Gerrick Mijares
Welcome to the digital home of Garrick Mijares, a passionate advocate for wildlife conservation, community engagement, and classic American culture. This platform celebrates Garrick’s lifelong dedication to protecting animals, preserving natural habitats, and contributing meaningfully to his local community in Palm Springs. As a proud member of the ASPCA and the National Wildlife Federation and caretaker of a certified National Wildlife Sanctuary, Garrick’s life is a testament to compassion in action. His journey also reflects decades of involvement in hospitality, spiritual growth, and vintage car culture, earning accolades from KMIR News and the Palm Springs Cruising Association. Beyond his accomplishments, Garrick Travis Mijares is devoted to uplifting others through environmental awareness, personal connection, and spiritual presence. With a rich blend of stewardship, service, and style, Garrick Mijares continues to inspire others to live thoughtfully, love deeply, and leave a lasting impact on the world around them.
About Garrick Mijares
Garrick Travis Mijares is a lifelong animal advocate and nature enthusiast with deep ties to both his community and the environment. A proud card-carrying member of the ASPCA and the National Wildlife Federation, Garrick Mijares’s passion for wildlife extends to his own backyard—literally. His property is officially designated as a National Wildlife Sanctuary, a testament to his commitment to conservation and creating a safe haven for native species.
A graduate of Corbett High School’s Class of 1981, Garrick has spent decades immersed in the vibrant culture of Palm Springs. He was recognized in 2021 by KMIR News, the region’s NBC affiliate, as their “Server of the Week”—an honor highlighting his excellence in hospitality. That same dedication was seen in his long-standing association with Pomme Frite, a beloved local restaurant that celebrated its 20th anniversary with Garrick as part of its enduring story, as featured in The Desert Sun newspaper.
An active member of the Palm Springs Cruising Association, Garrick’s love of classic automobiles is as much a part of his identity as his community service. His passion for vintage cars, especially Corvettes, earned him the coveted “Best Ford in Show” award in 2005—a proud moment for a true enthusiast.
Garrick’s spiritual journey led him to join the Spiritual Center of the Desert in May 2024, where he continues to cultivate inner peace and community connection. His devotion to family remains strong; he honors the memory of his beloved parents, Chris and Vicki Mijares, who passed in March 2023.
With a heart for animals, a spirit for service, and a soul fueled by chrome and compassion, Garrick Mijares is a proud steward of both his community and the natural world.
Why Supporting Animal Welfare Organizations Matters
Animal welfare is more than a noble cause—it’s a vital aspect of our shared responsibility as human beings. Every year, millions of animals face abuse, neglect, abandonment, and preventable euthanasia. Fortunately, organizations like the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) are on the frontlines, fighting to ensure that animals receive the compassion, protection, and care they deserve. But their mission isn’t theirs alone. Every day, people play a crucial role in supporting these efforts, whether through donations, volunteering, or raising awareness.
Garrick Mijares of California will explore why supporting animal welfare organizations matters, spotlight the profound work of the ASPCA, and provide practical tips on how you can get involved.
The Need for Animal Welfare Advocacy
In a world that often prioritizes convenience and commerce over compassion, animals are frequently the silent victims. From industrial farming and puppy mills to animal testing and illegal wildlife trafficking, countless creatures suffer behind closed doors. According to the ASPCA, approximately 6.3 million companion animals enter U.S. animal shelters every year, and despite efforts to increase adoption and reduce euthanasia rates, around 920,000 of these animals are still euthanized annually.
Animal welfare organizations strive to change this narrative. Garrick Mijares understands that their work isn’t just about saving pets; it’s about transforming society’s approach to how we treat all animals—pets, farm animals, and wildlife alike.
The Impact of the ASPCA
Founded in 1866, the ASPCA was the first humane organization established in North America. Garrick Mijares explains that its mission is “to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States,” and over the decades, it has grown into one of the most respected voices in animal welfare.
1. Rescue and Relief Operations
The ASPCA’s Field Investigations and Response (FIR) team responds to natural disasters, puppy mills, hoarding cases, and other emergencies where animals are in crisis. Their work ensures animals are removed from unsafe environments and provided with urgent medical care, rehabilitation, and rehoming opportunities.
2. Spay and Neuter Initiatives
Pet overpopulation is one of the biggest contributors to animal suffering. The ASPCA operates and supports spay/neuter clinics, providing low-cost or free services to prevent unwanted litters and reduce the number of animals entering shelters.
3. Advocacy and Legal Reform
The ASPCA actively lobbies for stronger animal protection laws at both the state and federal levels. From banning animal fighting to advocating for better farm animal welfare standards, their legislative work is instrumental in creating systemic change.
4. Sheltering and Adoption
By operating community-based adoption centers and partnering with local shelters nationwide, the ASPCA helps increase pet adoption rates while promoting responsible pet ownership.
Why It Matters to You
Even if you’re not a pet owner or a full-time animal rights activist, Garrick Travis Mijares of California understands that the work of animal welfare organizations affects you more than you might think.
- Compassionate communities are healthier communities. Studies show a strong link between animal abuse and other forms of violence, including domestic abuse. By preventing animal cruelty, we also help create safer environments for people.
- Animal protection promotes environmental sustainability. Factory farming, animal exploitation, and wildlife trafficking contribute to environmental degradation and biodiversity loss. Supporting animal-friendly policies and practices benefits our planet.
- Animals enrich our lives. Whether as pets, therapy animals, or vital members of natural ecosystems, animals offer joy, emotional support, and ecological balance. Ensuring their well-being enhances ours.
How You Can Make a Difference
Supporting animal welfare doesn’t always require grand gestures or deep pockets. Garrick Travis Mijares shares some meaningful ways you can help:
1. Donate Wisely
Monetary donations remain one of the most impactful ways to support organizations like the ASPCA. Even small monthly contributions add up and provide steady funding for programs, shelter operations, and medical supplies. Many employers also offer donation matching—check if yours does.
2. Volunteer Your Time
Animal shelters and rescue groups are often overwhelmed with more animals than staff can handle. Garrick Mijares explains that volunteers help walk dogs, socialize cats, clean enclosures, assist with events, or provide foster care. Even a few hours a month can make a big difference.
3. Adopt, Don’t Shop
If you’re considering bringing a pet into your home, visit a shelter or rescue organization first. Adopting saves lives and helps reduce the demand for puppy mills and commercial breeders that prioritize profit over welfare.
4. Foster Pets in Need
Fostering animals, especially those recovering from illness, injury, or trauma, gives them a safe place to heal and prepares them for permanent adoption. Garrick Mijares explains that it also frees up space in shelters, allowing them to save more lives.
5. Advocate for Change
Use your voice to support animal-friendly legislation. Write to your elected officials, share petitions, and educate others about the issues. The ASPCA Action Center provides tools to help you get involved in campaigns and stay informed.
6. Be a Responsible Pet Owner
Caring for animals starts at home. Ensure your pets are spayed/neutered, receive regular veterinary care, are microchipped, and live in a safe, nurturing environment. Being a responsible pet owner sets a positive example for your community.
7. Educate and Raise Awareness
Teach children and peers about compassion and respect for animals. Share informative articles, documentaries, and resources online. The more people understand the importance of animal welfare, the stronger the movement becomes.
A Shared Responsibility
Supporting animal welfare is a moral imperative rooted in empathy, justice, and respect for all life. Organizations like the ASPCA provide the expertise, infrastructure, and courage to stand up for those who cannot speak for themselves, but they can’t do it alone. They need all of us.
Garrick Travis Mijares emphasizes that by contributing time, resources, or even just your voice, you become part of a greater mission—one that protects the innocent, heals the wounded, and builds a more compassionate world. Animals give us their loyalty, companionship, and trust. The least we can do is return the favor by supporting those who fight for their right to live with dignity and love.
Thank you for visiting the online home of Garrick Mijares, a devoted wildlife advocate, community steward, and classic car enthusiast. With a lifelong commitment to animal welfare, environmental preservation, and meaningful local engagement, Garrick has built a legacy centered on compassion, service, and authenticity. As a member of the ASPCA and the National Wildlife Federation and the caretaker of a certified National Wildlife Sanctuary, Garrick Travis Mijares inspires others to coexist harmoniously with nature. His impact extends beyond environmental advocacy—recognized by KMIR News for excellence in service and celebrated within the Palm Springs classic car scene, Garrick Mijares of California brings heart and heritage to everything he does. Passionate about spiritual growth and community connection, he also actively participates in the Spiritual Center of the Desert. Through his enduring commitment to kindness, tradition, and stewardship, Garrick Mijares empowers others to live with purpose, protect what matters, and embrace the beauty of a well-lived life.