By: Abby Helmer ’28, staff writer
What began as one student’s tribute to her late dog has grown into a movement of compassion at LVC.
A new student-led initiative is making a compassionate mark on LVC’s campus. Auggies Project, founded by sophomore Katelynn Hammel, is a club dedicated to supporting local animal shelters and rescuing animals. Born out of love, loss and a desire to give back.
Hammel, a devoted animal lover, was inspired to start the club after noticing the number of dogs on campus and reflecting on her own connection to animal rescue.
“I kept seeing dogs around LVC, and it made me want to do something to give back,” Hammel, a speech language pathology major, said.
The name Auggies Project holds deep personal meaning. It honors Hammel’s late rescue dog, Auggie, a black German Shepherd and Great Dane mix whom she rescued during her younger years. Auggie passed away in 2022, but his memory lives on through the mission of the club.
To get the project off the ground, Hammel took the initiative to email her first-year companion professor to seek advice. From that first step, the club has grown into a passionate community of students eager to make a difference in the lives of animals in need.
“The main goal of Auggies Project is to create consistency in supporting local shelters,” Hammel said. “We want this club to last and to be passed down after I graduate. It’s about fundraising, volunteering and always finding new ways to help.”
Hammel hopes the club will continue long after her time at LVC, creating a lasting legacy of student engagement and community service.
“There’s no negative to giving back,” she said. “Even if you’re nervous about starting something new, just know there are always people out there who share your passion.”
Auggies Project is now actively recruiting new members, planning fundraisers, and seeking partnerships with shelters in the region. Students interested in joining can look forward to hands-on opportunities to support rescue animals, one paw at a time.
“If you care about something, there’s a good chance others do too,” Hammel said.