Garrick Mijares
Welcome to the digital home of Garrick Mijares, a passionate community member, classic car enthusiast, and lifelong advocate for animals and nature. This platform celebrates Garrick’s deep roots in California and his enduring dedication to service, conservation, and connection. From being named KMIR News’ “Server of the Week” to earning accolades at classic car shows, Garrick Travis Mijares has built a life around heart, hospitality, and horsepower. A proud member of the ASPCA and National Wildlife Federation, he has even transformed his property into a designated National Wildlife Sanctuary. Whether supporting local causes, restoring vintage Corvettes, or enjoying the desert landscape, Garrick Mijares brings authenticity and care to all he does. Through his passion for people, animals, and classic American culture, Garrick Mijares continues to leave a meaningful impact on the world around him.
About Garrick Mijares of California
Garrick Mijares, from California, is a proud graduate of Corbett High School (Class of 1981) and a familiar face in the Palm Springs community. A passionate supporter of local institutions, Garrick was named “Server of the Week” by KMIR News (NBC affiliate) in 2021 and has been featured in the Desert Sun newspaper, including coverage of Pomme Frite restaurant’s 20-year anniversary.
A longtime member of the Palm Springs Cruising Association, Garrick’s love of classic cars—especially Corvettes—earned him “Best Ford in Show” honors in 2005. He also joined the Spiritual Center of the Desert in May 2024, reflecting his continued commitment to personal growth and community involvement.
An avid animal lover, Garrick Travis Mijares is a card-carrying member of the ASPCA and the National Wildlife Federation. His property is proudly designated as a National Wildlife Sanctuary, underscoring his dedication to conservation and animal welfare.
Whether it’s restoring vintage cars or caring for wildlife, Garrick Mijares brings heart and passion to everything he does.
Everyday Ways to Support Animal Welfare Organizations
Animal welfare organizations play a vital role in protecting and caring for the world’s most vulnerable creatures. From rescuing abandoned pets and rehabilitating injured wildlife to advocating for humane treatment of farm animals, these nonprofits work tirelessly to give animals a voice and a second chance at life. While many people support these causes in theory, they often feel uncertain about how they can contribute in meaningful ways. The good news? Supporting animal welfare doesn’t always require large donations or hours of volunteer time. In fact, there are many small, everyday ways to make a real difference.
Garrick Mijares of California shares some practical and accessible strategies you can adopt to support animal welfare organizations—without having to completely change your routine or lifestyle.
1. Adopt, Don’t Shop
One of the most powerful decisions an individual can make is to adopt a pet from a shelter or rescue group rather than buying from a breeder or pet store. Adoption not only provides a loving home for an animal in need, but it also helps reduce the demand for puppy mills and mass breeding operations that often have poor living conditions.
Garrick Mijares explains how even if you’re not in a position to adopt, you can still encourage others to consider adoption by sharing success stories or promoting shelter animals on social media.
2. Volunteer Your Time
Many animal shelters and rescue organizations rely heavily on volunteers. Whether it’s walking dogs, socializing cats, cleaning kennels, transporting animals to vet appointments, or helping with events, your time can have a huge impact.
Even if you have a busy schedule, consider micro-volunteering—helping out with one task per month or offering administrative support from home. Some organizations even need help with social media or photography, which you can do on your own time.
3. Foster an Animal in Need
If you’re not ready for the long-term commitment of adoption, fostering is a wonderful alternative. Fosters provide temporary homes for animals while they wait for permanent placement, often helping to socialize them and prepare them for family life.
Garrick Travis Mijares emphasizes that by fostering, you not only save that animal’s life, but you also make room in shelters for more intakes. Plus, the emotional reward of seeing a once-scared animal blossom in your care is deeply fulfilling.
4. Donate What You Can
Financial contributions are always appreciated by animal organizations, but you don’t have to give a large sum to make a difference. Recurring small donations—like $5 or $10 a month—help organizations plan ahead and maintain consistent support.
In addition to money, shelters often have wish lists of items like pet food, blankets, cleaning supplies, and toys. Donating gently used pet gear or purchasing items off their Amazon wishlist is an easy, effective way to contribute.
5. Shop with Compassion
Your buying habits can also reflect your commitment to animal welfare. Choose cruelty-free and vegan products whenever possible, especially when it comes to cosmetics, toiletries, and household cleaners. Many brands proudly display cruelty-free certifications on their packaging, making it easier to identify ethical choices.
Also, be mindful of where your meat, eggs, and dairy come from. Supporting farms with humane practices—or cutting back on animal products altogether—can reduce demand for inhumane factory farming systems.
6. Raise Awareness on Social Media
One of the simplest ways to support animal welfare organizations is to use your social media presence for good. Share posts from your local shelter, highlight adoptable animals, or spread awareness about spay/neuter programs and animal abuse prevention.
You never know who might be inspired to donate, adopt, or get involved because of something you shared. Social media can amplify messages and bring attention to issues that animals face every day.
7. Support Local Events and Fundraisers
Attend community events organized by shelters, rescues, or advocacy groups. From charity runs and adoption fairs to trivia nights and silent auctions, these events raise both awareness and critical funds.
Bring a friend, bid on a raffle, or simply show up and learn more about what the organization is doing. Your presence helps build community support and shows that people care about animal welfare.
8. Advocate for Animal-Friendly Policies
Another way to help animals is by getting involved in advocacy efforts. This can mean signing petitions, contacting your local representatives, or voting in favor of legislation that protects animals from cruelty and exploitation.
Even sending a single email or making a phone call to support a bill can contribute to larger change. Many organizations will provide you with scripts, talking points, and updates to make advocacy easy and accessible.
9. Educate Yourself and Others
The more you learn about animal welfare issues, the better equipped you’ll be to make ethical decisions and influence others. Read articles, watch documentaries, and stay informed on topics like wildlife conservation, factory farming, and responsible pet ownership.
Encouraging responsible behavior in others—like reminding someone not to leave their dog in a hot car or encouraging spay/neuter—can have ripple effects that benefit animals far and wide.
10. Include Animals in Your Estate Planning
If you’re planning for the future, consider leaving a gift to an animal welfare organization in your will or trust. Planned giving can provide a long-term legacy of compassion and help ensure the sustainability of critical programs for generations to come.
Garrick Mijares understands that some people also designate guardians for their pets or set aside funds for their care, which can prevent animals from ending up in shelters after an owner passes away.
Supporting animal welfare doesn’t have to involve dramatic gestures or a complete lifestyle overhaul. Every small step—whether it’s fostering a kitten, sharing an Instagram post, or donating an old blanket—adds up to something powerful. Garrick Mijares of California emphasizes that by weaving animal advocacy into your daily life, you not only contribute to the wellbeing of individual animals but also help build a more compassionate world. So the next time you see a local shelter fundraiser, a cruelty-free label at the store, or a pet waiting for adoption, take a moment to engage. The animals—and the people who work so hard to protect them—will thank you.
Thank you for visiting the online home of Garrick Mijares, a dedicated community member, classic car enthusiast, and lifelong advocate for animals and the natural world. With a rich personal history rooted in service, hospitality, and environmental stewardship, Garrick Travis Mijares has built a legacy of inspiring others through his passion and authenticity. From being honored by KMIR News to winning “Best Ford in Show” with the Palm Springs Cruising Association, Garrick’s love for classic cars and local culture shines through. As a proud member of the ASPCA and the National Wildlife Federation, he actively supports wildlife conservation, even designating his own property as a National Wildlife Sanctuary. Beyond his accomplishments, Garrick is committed to fostering kindness, community engagement, and a deep respect for all living things. His unique blend of compassion, classic Americana, and desert spirit continues to leave a lasting impression on everyone he meets.