Carlsbad, California – City of Carlsbad Mayor Keith Blackburn, a well-known advocate for animal welfare, issued a mayoral commendation today to Mr. and Mrs. Dennis and Sara Donnelly and their children, Callan and Lilly, for saving the life of Abe, a 10-week-old, rescued Bichon Frise mix.
Abe entered the Donnelly family’s life in May 2024 when Dennis and Sara agreed to foster the dog as part of the Carlsbad Educational Foundation’s (CEF) Gala to Benefit Students held on May 18, 2024.
CEF partnered with SPOT (Saving Pets One at a Time) Animal Rescue to find a permanent home for Abe and to raise funds during the gala’s live auction to support both nonprofit causes.
“We really love the foster family that cared for Abe, and then, when it happened to be the Donnelly’s that got him, we couldn’t ask for a better home,” said Faye Schultz, President of SPOT Animal Rescue.
Mayor Blackburn’s commendation recognized the Donnelly family’s commitment and love for Abe, thanking them on behalf of the City of Carlsbad.
“This act of kindness is an example of how everyone should respect and love all animals,” the commendation noted.
The Donnelly family has welcomed Abe warmly into their home. “We got a new loved one out of it,” said Sara Donnelly.
SPOT Animal Rescue’s mission is to save dogs and cats in shelters who are at risk of euthanization and to help other dogs and cats in need as well. A portion of the proceeds from the Donnelly’s winning bid will
be donated to the organization. For more information, visit SPOT Animal Rescue.
The CEF Gala to Benefit Students successfully raised $300,000 to fund critical programs in music, STEAM, and innovation.
About Carlsbad Educational Foundation
Carlsbad Educational Foundation (CEF) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that was founded in 1983, to raise private support for public education and contribute to the enrichment of nearly 11,000 students in the Carlsbad Unified School District. Since its inception, the foundation has awarded more than $16 million to Carlsbad public schools, primarily for science, technology, and music – programs that would not be possible in California’s current school funding environment. 100% of donations go directly to support the Carlsbad Unified School District because CEF’s operating expenses are covered by student enrichment programs and Kids Care, a comprehensive before and after-school K-5 childcare program. For more information, visit www.CarlsbadEd.org.
