Abandoned Pet Rescue (APR) has launched a vital partnership with Arc Broward, allowing the Fort Lauderdale no-kill shelter to continue its mission of caring for abandoned animals while simultaneously creating empowering career opportunities for individuals with disabilities. This collaboration is timely, as APR has faced overwhelming challenges due to the current economy and housing crisis, which have led to a surge in owner surrenders. The Arc Broward program helps meet the growing demand for animal care, ensuring that pets continue to receive the attention they need.
The core of the partnership is Arc Broward’s animal care certificate program, which equips students with the practical skills needed to succeed in the veterinary industry. One example is former student Kobe Wilson, who has become an invaluable asset at the shelter, assisting with feeding, handling, and general animal care, despite his own physical challenges. The training provided at APR gives these students a wide range of transferable skills, allowing them to find subsequent employment at veterinary clinics, pet stores, or grooming facilities, proving that disabilities do not inhibit a person’s ability to achieve their career goals