On Aug. 29, in a heartwarming fusion of food and philanthropy, the Wags for Mags organization hosted its fall fundraiser, where hot dogs were more than just an afternoon snack.

Wags for Mags is a student-led organization founded in 2012 by Bradley University physical therapy professors Stacie and Rob Bertram to honor their late daughter Maggie, who tragically passed away in a car accident that year. The organization, named in her memory, continues Maggie’s legacy of volunteering with Paws Giving Independence, by training service dogs to assist people with disabilities.

Just outside of Bradley Hall, students stopped by between their classes to show their support by purchasing hot dogs.

From joining the organization to showing up to events, Bradley students can support Wags for Mags in more ways than one.

In her first full year as President, Abi Williams strives to grow the organization’s support and stay consistent with their positive efforts in the community. 

“Any type of support helps, whether you want to be a member, or just pet the dogs, your actions matter,” Williams said.

Now in its second year, the “Dogs & Dawgs” fundraiser reflects coordinator Sydney Razo-Ewan’s deep dedication to the cause, with every effort directly benefiting the service dogs in training. 

“We do this to ensure the dogs receive the training they need so they can provide crucial support to those who rely on them,” said Razo-Ewan.

Wags for Mags’ reach does not stop at the edge of campus, but spreads throughout the midwest, working directly with the women’s prison in Logan, Illinois

The Wags for Mags organization transforms the lives of both dogs and people by rescuing canines from shelters or the streets and partnering with generous breeders who donate dogs. These dogs are then paired with prisoners, who are trained to care for and groom them. 

This unique program not only gives the dogs a second chance at life but also equips inmates with valuable skills, offering them a sense of purpose and a pathway to future employment with Paws Giving Independence upon their release. Through this initiative, both dogs and humans experience a transformative journey toward a better future.

“The impacts these dogs have on people is amazing. It transforms the prisoners’ lives. It gives them purpose,” said Williams.

While working with these dogs, it can be hard for the members to really see the impact they are making. 

“I remember seeing a girl come into class several times, unable to walk. Then one day, she came in with her mobility dog and was walking on her own,” Williams said. “That moment was when I truly understood how much our work matters and how it changes lives.”

Every dollar donated or event supported goes far beyond training service dogs — it is empowering individuals to regain their independence by helping them walk, see, hear, and providing assistance to those whose lives depend on these incredible companions.

Wags for Mags is committed to offering support to those in need, transforming lives through their dedicated work training service dogs. 

“Sometimes the dogs can be a lot, but seeing them with their recipients makes it all worthwhile,” Williams said. “It’s a feeling that is bigger than yourself.”