The City of Cañon City celebrates Public Employees Recognition Week, the first full week in May every year.  For the fifth year in a row, part of that celebration includes a Give Back Day to a non-profit organization.  This year, JJ’s Helping Paws was selected to be the recipient of the donations given by City of Cañon City employees.

May 6 was the deadline for contributions, and the following items were donated:

Wet Cat Food – 389 cans, Lickable Cat Treats – 295, Cat Toys – 29, Tote Bins – 7, Brushes – 2, Pet Beds – 2, Dog Treats – 3 boxes, Canned Dog Food – 171 cans, Dog Food Pouches – 228, Dry Dog Food – 150 pounds, totaling 1,155 donated items given to this deserving non-profit agency.

JJ’s Helping Paws began in 2014 with the first low-cost spay/neuter program for dogs and cats in Fremont County.  Since its inception, JJ’s has added Molly’s Place, which is a rescue shelter for cats, feral cat colony management, the Uber Kitty Program, and the Senior to Senior Roomies Program.

JJ’s is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization that runs entirely on small grants, private donations, and fundraising events.  Volunteers are always needed, and right now, donations of wet cat food are a significant need.

To learn more about JJ’s Helping Paws, you can go to their website at jjshelpingpaws.org or contact them by calling 719-315-1665.

Direct link to donate is: https://jjshelpingpaws.org/donate

Chewy Wish List: https://www.chewy.com/g/jjs-helping-paws-inc_b73588483

Join the Royal Gorge Regional Museum & History Center from 9 to 11:30 a.m. June 6 for a “Hike with a Paleontologist” as we head into the field with guest expert Lucas Hoff. As a hydrologist and professor of geology and paleontology, Lucas brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to this unique experience.

The hike will include stops along the trail where participants will learn about aspects of this area’s fascinating paleontological history.

This moderately challenging hike covers approximately 2.5 miles and includes some elevation gain, as well as sections of steep and uneven terrain. The hike is estimated to last 2.5 hours. Participants should bring their own water, snacks, and weather-appropriate clothing and footwear.

This is free and open to the public, ages 12 and up. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required, and space is limited.

Exact meeting location and additional event details will be provided after registration.

To register, visit canoncity.gov/museum, find the event on our calendar and follow the prompts.