JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- One-hundred cars to 100 non-profits in 100 days. That's the new mission of car company Toyota.
And Monday, a Jacksonville organization was the lucky winner.
Keith Pierson Toyota was selected to present a new Highlander to K-9 Services German Shepherd Rescue.
Toyota is putting non-profits in the driver's seat. And here in Jacksonville, that means a new ride to help rescue German shepherds from kill shelters.
"I'm overwhelmed. Overwhelmed," said Nila Walden-Hughes, President of K-9 Services German Shepherd Rescue.
Walden-Hughes is at a loss for words as she grips the keys to her brand-new SUV. To her, it's so much more than a ride. It's a lifesaver for German shepherds whose days are numbered.
"We rescue them out of high-kill shelters and then we rehabilitate them and train them and adopt them out into loving family homes," she said.
Even Ziggy, found four months ago, skin and bones on the side of the highway. They nursed him back to health and are now working to find him a home. Without a ride, they were stopped in their tracks.
"Our car bit the dust, died, so we're without a car for six months now so this is an unbelievable blessing."
This is just one of 100 organizations being awarded new wheels by Toyota. And it wasn't a hard one for Keith Pierson to get on board with.
"Very proud. Very, very proud," Pierson said. "Anything we can do to help these people while they have the car, believe me, we're on board because it absolutely gives me chills to see the wonderful work they do."
Keith Pierson Toyota went above and beyond with this vehicle before handing it over by loading it up with $1,500 worth of extras, plus a lifetime warranty.
The K-9 Services German Shepherd Rescue needs help with more than just a ride. The organization is looking for a new building, because its current location is too small. To donate, visit the website at
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