EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. - Gateway Pet Guardians in East St. Louis is hosting its fifth annual Beyond Rescue fundraiser to support its mission of keeping local pets with their owners.

The fundraiser aims to assist pets and their owners through initiatives such as a veterinary clinic, pet food pantry and supply store, all made affordable for the community.

This year's donation drive holds special significance for Amanda Loellke, who has set a personal goal of raising $15,000 for the Beyond Rescue fundraiser.

According to Gateway Pet Guardians, one dog named Barley has spent 1,400 days in the group's care.

“He keeps finding his way back to me, and I think that’s the world’s way of saying it’s meant to be," Loellke said.

Loellke has one goal in mind: raising $15,000 for the Beyond Rescue fundraiser. If she can accomplish this goal, she will adopt Barley.

“Barley is super chill,” Loellke said. “He's so chill in a house—he loves to snuggle and he loves to play with toys. He lounges around all day and is potty trained. (He's) really good with the people; he knows.”

The campaign exists to aid pets; for more information about it, visit here. Gateway Pet Guardians' donation page can be found here.