Fifth Annual ‘Pumpkins for Pets’ Delivers Community Support

The community spirit of Bay Village was on full display this past October 11th at Bay Village Middle School for the 5th Annual Pumpkins for Pets fundraiser. This beloved local event, which has grown into a significant charitable endeavor, began with a single, heartfelt mission: to give back to the shelter that rescued a very special dog named Quincy.

Five years ago, the event’s founder, Julee Alexy of Collective Home Group with Keller Williams Citywide, adopted Quincy from the Quincy Humane Society in Illinois. Quincy was one of hundreds of animals saved from a deplorable breeder operation. His story is particularly unique, having been born in Lithuania and shipped to the now-defunct breeder at 10 weeks old. His Lithuanian breeder, who follows her dogs’ lives closely, was able to identify Quincy through his European microchip and was elated when she learned of his rescue. After adopting him at three years old, Julee Alexy reached out to the Lithuanian breeder and received priceless photos of him as a pup, as well as his parents’ pictures and his registered papers. Quincy, now eight-and-a-half, is thriving, and it was this profound bond that inspired the creation of Pumpkins for Pets.

What started with just 40 pumpkins and a simple donation setup has blossomed into an event that provides 100 pumpkins and raises over $1,500 annually. The funds are now split between the Quincy Humane Society and For the Love of Bay Village Dogs.

Julee, who has lived in Bay Village for over 25 years, states that she “couldn’t imagine my life without him.” Quincy is now a neighborhood favorite, and the fundraiser has not only helped animals but has also created lasting relationships that allow Julee to connect with and assist residents with their real estate, lending, and interior design needs through her work.