After relocating from Minnesota to Pickens County in 2021, Kari Rodgers knew she wanted to make a difference in her new community. In October 2025, she officially launched Pickens Paws and Purrs, a nonprofit animal rescue effort focused on giving abandoned and neglected pets a real opportunity for safety, care, and ultimately, love.
Rodgers has already secured an approval letter for 501(c)(3) nonprofit status and now searches for land and a building that can serve as a permanent home for the organization. Grants and community support, she says, will prove critical to turning the vision into reality.
“This wasn’t a quick decision or a ‘someday’ idea,” Rodgers explained. “It came from seeing, over and over, animals abandoned, neglected, dumped, and left without help simply because there aren’t enough resources in this area.”
According to Rodgers, the need across the county remains urgent and deeply personal.
“This county has a huge need, and I couldn’t keep looking away,” she said. “Starting this rescue is my way of stepping up for the animals who don’t have a voice — even when it’s overwhelming and honestly a little scary.”
Pickens Paws and Purrs plans to focus on intake from difficult situations, connecting animals with veterinary care, and working toward adoptions and foster placements. The long-term goal involves creating a facility the community can take pride in — a safe haven where every animal gets a fair chance at life.
Residents who want to support the mission can contribute financially through Venmo at @pickenspawsandpurrs. Donations will go toward food, vaccinations, spay and neuter services, and emergency medical treatment.
As Rodgers continues the search for property and funding opportunities, she hopes neighbors, businesses, and animal lovers will rally around the cause.
“Every dollar, every share, every conversation helps,” she said. “We can build something amazing for these animals together.”
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