About Paws United Pinellas
A community-driven nonprofit born from a passion for helping both people and animals right here in Pinellas County, Florida.
Meet the Founder
Paws United Pinellas was founded by CC Pond, a Pinellas County resident with a lifelong passion for helping both people and animals. CC saw firsthand how financial hardship forces impossible choices — families giving up beloved pets because they can't afford food or vet care, and individuals going without basic necessities because they simply don't know where to turn.
Driven by the belief that no one — human or animal — should face hardship alone, CC created PUP to bridge that gap. What started as a personal mission to help neighbors in need has grown into a formal nonprofit dedicated to making a real, lasting difference in Pinellas County.
"I started PUP because I believe our community is stronger when we look out for each other — all of us, including our four-legged family members. Every person and every animal deserves compassion and support." — CC Pond, Founder & President
CC Pond
Founder & President
Our Leadership Team
Neil Rubenstein
Director
Neil brings dedication and heart to the PUP team, helping guide the organization's mission to serve people and animals across Pinellas County.
Our Mission
Our mission is to bring people and animals together through compassion, community support, and direct assistance. We want to help individuals and families facing financial hardship, provide food and essential necessities to those experiencing homelessness, and assist animals in need with food, supplies, and veterinary care.
What We Stand For
Compassion First
Every decision starts with empathy — for the people and animals we serve and the community that supports us.
Community-Powered
We are entirely funded and sustained by our community. Every donation, volunteer hour, and supply drive makes our work possible.
Keeping Families Together
We believe pets belong with their families. Our assistance prevents surrenders and keeps the bonds between people and animals intact.
Transparency & Trust
We are accountable to our community. Every dollar donated stays local and goes directly to people and animals in need.
Join Our Mission
Whether you donate, volunteer, or simply spread the word — you are part of what makes Paws United Pinellas possible.