MEETING HIGHLIGHTS

November 20
 
Our speaker was Kim Slaughter, Founder / CEO of Together Saving Paws - (TogetherSavingPaws.org). The 501(c)3 organization's mission is to partner with law enforcement and their K9 units, as well as human traffic/domestic abuse survivor aftercare programs across America.

There are thousands of human trafficking and exploitation victims in need of case management, basic therapy, and life skills therapy to help them recover from the ordeals they have experienced. In Arizona, several organizations provide aftercare support for survivors of human trafficking. Other states have similar organizations and needs. Working with law enforcement, Together Saving Paws also helps provide funding to supply ballistic vests to 'SWAT', 'Narcotic', and 'Bite' K9s. These officer K9s are a critical component of rescue operations. In 2022 alone, 25 police dogs had to die in the line of duty during dangerous operations. Their deaths could likely have been prevented if the dogs had been supplied with ballistic vests.

For more information on the organization and how you can help - 

https://www.TogetherSavingPaws.org

https://www.facebook.com/TogetherSavingPaws
 
 
November 13
 
Karen Joseph, founder of KIDS Kindness introduced us to KIDS Kindness, whose mission is to ignite the spirit of compassion, kindness and service within families and children. The organization strives to empower and inspire a positive impact on communities through volunteer work and by supporting local nonprofit organizations, events and projects.
 
 
 
November 6
 
Our speaker was Shawna Dorner, Marketing/Sponsorship Manager for Apache Junction Little League, along with her son Jaxsen. They spoke to the Club about the Apache Junction Little League team and Jaxsen spoke about challenges facing today's young people.

The Club presented Shawna and Jaxsen with a check for Little League. More funding from individuals and community groups is needed to help keep the team and organization vibrant and provide for needed items.
 
For more info about Apache Junction Little League -
https://www.AJLittleLeague.org
or
https://tshq.bluesombrero.com/Default.aspx?tabid=1857166
https://www.facebook.com/ajlittleleague/
The online store for 'fan wear' -
https://shop.bluesombrero.com/store/3252/home

Gail Johnson, the current Club Membership chairperson, spoke to the Club and shared some ideas about introducing more individuals to Rotary and membership.

A new Club member, Ruth Denny, was welcomed at the meeting. 

Additionally, AJ City Manager / Club member, Bryant Powell updated Club members about the election results of ballot items affecting our local area.