I started volunteering with Rescue Runners in 2023, and what began as a way to help shelter dogs has become something that has truly changed my life

Rescue Runners is a volunteer-powered nonprofit that helps shelter and rescue dogs across El Paso through Sunday walks, Doggy Day Outs, enrichment, foster and adoption support, special events, and community outreach.

Most of my volunteer work happens behind the camera and behind the scenes. I take photos, help with social media strategy, manage content, and tell the stories of the dogs we meet, especially the ones who need a little extra help being seen.

But somewhere along the way, Rescue Runners became much more than volunteer work to me. I’ve watched stressed and scared dogs completely transform once they get outside of their kennels. I’ve seen volunteers show up early on Sunday mornings just to give a dog a walk. I’ve watched people foster, adopt, donate, share posts, and step up for dogs they had never even met before.

And I’ve learned that you don’t have to save every dog to make a difference. Sometimes you walk one. Sometimes you take their picture. Sometimes you share their story. Sometimes you simply help give them one really good day.

Rescue Runners has given me a community, a purpose, and a way to use what I love doing to help animals who deserve so much more than life in a kennel.

This El Paso Giving Day, I’ve set a personal goal of raising $1,000 for Rescue Runners so we can keep showing up for the pups who need us. If you believe shelter dogs deserve someone in their corner, I would be so grateful for your support. Let’s keep making a difference together, one pup at a time. 🐾💙