By Maddie Summers ’27, staff writer and Chris Timasonravichkit ’27, video editor
Since its inception in 2025, Auggies Project has been regularly volunteering with Davis Dog Farm, a local rescue organization.
President Katelynn Hammel, a sophomore speech-language pathology major, founded the club last year with Vice President Dylan Knisely with the intent to spread awareness about adoption and volunteering.
“Our goal was just to expand and get people more aware of the aspects of rescuing a shelter dog or any type of dog and getting LVC students involved in the therapy of cleaning, helping and volunteering,” Hammel said.
Knisely said that the club helps students feel connected to their furry friends, whom they may be missing back at home.
“I feel like most people on campus have a pet at home that they miss,” he said. “That’s part of the reason why Katelynn and I came up with the idea for Auggies Project. We just missed our dogs so much, and I know a lot of people feel the same way. There are a lot of dogs that walk around campus, but that’s pretty much it; there aren’t any other clubs that do what we do.”
During these events, the group works with other volunteers to clean the facility and take the dogs outside for some exercise.
“Usually, what we do is we’ll come in, and we’ll clean all the kennels, deep clean, so scrub everything down, wash their beds and replace things,” Hammel said. “They’ll take the dogs out on their walks with other volunteers so they can come back to a clean reset area.”
Brenda Beegle, the building manager, explained the history behind Davis Dog Farm and its mission.
“Jenea Davis, the owner, has been fostering and working with rescues for 20 years,” she said. “She has a love of animals, a real big passion. Five years ago, she started this rescue. She started in the house, and we transitioned from the house to the building a year ago.”
Volunteer work is the lifeblood of Davis Dog Farm. They rely on participants to help take the dogs for walks, feed them and clean their kennels.
Jenn, a volunteer who started with the organization last year, spoke about her favorite part of volunteering and what makes it all worthwhile.
“Obviously, everyone’s favorite part is the dogs,” she said.”Loving the dogs, making sure they’re well taken care of, and getting a good home. It’s great for young people to see what’s being done in the community to help the animals.”
Hammel sees a bright future for the club and has hopes that its mission will continue long after she graduates.
“I hope to continue the club beyond me and Dylan being here,” she said. “I would like to graduate, eventually come back, and see that people are not only remembering Auggie, but their own animals. I hope the volunteering, the awareness, the events and the donations can continue beyond when we’re here. That would be amazing, and that’s my goal.”
Students interested in joining Auggies Project are encouraged to reach out to Katelynn Hammel or Dylan Knisely with questions.
If you would like to learn more about Davis Dog Farm or are interested in becoming a volunteer, visit their website at https://davisdogfarm.com/
Be the first to comment