What is Desert Paws?
Desert Paws is a new and unique non-profit organization to benefit homeless, abandoned or needy animals here in the Coachella Valley. We function as a foundation, raising money to help other established animal welfare groups (local shelter and other non profit organizations) and individuals in the area.  

HOW EXACTLY WILL YOUR HELP BE GIVEN?
We have set up a specific procedure for other animal welfare groups to follow in order to request funding.  We provide them an application form to be completed that details the purpose for the money requested.  Upon receipt of the application, an investigative committee will visit the applicant to confirm the need, and finally, the request will be presented by the investigative committee to the board of directors for approval.

How did it Get Started/HISTORY
Dr. Lori Kirshner, an Ophthalmologist here, founded Desert Paws in Palm Springs.  A lifelong animal lover, Lori has personally rescued many stray dogs and cats over the years, and has seen first hand what cruelty and neglect has done to innocent animals.  Her visits to animal shelters proved to be depressing beyond belief, when she realized that there were thousands of animals in pounds and shelters nationwide being euthanized every day.  The final blow came when she heard some baby kittens crying and found them tied inside a trash bag in a dumpster!  She was moved to action and in the year 2000, formed a group to help her start her “first annual” Desert Paws 5k Winter Run Palm Springs to raise money to help local animal welfare groups.  Thanks to the generosity of local citizens, Lori’s fund raising proved to be such a success that she decided to turn Desert Paws into her own non - profit 501© 3 organization and to continue to raise money to give to those who help local animals in need.

Who Runs the Organization?
Desert Paws operates under the authority of our board of directors.  The Founder and Chairman of the Board is Lori Kirshner, M.D.   The other board members include Peter Spiegel, M.D., Hal Ball and the entertainer, Barry Manilow.  In addition the organization has many volunteers that help out with our fundraisers, mailings and paperwork.  After paying minimum operating expenses, all money goes directly to help the animals.

What do we hope to Accomplish? / Mission Statement
Our mission statement says it all:  “Making a difference in the lives of animals in need.”

We will accomplish this goal by raising money through fundraising, donations and memberships and turning it over to worthy and eligible groups who’s goals and purpose are compatible with our own.  In this way we intend to help ease the pain and suffering of every animal possible, and to improve their chances to live safe and healthy lives.