A Seaford business owner is turning a routine pet service into a way to support students with special needs at General Douglas MacArthur High School.
Throughout April, The Shampooch Pawlor is offering discounted nail clippings for dogs, with all proceeds benefiting the school’s 5-Star program, which serves students with developmental disabilities.
For owner Susan Levy, the fundraiser is deeply personal.
“My son is on the spectrum, and he attends MacArthur High School, so this is very personal to me,” Levy said. “I just wanted to give back because they do so much for our children.”
Levy’s connection to the program goes beyond fundraising. Her business has partnered with the school to provide students with hands-on vocational experience.
“We’ve been working with the school’s vocational program, where students come into the shop and help out,” Levy said. “It gives them a sense of inclusion and shows them they are accepted.”
According to Stephanie Addona, chairperson of special education at MacArthur, the 5-Star program focuses on preparing students for life beyond high school.
“It is a program that works on functional academics, as well as preparing students for the vocational skills needed for adulthood,” Addona said.
The program serves about 30 students and emphasizes real-world experiences, including trips into the community and job training opportunities.
Funds raised through Levy’s efforts help support those experiences.
“The proceeds are typically used to take our students on trips in the community or bring in programs,” Addona said. “We’ve taken students to restaurants so they can learn how to order a meal, as well as provided activities like mindfulness and yoga classes.”
She added that the funding helps ensure families are not burdened with additional costs.
“Most of the time, we never have to ask our parents for money for these trips,” Addona said.
Beyond financial support, Addona said partnerships with local businesses play a critical role in helping students build confidence and independence.
“That’s our goal — to prepare our young adults to be included in their adult world,” she said. “By giving them these experiences, we’re helping them develop the skills and confidence they need in real-life settings once they graduate.”
Levy has also supported the program in the past, including selling student-made ornaments during the holidays and donating the proceeds.
Addona said Levy’s continued involvement has made a meaningful impact.
“She has graciously opened her door and her heart to our students,” Addona said. “We are incredibly grateful for her.”
Levy said the community response to the current fundraiser has been overwhelmingly positive.
“The response from the community has been beautiful,” she said.
She hopes the effort not only raises funds, but also promotes greater understanding.
“I wish people understood that it’s about inclusivity,” Levy said. “Our kids are part of the community like any other kids — they’re smart, capable and deserve opportunities.”
Addona emphasized that the program’s success is also driven by the people behind it.
“The program is successful because of the amazing teachers, teacher assistants and one-to-one aides who work so hard every day for the success of our students,” she said.
The fundraiser is open to all community members, whether they have a pet or not. In addition to booking appointments, residents can make donations or purchase gift certificates to support the cause.
