On Saturday, April 29, the Hartland based Inclusion Coffee Company hosted a fundraiser in honor of the K9 dog Tesla. Tesla had been a therapy dog who worked as a mental health support animal for first responders and their communities. Tesla, who was lovingly known as Tessie, served in the southeastern Wisconsin region until her passing on April 14. As a way to honor the pup’s legacy and further the K9 team’s mission in the area, the K9 Tesla Scholarship Fund was established.
Inclusion Coffee dedicated 25% of their total sales on Saturday to the organization. According to a post, the event was a record breaking sales day for Inclusion, as the community showed up in droves. Throughout most of the morning, the line for service at the counter went out the door, as eager locals showed up to participate in the fundraiser. Several firetrucks, ambulances, and other local law enforcement vehicles could be found in the parking lot out front, as dozens of first responders happily came to the event.
There were also several raffle items available, where customers could purchase tickets whose sales went entirely to the fundraiser. Many local businesses helped participate, such as The Salt Spot, P Georgia’s Pasta Pizza Piano, and Pink Mocha Cafe and Coffee House. A table was also set up near the front door where merchandise for the organization was available for purchase. Hoodies, t-shirts, and other various items were sold, all featuring the face of Tesla on a red paw print logo. Every dollar from this merchandise goes towards benefitting the fundraiser as well.
The K9 Tesla Scholarship Fund is meant to help further Tesla’s years of positive impact on the community. The training, upkeep, and purchase of a new mental health dog can be incredibly expensive. This fund seeks this ensure that a new dog will be able to fill in for Tesla since her passing. The hope is that there can be a legacy of love and comfort available for all of the first responders who build strong and meaningful connections with these service dogs. In addition to today’s event, there is also an ongoing GoFundMe for its benefit.
The amount of love and excitement inside of Inclusion Coffee was overwhelming. The community was enthusiastic about the event, as many took the time to chat with volunteers working on behalf of the Scholarship Fund. The raffle items and merchandise sales were also incredibly popular, and the buzz around them never seemed to slow down. Although Tessie will never be forgotten, she leaves a lifetime of smiles and love behind that will hopefully be carried on for years to come.
