Story + Mission
OUR STORY
Julia Correll, our President and Cofounder, created the DesertDogProject Instagram account in February of 2023, when she moved from Philadelphia to Maricopa County with hopes of continuing her advocacy work with shelter dogs. As a longtime volunteer at the Philadelphia public shelter, she was eager to provide the homeless dogs of Maricopa County with a platform to connect with potential adopters.
Through volunteering & fostering, she met Halle Kearney and Courtney Agar, who began helping in her efforts to rescue more dogs. As she continued to post about urgent dogs with upcoming euthanasia deadlines, often for treatable medical reasons, she began to receive offers for pledges and questions on how followers could donate to help. Since then, DDP has been involved in the fundraising for dozens of dogs that would not have made it out of the shelter alive if it wasn’t for the amazing, kind, and generous followers who have rallied together and constantly shown up for the dogs of Maricopa County through donations and sharing their stories.
OUR INSPIRATION: WARLOCK
The inspiration to transform Desert Dog Project into a nonprofit all began with a dog named Warlock - you may notice him in our logo! He was a dog that stole our hearts—a sweet, 2 year old pittie mix battling illness with unwavering resilience. Despite his ailing state, there was a quiet strength in his eyes, a silent plea for aid that tugged at our heartstrings.
Warlock had undergone a drastic weight loss and we knew we had to take action. The urgency to save him fueled a whirlwind of efforts—to secure a rescue spot, gather funds for medical care, and provide him with the chance he deserved.
Unfortunately, getting all of these aspects to secure his health and care took time, which we were so desperately at battle with as his condition worsened. By the time rescue spot and funds were secured, it was too late. Warlock passed away on his very first night in a foster home, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts.
That heartbreaking loss became the catalyst for change. We refused to let Warlock's story be in vain. Then we thought: what if we could lessen the time it takes to get a sick dog out of the shelter by providing the funds needed to take on their medical care, often the hardest and most time consuming obstacle? The pain of losing him birthed a mission—a nonprofit dedicated to providing grants to pay for medical care to shelter dogs in need.
OUR MISSION
Desert Dog Project stands as a beacon of hope for the sick and voiceless dogs we encounter in the shelter daily, ensuring they receive the care they require for their well deserved shot at a joyful, fulfilling life. No dog should face the same fate as Warlock, unable to advocate for themselves, deprived of the opportunity for a happy ending.
This is our commitment—to be the guardians, the advocates, and the driving force behind a brighter future for the dogs in need in Maricopa County. Through our collective efforts, we aim to rewrite their stories, offering them the love, medical care, and chance at a furever home they rightfully deserve.
We are so grateful to our amazing dog advocacy followers that have allowed us to save many dogs so far, and we look forward to continuing to cultivate and grow a true community through DDP. We are a 501(c)(3) approved charity, so all donations are tax deductible. Thank you for continuing to support our mission.
