When only eleven years old, Kelly founded Maine Vest-a-Dog, an organization dedicated to providing bulletproof vests to Maine police dogs. Over the past six years, she has raised $40,000 and vested 54 K-9s. In addition, Kelly has spoken to many civic organizations and hundreds of school children about the importance of police dogs. She truly believes that police dogs deserve protection since they do not choose their dangerous lives.

After raising the first $12,000, Kelly learned that her program violated Maine law. Back in 2001, state law prohibited citizens from fundraising efforts for the police. Kelly worked courageously to submit legislation and testify at the Statehouse in support of a new law that would allow non-profit groups to raise funds for law enforcement. Many legislators opposed the proposed law. Yet, after eight months of Kelly and her likeminded supporters’ hard work, Governor King signed Kelly’s bill into law.

Kelly decided to help change Maine law in support of a good cause. Besides legalizing Vest-a-Dog, the new law enables volunteers across the state to invest their time and resources in many worthwhile civic projects, including those that benefit the police. For example, when a local policeman suffered injuries while attempting to stop a robbery, his community sponsored a benefit to help defray his medical expenses. The old law would not have allowed the public to raise funds on his behalf. Kelly continues her efforts with Maine Vest-a-Dog today by fundraising and speaking at public events. She has become an inspiration to many because of her dedication and commitment to follow her dreams and help improve her community, especially for the brave men, women, and, indeed, dogs who serve in the police.

To learn more about Kelly and her cause, and how you can make a difference, please visit:
www.mainevestadog.homestead.com

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