Pups & Pumps Charity will host its first annual Community BBQ on Aug. 8, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the large pavilion at Chapel Hill Park, 3985 Lehigh Blvd.
The free, family-friendly event will bring together neighbors, local supporters and animal lovers for an afternoon of food, games and community engagement while raising awareness for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
Pups and Pumps Co-Founder Bodae Vogt told Rough Draft that the organization has partnered with Lifeline Animal Project to provide free vaccinations for the first 50 animals whose owners register for the event.
Pups & Pumps Charity is a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing dogs from local shelters, providing them with specialized training, and placing them with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault at no cost to the recipient, according to organizers.
Through the trained companion dogs, survivors receive emotional support, comfort, and companionship as they rebuild their lives after trauma, according to the event announcement.
“Our goal is to create healing on both ends of the leash,” the organization’s founders said in a statement. “Every rescued dog deserves a second chance, and every survivor deserves hope, support and the opportunity to move forward with strength.”
The BBQ event is one of several organized by Pups and Pumps.
DeKalb County Super District 7 Commissioner Dr. LaDena Bolton, along with Pups and Pumps, held its first-ever “Bark & Chill” Community and Pet Ice Cream Social in Tucker last October, leading to the adoption of at least one shelter dog.
The BBQ on Aug. 8 will include activities for all ages, including complimentary food and refreshments, family-friendly games, pony rides, bounce houses, pet-friendly activities and water stations for dogs.
Guests are encouraged to bring well-behaved, leashed dogs. Parking and directional signage will be available throughout the park.
Organizers said community members interested in volunteer opportunities, sponsorships, or future events are encouraged to attend. For more information, email pupsandpumps@gmail.com or 404-680-0014.
