Uniting for a Pawsitive Future: How PACC911 is Transforming Animal Rescue Across Arizona
In the world of animal rescue, collaboration is key, and few do it better than PACC911, the Phoenix Animal Care Coalition. More than just a shelter, PACC911 unites over 140 rescue organizations throughout Arizona. They provide essential support, resources, and a shared mission to save and improve the lives of as many animals as possible.
In a recent interview for The Public Pulse on 88.7 The Pulse, Michael Mallace spoke with Michon Javalosa, Director of PACC911, about the coalition’s unique mission and wide-ranging impact on Arizona’s animal rescue landscape.
“We like to say we’re uniting the rescue community,” said Javalosa. “Because we support them with much-needed pieces to make them successful and able to take in more animals.”
The Power of Partnership
PACC911 isn’t a rescue in the traditional sense. Instead, it empowers smaller foster-based rescues with programs and funding that allow them to take in animals they might otherwise turn away. At the heart of this effort is PACC911’s Critical Care Program, which covers medical expenses for animals needing costly treatment, including dental work, surgeries, and emergency care.
Thanks to this program, over 1,800 animals received life-saving medical care in 2024 alone. These are animals that might not have had a chance otherwise. “Rescues often have to say no because they can’t afford the care,” said Javalosa. “But with our help, they can say yes.”
More Than Medical Support
PACC911 also runs a range of community-focused programs, including:
- Adopt-a-thons that bring together multiple rescue groups and connect pets with loving homes
- The Chuck Wagon Program, a pet food pantry for families facing financial hardship
- The Mercy Care Program, which temporarily fosters pets for individuals who are hospitalized under Mercy Care. This ensures pets and people can reunite when they recover
For shoppers who want to give back, PACC911 operates Rescued Treasures, a boutique-style thrift store located at the southwest corner of 40th Street and Thunderbird in Phoenix, where proceeds directly support their programs.
A Mission Built on Compassion
Founded more than 25 years ago by animal advocate Bari Mears, PACC911 was created to fill a critical gap. It gives small, grassroots rescues the resources and coordination they need to thrive. With no paid staff and a volunteer-powered model, the organization operates from a place of love and commitment to animals.
In 2024, PACC911’s coalition partners collectively rescued over 32,100 animals, showcasing just how powerful community collaboration can be.
How You Can Help
Whether you’re an animal lover looking to help or part of a rescue seeking support, PACC911 offers many ways to get involved:
- Visit pacc911.org to volunteer, foster, or donate
- Support their biggest annual fundraiser: the Glimmer of Hope Luncheon, set for November 16 at Camelback Inn. The event features a raffle for a 2025 Toyota 4Runner or $25,000 cash. Tickets are $100 each or three for $250. Every dollar goes directly to the Critical Care Program
- Follow PACC911 on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube by searching for PACC911 to stay updated on events, adoptions, and more
PACC911 operates with a no-kill philosophy. Euthanasia is only considered in cases of irredeemable suffering. They believe every animal is adoptable and offer “fospice care”, a form of loving end-of-life support for terminal animals to ensure their final days are filled with compassion.
Join the Movement
“Whatever you are called to do, whatever you have a passion for… Please, please do something,” Javalosa urged. By getting involved with PACC911, whether by fostering, donating, or spreading the word, you become part of a movement dedicated to giving Arizona’s animals the second chances they deserve.
📻 This story is based on an interview conducted by Michael Mallace with Michon Javalosa, Director of PACC911, for The Public Pulse on 88.7 The Pulse. Listen to the interview here.
🕖 You can catch The Public Pulse every Sunday morning at 7 a.m. MST on 88.7 FM The Pulse, streaming live at 887thepulse.com, on our mobile app 88.7 The Pulse AZ, or on demand through The Public Pulse podcast, available at 887thepulse.com and on our apps at 88.7 The Pulse AZ.
