The Vernon Company (PPAI 109323, D11) has announced that Yvette Berke and The Little Angels Project have been selected as the winners of the 2019 Vernon Cares award. Last year, the Newton, Iowa, distributor invited members of the promotional products community to share stories about their efforts to give back within their communities. After receiving many entries for worthwhile efforts throughout the country, Yvette Berke, who has owned Adapt Ad Specialty in Valley Glen, California, for more than 25 years, was chosen as the recipient. Her entry shared the story of her passion for animals and, specifically, the work of The Little Angels Project, for which she is a volunteer and board member.

The Little Angels Project is a unique nonprofit initiative founded by Darlene Geekie, RVT. When natural disasters strike in Southern California, LAP volunteers provide free veterinary services to pet owners and animals that have been displaced. From quickly setting up mobile vet care stations throughout North L.A. and Ventura County after the devastating 2018 Woolsey Fire to providing aid immediately after the Ridgecrest earthquakes and numerous Southern California wildfires in 2019, LAP works to provide care, hope, healing and rescue. During these disasters, all animals—those injured or those with owners who were evacuated—were treated free of charge.

“We were determined that no one would surrender any animal due to financial need,” says Berke.

As the chosen recipient, Vernon rewarded both Berke and Little Angels Project with $2,000 each to continue their efforts within the community.