PAWKids

Impact

Luke and Graydon chose PAWKids because of the deep, relational impact they have witnessed firsthand in the Grove Park community. PAWKids is more than a nonprofit — it is a trusted community anchor, built on long-standing relationships and a commitment to serving both children and seniors with dignity and care.

Through after-school programs, food distribution, and consistent outreach, PAWKids supports families holistically — addressing physical needs, emotional well-being, and long-term stability. Their work preserves the intergenerational fabric of the community, ensuring that children grow up surrounded by the wisdom and presence of long-time residents.

For Luke and Graydon, this mission is deeply personal. Their experiences serving and building relationships through PAWKids have given them a greater appreciation for both the needs and the strength of the community they are working to support.

How the Grant Would Help

This $15,000 grant will directly support seniors in Grove Park who are facing increasing cost-of-living pressures. Funding will provide weekly food boxes and hygiene supplies to approximately 15 seniors living on fixed incomes, helping them cover essential needs while preserving limited financial resources for housing, utilities, and medical expenses.

In addition, a portion of the grant will strengthen PAWKids’ Mercy Fund, which provides emergency assistance for critical home repairs such as roof leaks, broken water heaters, and HVAC failures. This support helps prevent displacement, fines, and unsafe living conditions for vulnerable residents.

By addressing both immediate needs and urgent emergencies, this grant will allow PAWKids to protect housing stability, preserve community continuity, and expand their impact as a comprehensive support system for families and seniors alike.

Student Involvement

Graydon has been actively involved with PAWKids for over a year and a half, beginning with participation on the organization’s Youth Impact Leader Board. Through this role, he helped lead an awareness walk from Buckhead to Bankhead and raised $1,500 to support PAWKids’ after-school programming.

He has continued his support by donating 15% of the profits from his outdoor services business to PAWKids, contributing ongoing financial support even beyond his hands-on involvement.

Luke was introduced to PAWKids through Graydon and quickly became involved through direct service, including distributing food and hygiene supplies to seniors. His experiences have strengthened his connection to the mission and deepened his desire to support the organization’s work.

Together, their involvement reflects both leadership and initiative — combining service, fundraising, and advocacy to support a community they care deeply about.