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Volunteers at an adoption fair

Why We Started

Paws for a Cause is a teen-run nonprofit started July 16, 2025, in Okemos, MI, to champion animal welfare through adoption, fostering, education, and community outreach. Led entirely by high school juniors, it empowers youth to drive change—raising funds, hosting events, and improving animal lives one paw at a time.

Meet the Team Behind the Mission

Passionate youth leaders shaping a kinder world for animals.

Tejas Valisetty

Tejas Valisetty

President of Operations

Rithik Parthasarathy

Rithik Parthasarathy

President of Records

Vaibhav Mahesha

Vaibhav Mahesha

President of Outreach

Why We Started

We’re a small, youth‑led crew that launched in July 2025 after seeing how many pets are left to fend for themselves. Paws for a Cause exists to make animal care and adoption easier—and give teens a voice in that work.

2025Founded
3Teen Cofounders
Paws to Help

What We Stand For

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Compassion

We lead with empathy and care for animals and each other.

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Leadership

We empower youth to make a difference in their communities.

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Service

We support shelters, foster families, and new pet owners with dedication.