At Cruelty Free Consumer, our commitment to fostering compassionate animal loving communities is at the heart of everything we do. This year, we are incredibly proud to sponsor the inaugural Pack Parade, a fundraising event celebrating the incredible Brighton Pack of Dogs. A portion of this month’s sales will be going directly to the Brighton Pack of Dogs, and Cruelty Free Consumer will be participating at the Pack Parade this year! We want our Cruelty Free Community to join us either in person or in spirit on Saturday, June 15, at Brighton High School for a day of joy, community spirit, and support for a cause that touches the lives of many. Get to know a little more about why this cause is important to Julie, the Founder of Cruelty Free Consumer, and what Brighton Pack of Dogs is all about below!.
A Brighton Native & Compassionate Cruelty Free Advocate
Julie Kirk, who founded Cruelty Free Consumer, grew up in Brighton. Julie has always dreamed about creating a compassionate community for both animals and humans. Her deep-rooted love for animals and dedication to ethical practices inspired the creation of Cruelty Free Consumer. Supporting the Brighton Pack of Dogs through the Pack Parade aligns perfectly with our mission to promote kindness and care within our communities – especially during hard times.
Through her leadership, Cruelty Free Consumer has become a gentle, consistent advocate for cruelty-free products and practices, ensuring that consumers have stress free access to things that align with their caring lifestyle. Her unwavering commitment to animal welfare continues to drive our initiatives and sponsorships, like the Pack Parade, that aim to make a positive impact in the world.
The Brighton Pack of Dogs: Heroes on Four Legs
Under the visionary leadership of founder Karen Storey, the Brighton Pack of Dogs has become a beacon of hope and healing for children and adults in the communities of Southeastern and Mid-Michigan. These remarkable canines, formally known as social-emotional learning dogs, serve as therapy dogs bringing comfort and joy wherever they go.
The Pack of Dogs made an unforgettable and essential impact in the Oxford School District two years ago following the tragic shooting at Oxford High School. As the first therapy dogs on the scene, they provided much-needed comfort and consolation to the students and faculty, showcasing their extraordinary ability to support emotional recovery during times of tragedy and crisis. Their work doesn’t stop there. The Pack of Dogs continues to bring comfort, reassurance, and happiness to the Brighton Area Schools, making a difference in the community every single day.
Though Karen Storey retired last May, the program continues to thrive under the capable hands of Kaitlyn Lipinski and Rochelle Baxter. With 14 therapy dogs and two more in training, the program is stronger than ever, providing invaluable support to the students and teachers in the district.
The Pack Parade: Walk for a Cause
The Pack Parade is more than just a walk; it’s a community celebration and a fundraiser with a goal to raise $25,000 to support the Brighton Pack of Dogs. Starting at 8am in the Brighton High School parking lot, the one-mile walk will take participants from Brighton Mill Pond to the BHS football field. The event will feature food trucks, yard games, basket raffles, and more, ensuring a fun-filled day for the entire family.
The funds raised will help cover the operational costs of the program, including the training of new therapy dogs and the annual expenses for each dog in the pack.
How You Can Be a Part of the Pack of Dogs
If you’re not a Michigan local, then you can join in by shopping on our website for amazing cruelty free products for home, baby, self care, and more. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Brighton Pack of Dogs.
We invite everyone who is local or willing to come out and support the Brighton Pack of Dogs at the Pack Parade. Whether you’re walking with your furry friend, enjoying the festivities, or contributing to the fundraiser, your participation will help ensure that these amazing therapy dogs can continue to provide comfort and joy to those who need it most.
Together, we can make a difference. See you at the Pack Parade on June 15!
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