Paw Print Fundraiser to benefit Atchafalaya River Rescue

A creative fundraiser aimed at supporting local animal rescue efforts will take place later this month as Atchafalaya River Rescue, Inc. hosts a Paw Print Stepping Stone event at Alysian Art.

Scheduled for Saturday, April 25 at 10 a.m., the hands-on workshop will be held at 264 JJ Lane in Marksville and will give participants the opportunity to create their own custom paw print stepping stone.

The event will be led by local artist Donna Jane LaBorde, who has prepared hand-cut stained glass pieces for attendees to use in designing a one-of-a-kind concrete piece for their home or garden. All materials and instruction will be provided.

The cost to participate is $30, and organizers say the workshop is suitable for all ages, with limited seating available.

Atchafalaya River Rescue, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Simmesport, will receive 100 percent of the proceeds from the fundraiser. The organization relies on community support to continue its work caring for and placing animals in need.

Organizers say the event comes at a critical time, as the rescue is currently closed to new animal intake due to overwhelming demand. The group emphasized that it is not a shelter and does not operate a facility. Instead, every animal is cared for in private homes or by a small network of foster volunteers, all of whom are currently at capacity.

Rescue representatives noted that Avoyelles Parish continues to face a significant pet overpopulation issue, with no public animal shelter, animal control system or affordable spay and neuter program available locally. As a result, the need for assistance often exceeds what the small, volunteer-based organization can manage.

Despite those challenges, the group remains committed to helping as many animals as possible while advocating for long-term solutions. Organizers say community support through events like this fundraiser plays a vital role in sustaining their efforts.

The fundraiser offers residents a chance to create something meaningful while directly supporting local rescue work.

For more information or to reserve a spot, contact linda@atchafalayariverrescue.com.