Pioneer Paws
Pioneer Paws is a unique new program developed for William Paterson University students. This program was driven by the need to find sustainable help to feed feral cats around the community. We engaged students to be part of the solution by teaching them about the importance of spaying and neutering pets, Trap-Nueter-Return, and responsible Community Cat Colony Management.
What’s Up with those Cats?
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Pioneer Paws was expanded to bring together students who have a love for all animals and are interested in learning about protecting the welfare of companion, homeless, farm and wildlife animals. It also encourages good citizenship, teamwork and camaraderie to make a difference in their own lives, and of others, from what they learn by providing kindness and compassion to animals.
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Only Kindness Rescue provided a taste of the expanded Pioneer Paws program during the Spring 2020 semester. It was officially introduced to William Paterson University students at WPU Communiversity Day on Sept. 8, 2021. We welcomed more new participating students during WPU Pioneer Service Venture Day on Sept.11, 2021.
Community service projects and field trips to shelters/sanctuaries provide animal care experiences to students, and animal welfare service to their communities.
The Unbridled Heroes Project
Our program’s first field trip was to The Unbridled Heroes Project - a Veteran owned non-profit organization that combines rescued American Mustangs who have been severely abused and neglected with American Veteran Heroes to create a place of belonging an healing for both. FREE wellness programs are available for military Veterans.
Tamerlaine Farm Sanctuary Field Trip
This trip to volunteer was In honor of Earth Day to learn about conservation and preservation initiatives to protect farm animals, wildlife and the ecosystem; as well as the agricultural industry’s effects on environmental issues, animal welfare, and human rights!!! And of course.... there was plenty of time for our Kindness Kitty student volunteers to play with the goats and more rescued farm animals!!!
Giving Tuesday 2022
Talented Pioneer Paws volunteers shared their talent and passion with a virtual performance to thank our supporters who donated on Giving Tuesday to help the community cats they care for!
ARCHIVE
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Pioneer Paws is presented in partnership with Campus Activities, Service & Leadership, and the Office for Diversity and Inclusion at William Paterson University. Only Kindness Rescue has been approved as a non-profit for students to volunteer and receive credit in the Honors Program and towards the LEADS (Learn-Engage-Advocate-Develop-Serve) Digital Badges in Civic Engagement, Leaders in Action and Social Justice Leadership. Participating in WP LEADS is a great way for students to develop valuable skills and enhance their resume!
Pioneer Paws
Sponsored locally by
Lakeland Bank
Paw Support
With your help, we can continue to offer this program to
William Paterson University students for free.
Support us and make a tax deductible gift that helps provides food and medical care for
community cats, volunteer t-shirts and student incentives.
DONATE
Corporate Sponsorships Available
Your sponsorship will help cover the costs of speaker fees/donations, room and AV
rentals, field trip expenses and transportation, public figure appearances and civic
engagement projects. We even have a future goal for a scholarship award!
Artwork by Gaby R.