What started as a high school senior project has grown into something far more meaningful for Glendale and the surrounding region, driven by one student’s determination to connect people, pets, and the resources that often go overlooked.
Alexandra Harper, a 17-year-old senior, FFA officer, and 4-H student, is bringing her vision to life with a Pet Resource Fair set for this Saturday, March 28 at the Glendale Depot. The event, scheduled from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. at 178 Glendale Town Road, is designed to bridge a gap she recognized early on.
“I decided to focus my FFA senior project on informing Glendale and surrounding communities of the many resources available to support their pets,” Harper explained. “Even though I thought about doing this event for all animals, I then decided to just focus on household pets because almost everyone has either a dog, a cat, or both.”
That decision reflects a practical understanding of her community. In rural Southern Oregon, pets are often more than companions. They are family, emotional support, and in many cases, a source of stability during difficult times. Yet access to care, supplies, and information is not always consistent or affordable.
Harper’s goal is clear and rooted in that reality. “My goal is to create a supportive community where we can share knowledge, resources, and the joy we have for our animals with each other.”
The event itself is structured to deliver exactly that. Attendees will be welcomed by participating sponsors and organizations, including Lincoln Road Veterinary Clinic, Soul to Soul Animal Sanctuary and Rescue, The Toby Fund Glendale Project, The Red Barn Feed Store, Brew Haven Coffee Shop, and Distinctive Designs. While supplies last, visitors will receive gift bags tailored for either dogs or cats, along with access to free items such as bowls, leashes, treats, toys, bandanas, and pet food.
“Upon arrival people will be greeted by some of our sponsors that will be there,” Harper said. “While supplies last each person will receive a gift bag with either dog or cat supplies. Other free items include pet bowls, leashes, treats, toys, bandanas, and food.”
Additional contributions from local businesses have expanded the reach of the event even further. Raffle items have been donated, with proceeds directed toward animal agencies to help offset care and adoption costs. Supporting organizations include Table Rock Boarding Kennels, Rodgers Feed Store, Red Dog Pet Supply, Saving Grace Humane Society, Doggy Stylz K9 Spa and Staycations, Home Away from Home Pet Spa, Tractor Supply Co., and others who have contributed resources, merchandise, and guidance.
Harper credits much of her ability to organize an event of this scale to her involvement in FFA. “Although my FFA animal is a horse, FFA involves much more. From this experience I have learned communication skills, time management, project documentation, organization, and public speaking,” she said. “The most important thing I learned is how kind and generous the businesses have been to pets and their owners in Douglas and Josephine Counties.”
The fair is open to anyone who owns a pet or is considering adopting one, with outreach efforts spanning from Roseburg to Grants Pass through social media and community flyers. While attendance numbers remain uncertain, interest has been steadily building.
“There have been numerous people respond to online posts, but we have no estimated attendance,” Harper said. “Even though I’m hoping for a large turnout, I know the people who do attend will benefit from what we have to offer.”
Behind the scenes, the project has not come without challenges. Harper acknowledged limited support from her local chapter but emphasized the role her family played in making the event possible.
“One challenge I experienced is lack of support from my chapter, but my parents were incredibly supportive. They drove everywhere to put up flyers and pick up donations. Thankfully my mom is the queen of organizing.”
For Harper, the project also represents something more personal. Living with autism has shaped her experience, but it has not defined her limits. In fact, she says this effort has changed how she sees herself.
“Having autism makes many tasks a challenge, but with all the positive feedback and support I’ve received I now feel like I can accomplish anything,” she said. “My mom always tells us we can succeed at anything that we set our minds to. After this experience, I finally believe her.”
That sense of purpose extends beyond the event itself. Harper is already thinking about the broader impact of her work and the role animals play in people’s lives, especially for those facing financial hardship.
“The support I’m asking for is for businesses and agencies to understand even people who can’t afford medical care for their pets,” she said. “Pets are wonderful for everyone. They provide comfort and unconditional acceptance. They help reduce stress better than medicine and even reduce high blood pressure. I think if everyone had a dog, cat, or other animal to care for, maybe they would have to spend less on medical bills. Everyone deserves love, comfort, and acceptance from the rich to the homeless.”
In a region where community efforts often define the strength of local support systems, Harper’s Pet Resource Fair stands as a reminder that meaningful change does not always start at the top. Sometimes, it begins with a single idea, backed by determination, and carried forward by someone willing to do the work.
