MILLIE’S MISSION

from Rochester Woman Online Mar/Apr 2023

SOUND BATHS

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background.

My name is Katie Walter and I am 26 years old, and my fiance’s name is Josh Patti and he is 25 years old. We have been together since September of 2014, and are getting married in September of this year (2023)! I work as a Payroll/ Billing Specialist at a homecare agency in Auburn, NY. Josh owns his own trucking company, and travels to Massachusetts everyday! Josh and I are huge animal lovers, and enjoy spending much of our free time together with our 2 dogs, Buddy and Sadie.

What is Milly’s Mission and how did it get started?

Milly’s Mission is a fund that we started through Rochester Hope for Pets in December of 2021. All proceeds go directly to individuals who are in need of financial assistance for their dogs’ life saving emergency treatments. Josh and I lost our dog Milly back in May of 2021 to liver failure. Milly was only 16 months old, and to our knowledge had much more life to live. When we brought Milly to VSES in Rochester, NY, on 5/20/21 we were told after a couple of days and multiple tests that Milly was showing many signs of liver failure. We were given the option to try everything on 5/22/21 as one last strong effort, but unfortunately it was Milly’s time, and she passed on 5/23/21. After she passed Josh and I had many conversations about the cost of everything, and how we had to continue to pay Milly’s bill even after she was gone. That was extremely challenging for us, as it was a constant reminder of what Milly went through.

Josh asked me one night, “What do you think people do if they get the option to potentially save their dog, but they don’t have the funds to do so? Do they have to euthanize them even if they may be able to live many more years as a healthy dog?” That question stuck with both of us, so we decided to call VSES and ask them about it. VSES directed us to Rochester Hope for Pets, which is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, established in 2008, funded by the generosity of private donors. RHFP offers financial assistance toward veterinary care costs to pet owners during times of need through many different funds. That is how we started Milly’s Mission.

It is truly our mission to prevent others from going through unnecessary tragedy, and take away as much of the financial burden as we possibly can.

What is the goal of your organization? Our goal for Milly’s Mission is to continue to help as many families and their dogs through their tough times, and change their lives in such a positive way. We hope to inspire people to help others in their time of need, and show those who may not understand that they aren’t “just dogs”. To many, their dogs are a part of their family. To some, their dogs are the only family that they have.

Who are some of the strong men/ women that you feel have inspired you and your mission?

How did the Name of Milly’s Mission come about?

We chose the name Milly’s Mission because we wanted Milly’s name and her story to live on through all of the dogs and people we will be able to help.

Our parents have been there to support and encourage us since we lost Milly, I’m not sure if we would’ve thought this was possible without them reassuring us everyday. Another person that has inspired us is Krista Brown, the Coordinator from Rochester Hope for Pets. Ever since our first meeting with Krista, she has worked so hard to help us get Milly’s Mission started. Krista goes above and beyond everyday to help as many people and their animals as she possibly can. She is truly amazing!

Tell us about one story that has impacted your organization for the better. The first time we were able to assist an individual with the cost of their dog’s emergency care was something we will never forget! Being able to share that with all of our supporters was very exciting,

What do you THINK people do if they get the option to potentially save their DOG, but they don’t have the funds to do so? Do they have to euthanize them even if they may be able to live many more years as a HEALTHY dog? ”

“Milly’s Mission is a fund that we started through Rochester Hope for Pets in December of 2021. All proceeds go directly to individuals who are in need of financial assistance for their dogs’ life saving emergency treatments.” for us and for the people who donated to Milly’s Mission.

What has been your biggest hurdle since starting Milly’s Mission?

Our biggest hurdle is definitely trying to keep up with the applications for assistance that come in. We never want to be in a position where we are not able to help someone in need, but because we are so new to this it has been challenging to come up with ways and ideas to keep available funds in the Milly’s Mission account at all times.

Tell us about some of your goals and dreams for the organization. We would like to grow as much as we can in order to help as many dogs as possible! We would like to get to a point where we are able to not only assist with the final cost, but pay the entire bill for the dogs and their owners!

What is one thing people don’t know about Milly’s?

Not only does Milly’s Mission assist others with funds for their pets injuries and illnesses, but from the feedback that we have been receiving, it has also been a huge emotional and mental health support for families dealing with this type of trauma. I know it helps us with the loss of Milly everytime we are able to help others!

How do you decide which vet bills to help with? It there a process you follow?

If someone reaches out directly to the Milly’s Mission facebook page, we will direct them to the website link to submit an application for assistance. From there it will be reviewed by the board, and they will check all accounts with Rochester Hope for Pets to determine which fund the animal in need qualifies for. If it is a life threatening treatment, Krista will reach out to us and explain the situation, as well as the total cost of the treatment. Josh and I will go over everything and determine what we are able to donate from Milly’s Mission.

What is one piece of advice you have been given that you have never forgotten?

“Whenever you feel discouraged, think back to the beginning of this process and where it is now. The harder you push, the more good you can do for those who need it.”

What’s the most important risk you have ever taken? Would you do it again?

For us, the very beginning of this process felt like the biggest risk. We didn’t know what kind of response we would get. It’s hard when such strong emotions are involved, and you are so passionate about something, it just makes you want to succeed that much more. Josh and I really let our guard down when we started Milly’s Mission, we wanted to make sure we were as honest and transparent as we could, so that others felt comfortable enough to come to us for help if they needed it. We would absolutely do it again, this is something that has helped us more than anyone will ever know.

How do you get funds built up for the organization? What has been the best fundraiser you have ever done and why?

We receive donations randomly throughout the year, but our main source of funds comes from our annual Trucks for Pups Truck Show. Our first show was in August of 2022, and we were able to raise $16,500 for Milly’s Mission. This has helped tremendously with all of the applications for assistance that we receive regularly.

What is your favorite vs worst thing about what you are do?

Our favorite thing about what we do is the responses we have received from the families and individuals we have been able to financially assist. We love when they send us updated pictures of their dogs making progress with their healing journeys, it is an amazing feeling! The worst thing about what we do is not being able to assist everyone who sends in an application for assistance. It is extremely hard when we do not have the available funds in the Milly’s Mission account, yet there are dogs and people who desperately need the help.

Knowing what you know now, is there anything you would have done differently when you were first starting the organization?

We love the learning process with Milly’s Mission, it has taught us so much. We can confidently say we would not change a single thing, we are grateful for all of it. It has been an absolute privilege working with Rochester Hope for Pets!

What do you feel is most important about the work you do?

Providing the financial assistance that families desperately need in order to save their beloved dogs.

What do you think is the biggest problem facing rescues today, and how do you feel you might be able to provide a solution for it?

Many people don’t know where they can go to receive financial assistance when it comes to their pets. So, marketing and communication would be the biggest shortfall in getting the message out there.

Where will we see you next? Tell us how and where people can donate if they would like to help. Our 2nd Annual Trucks for Pups Truck Show is on 8/19/23 at the Fingerlakes Mall in Auburn, NY! The show starts at 10am and will end around 11pm after the light show! There will be live music, great food, awesome vendors, and of course a bunch of adorable dogs! If you would like to donate you can always visit our website - https://rochesterhopeforpets. org/millys-mission/ and click the “donate” button and type “Milly’s Mission” under the “Specify here” box. We truly appreciate anyone who is willing to support this cause, none of this would be possible without you!

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background.

My name is Ronieka Burns and I am a proud mother of 3 and Nana of 1. Inspired by their lives, I serve as a community activist and organizer which has led me to the path of becoming the CEO/Founder of Beautifully Made, 2017 (Nonprofit) and You are Beautifully Made LLC 2020. I currently work for 1199SEIU Training and Education Fund. I am a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. I hold my Associates degree in Respiratory Therapy (Genesee Community College) and a Bachelors in Women and Gender studies & African American Studies (SUNY Brockport). I serve on the Workforce Diversity Network, Coalition of the Black Trade Unionist, Childcare Council and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. Executive Boards. I’m also an elective member of NYS Working Families Party.

What made you create You Are Beautifully Made?

My personal reason for creating You are Beautifully Made is because at the age of 13 my daughter was diagnosed with multiple mental illnesses, and it shook our lives. With limited resources and support within my community it made it hard to navigate the system. After getting some knowledge of the mental health world I swore to myself that I will create a support system to eliminate any mother and daughter to go through the same things we went through.

You are Beautifully Made LLC., It was created to push the message and bring awareness of mental illnesses and relationship building between mothers and daughters. Letting women and girls know that no matter what you are going through or went through in life, you are still Beautifully Made. She hosts workshops, retreats, conferences, bonding trips, seminars, panels, public speaking and more to

Our mission is to aid in the development of confidence within young women and mothers in the community. There is a low number of programs or events provided to assist mothers and daughters, who are often dealing with self-esteem and mental health issues. You Are Beautifully Made and Beautifully Made’s mission is to address the need for a more holistic approach by providing workshops, retreats, awareness, and support. We also sell merchandise to push the message of our brand.

Who are some of the strong women that you feel have inspired you?

Inez Burns

Dr. Tokeya Graham

Fannie Lou Hamer

help mothers and daughters improve their relationship. We bring resources to the community.

What makes you hustle? What does the word “hustle” mean to you?

Making an impact in the community makes me hustle. Knowing that I can leave the world a better place gives me hope. Hustle to me means to not be afraid to get the work done, stay focused, and not forget the main purpose of why.

What is the mission behind your business? How did you come up with the name for your business?

What would you consider your specialty? What do people know you for?

Meeting people where they are and providing resources to the community. Being resourceful and aware of the community’s needs. I’m also known for planning and executing great events.

Where has been your favorite place to visit and why?

I love going to parks and laying under a tree to relax. It’s a form of self-care for me.

What are some of the pros and cons of owning your own business?

A pro is being able to execute your own plan, at your own pace. A con can leave the world a better place gives me hope.” is not having full support on projects you have a personal vision for.

If you could do one thing you have never done what would it be and why?

I would love to Skydive; I think it will be a great way to release everything I’m holding inside.

What is one piece of advice you have been given that you have never forgotten?

Everything you work hard for is worth having.

What’s the most important risk you have ever taken? Would you do it again?

Starting a business was a big risk for me but I would do it all over again without thinking.

How do you continue to constantly grow both personally and professionally? What are some secrets to your success?

I love learning new things. Learning is my key to success. I think we must stay relevant in order to make changes. This goes for personal and professional.

What is your favorite thing about what you doing and being a woman entrepreneur?

My favorite thing to witness is the smiles and laughs between the mothers and daughters at my business events. Nothing is taken for granted and every moment counts. Knowing I can make a difference is important to me.

Knowing what you know now, is there anything you would have done differently when you were first starting out?

I would have researched the different aspects of running a business and I also would have connected with other entrepreneurs for mentorship.

What do you feel makes your business unique and sets you apart from the competition?

You are Beautifully Made LLC. Is the only organization in Monroe County that only caters to women and girls. Our expertise is relationship building, coping mechanisms, and mental health. All these topics allow a platform to digest and grow.