will create additional seating for potential adopters during dog meetings and for volunteers while they socialize with the dogs.

YAPS’ sincerely thanks the students and all who helped them make a significant difference for the homeless pets. The students have become the teacher’s by being an example of compassion to our community. They have inspired everyone at YAPS to save more lives.