My name is Jordan Sucato. I am a 16-year-old high school student from Arizona and the founder of Laws for Paws. I started my nonprofit because I wanted to help animals and the people who love them. I have always been drawn to caring for animals. When I was little, my parents had to watch me because I would come home with strays. My mom encouraged that passion and took me to volunteer at a rescue when I was eight. Seeing dogs that had suffered abuse made me realize that I wanted to spend my life helping animals that cannot speak for themselves.

In sixth grade, I wrote an essay about banning cosmetic animal testing. That research grew into a statewide campaign. I spent two years presenting to legislators, and by the time I was sixteen, my bill had made it through nearly the entire legislative process. Along the way, I learned that advocacy is not about age or titles. If you care enough to show up, people will listen.

But I also realized there are animals and people who need help right here at home. In Arizona, the heat can burn a dog’s paws in seconds. I used to judge people who walked their pets without protective wear until my mom reminded me that not everyone can afford it. That changed everything for me. I raised $20,000 to provide more than 2,000 pairs of dog booties and care packages for homeless pet owners. We include things like food, toothpaste, socks, and water bowls, because caring for the person is just as important as caring for the pet.

When I meet people on the street, I see love, not neglect. Many take better care of their animals than they do themselves. I believe shaming someone never helps, but support does. These pets are family, and no one should lose family because of their circumstances.

I do this work because compassion should be active. If you see a problem, you can fix it. You just have to start.