Stories from Pupcycled Volunteers
Inspired by their love for dogs and passion for conservation, high school students Olivia Liu and Sophia Liu founded Pupcycled as a nonprofit to craft dog toys from recycled clothing. As an organization, we're dedicated to making a meaningful impact on both the lives of dogs and the health of our planet (Pupcycled). Since its founding, Pupcycled has become an innovative initiative in five US states and two countries, with twelve active chapters.
Pupcycled Volunteers
Pupcycled Volunteer Experiences:
There is all kinds of information we could share with you about the nearly one thousand volunteers here at Pupcycled, like their amazing impact of over four thousand dog toys made out of more than three thousand articles of clothing saved from the scrap pile. But why not hear it from the volunteers themselves?
Who better to ask about the volunteer experience than one of Pupcycled’s first volunteers, founder and president Olivia Liu? After stating the fundamental dual mission of Pupcycled to support the operations of dog sanctuaries and prevent the unnecessary discarding of clothing, she added that beyond supporting animals and the environment, the organization has also helped "bring communities closer together through volunteering."
“I loved hearing how, by recycling dog toys, we can give dogs happiness and also help the environment,” said Ayesha, who had just joined the team. Adding, “Everything has been communicated super clearly — I know exactly what my tasks are.”She was especially excited to begin working on her first Instagram post.
“My favorite part of being with Pupcycled has been learning to improve my public speaking,” shared Maddie, an event host, also sharing that “When I host, I teach volunteers how to make the toys and answer their questions — it’s really helped me grow.” Maddie’s journey with the team has helped her build confidence while giving back to both animals and the planet.
“Honestly, from the start, I thought Pupcycled was an amazing idea,” said Yaneva, a newcomer to the team. On beginning work at Pupcycled, she recalled, “Everyone was so kind and genuine — I felt part of something meaningful right away”. Through Pupcycled, Yaneva also found a space to express her creativity, “It’s about helping dogs in need, but also gives volunteers the freedom to be creative in their own way”.
Weee! Company event
Volunteer with Pupcycled, Make a Difference
Volunteering with Pupcycled isn’t just about crafting toys. It's about building confidence, meeting like-minded people, and standing up for the environment. Join us in our mission by becoming a volunteer today!
Written By Syed Huzaif
Works Cited
Pupcycled. “About Us.” Pupcycled, https://www.pupcycled.org/about.
Pupcycled. “Our Impact.” Pupcycled, https://www.pupcycled.org/impact.
Khan, Ayesha. Interview by Syed Huzaif. 2 June 2025.
Maddie. Interview by Syed Huzaif. 15 June 2025.
Liu, Olivia. Interview by Syed Huzaif. 16 June 2025.
Yaneva, Blagovesta. Interview by Syed Huzaif. 17 June 2025.
Pupcycled. Volunteer and event photos. Google Drive folder, accessed June 2025.
