Starting From Scratch — Challenges & Wins as a One-Woman Grassroots Wolfdog Rescue
Hi everyone! I’m Leah, and I recently launched Cavalli’s Husky & Wolfdog Rescue, a grassroots 501(c)(3) based in Colorado. After 8+ years of fostering, transporting, and volunteering with various rescues, I finally took the leap and started my own—focused on saving Huskies and wolfdogs, who are so often misunderstood and passed over.
I just got PACFA licensed this month and am building the rescue quite literally from the ground up—no funding, no fosters yet, and no staff. It’s just me for now. I'm operating out of my own property and working on building the first enclosure, while still fostering for local shelters to keep helping however I can.
One question I’d love insight on: What creative or lesser-known funding sources (grants, programs, partnerships) have helped your rescue during the very early stages—especially before hitting the 1-year 501(c)(3) mark?
I know many grants require 1-3 years of operating history, so I’d love to hear from others who have navigated that early-phase hustle. Also open to tips on building community trust and engagement when starting from scratch!
Looking forward to learning from all of you. 💛
cavallisrescue.org
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Leah Collingwood
President and ED
Cavalli's Husky and Wolfdog Rescue
CO
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