Middleton High School students have launched Paws for a Purpose, a student-led club aimed at supporting local animal shelters and encouraging greater community involvement, according to an April 28 announcement.
The initiative was started by senior Olivia Jackman after she noticed the needs of local shelters while searching for a new family pet. “I started Paws for a Purpose because one personal loss helped me recognize a much larger need,” Jackman said. She described seeing donation bins and help wanted signs during her visits, adding, “It was clear that these organizations were filled with compassion, but often lacked the support they needed.”
Jackman said she saw potential among her peers as well. “The willingness was there, but what was missing was direction,” she said. The club now connects interested students with opportunities such as volunteering, donations, fundraising and awareness campaigns. Members shared in a joint statement: “We believe every animal deserves safety, care, and the opportunity to find a loving home. Many shelter animals come from difficult situations such as abandonment, neglect, or abuse, and they depend on the compassion of others for a second chance at life.”
Paws for a Purpose partners with several organizations including Dane County Humane Society and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals’ youth division PETA2. Club members have organized projects like making tug toys from used T-shirts and tie blankets from fleece fabric. Herah Lee, head of social media for the club, said: “So far we have hosted volunteer events to make tug toys for dogs out of used T-shirts and tie blankets for cats out of fleece. Through these efforts we aim to meet both the needs of shelters and encourage involvement from volunteers.” Vice President Shachi Naswa added: “My favorite part of Paws for a Purpose is seeing the positive change that we can bring to the community… Volunteering for animal shelters comforts them and brings them love.”
About 30 students are expected to participate next year under guidance from social studies teacher Callie Geissler. Plans include expanding partnerships and increasing donation drives.
According to the official website, Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District promotes community engagement through extracurricular activities like this one while also maintaining facilities that support education from early childhood through high school with an emphasis on literacy, math and social-emotional learning. The district has achieved high ACT composite scores among public non-charter schools in Dane County. Dr. Dana Monogue served as superintendent. The district serves Middleton and Cross Plains area in Wisconsin.
Looking ahead at their goals Jackman said: “Our goals are to continue expanding community involvement and increasing the impact of our service efforts… We hope to organize donation drives fundraising opportunities and awareness campaigns that allow even more people to contribute.” Students or community members interested in getting involved can follow @paws.forapurposewi on Instagram.
