Story #47: The Ripple Effect of Compassion
As told by Patti Papageorge, Corporate Partner at Pet Supplies Plus
From a Store to a Mission
What started as a neighborhood pet store grew into something much bigger: a partnership built on compassion, community, and a shared love for animals.
In 2011, we opened our Pet Supplies Plus franchise on Randall Road in North Aurora. Our goal was simple: support local pet parents with the supplies and care their pets deserve. Everything changed in 2016 when we were introduced to Anderson Humane.
From the first conversation, it was clear we shared the same values.
Anderson Humane wanted to reach more families in the western suburbs, and we wanted to do more than sell pet food and toys. We believe pets are family, so together we imagined a place where homeless pets could meet their future families right in the heart of the community.
That vision became a reality in February 2017 when we opened an Anderson Humane adoption center next to our store. The center allowed Anderson Humane to connect with more adopters, while we supported new pet parents from day one. By last year, the adoption center helped more than 5,400 puppies, kittens, dogs, and cats find their loving homes.
Each one represents a life changed, both animal and human.
One story that stands out because of our partnership is about our Store Team Leader, Natalie.
Natalie was looking for a companion for her dog, Sydney, and while browsing the Anderson Humane website, she found Piper.
The connection was immediate.
Natalie drove straight to the shelter to meet her.
The team gave her time, answered all of her questions, and helped her make a calm, stress-free decision. About an hour later, Natalie knew Piper was coming home.
Piper quickly became more than a pet. She became a best friend, a shadow, and a constant source of comfort and joy. Natalie remains deeply grateful for the care Anderson Humane showed and for the dog who changed her life.
Even though the North Aurora adoption center closed in late 2025 because of operational challenges, our partnership with Anderson Humane continues.
We host and sponsor events, raise funds, and support their mission in every way we can.
Anderson Humane’s care, dedication, and compassion remain visible every day. Their mission to create meaningful connections between people and animals continues.
We are proud to be part of it, one connection, one family, and one loving home at a time.
Do you have a story about how Anderson Humane changed your life?
We would love to hear it – Submit Your Story Here!
Ready to start your own rescue story?
Meet adoptable animals at Anderson Humane by visiting ahconnects.org/adopt, or help make the next 60 stories possible by donating in honor of our 60th Anniversary.
Interested in becoming a Corporate Sponsor?
Email our Corporate Partners Manager, Jenn Smiley, at jsmiley@ahconnects.org
