Dog Days of Summer: Career Paw-sibilities Fair

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Ellie Moore
Senior Director of Marketing and Development
Developmental Services, Inc. (DSI)
emoore@dsiservices.org
www.dsiservices.org
 
DSI Announces Inaugural “Dog Days of Summer: Career Paw-sibilities Fair”
A Free Family Event Featuring Career Opportunities, Community Vendors, and Pet Adoptions
 
COLUMBUS, IN (July 25, 2025) – Developmental Services, Inc. (DSI) is excited to announce the launch of its first-ever Dog Days of Summer: Career Paw-sibilities Fair, taking place on Thursday, August 28, from 2:00 to 6:00 PM at 2920 Tenth Street in Columbus, IN.
 
This free, public event combines the energy of a summer festival with the purpose of a community career fair. It’s designed to bring people together, connect local businesses, and showcase the meaningful work being done by DSI to support individuals with disabilities.
 
Attendees can learn more about career opportunities at DSI, including on-site interviews for Direct Support Professional (DSP) roles; positions where compassionate individuals make a real difference by helping people with disabilities live more independent and fulfilling lives.
 
Those interested in participating in interviews or registering for the door prize basket may RSVP in advance at: https://dsiservices.formstack.com/forms/dogdaysdoorprizebasket
 
“We really wanted this to be more than just a hiring event,” said Ellie Moore, Senior Director of Marketing and Development. “We wanted to create something that felt fun and meaningful, a space where people could learn about the work we do, connect with our team, and just enjoy a good summer day with their families and their dogs.”
 
A major highlight of the day will be the Dog Days Parade, beginning at 4:30 PM, with check-in starting at 4:00 PM. DSI clients will be judging the parade and presenting handmade trophies to the winners.
This event will also benefit Community Animal Rescue Effort (C.A.R.E.), a Columbus-based nonprofit foster-based rescue dedicated to giving animals in need a second chance.
 
C.A.R.E. is a volunteer-run organization that doesn’t operate a physical shelter; instead, every rescued animal is placed in a loving foster home while they await adoption. Donations from parade participants, whether monetary or items like food, toys, or pet supplies, will go directly to C.A.R.E.’s efforts in:

• Providing veterinary care, including dental work, parasite treatments, and broken limb repair
• Supplying food, crates, and essential pet care items
• Promoting adoption and offering community education
• Supporting spay and neuter initiatives to reduce shelter overcrowding

 
Parade participants can register in advance at:
https://dsiservices.formstack.com/forms/dogdaysdogparadeentry
 
“Our community is filled with people who care deeply, and this event is a great reminder of what can happen when we come together to support something bigger than ourselves,” Moore said. “Whether someone finds a new job, adopts a dog, or just donates a can of food, they’re making a real difference.”
 
In addition to career exploration and the parade, the event will feature:

• Over 15 local vendors, from makers to bakers, small business owners to non-profits
• A cookout benefiting DSI’s inclusive prom
• Adoptable dogs from C.A.R.E.
• A photo booth, balloon animals, and other family-friendly fun
• A 50/50 Tennis Ball Drop and a Pup Cup Pull, with proceeds equally benefiting DSI’s inclusive prom and C.A.R.E.

 
Interested vendors can register to participate at:
https://dsiservices.formstack.com/forms/dogdaysofsummercareerpawsibilitiesfair
 
Event updates and details are available at:
https://facebook.com/events/s/dsi-dog-days-of-summer-career-/712911958307048/
 
 
“Some of the best parts of this day will come from the people we serve,” Moore added. “You’ll see them handing out trophies, greeting guests, and helping run games. It’s not just about inclusion, it’s about celebration. We want people to walk away with a smile and a story.”
 
About Developmental Services, Inc. (DSI):
Developmental Services, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that has served individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities for over 50 years. With programming in 63 counties across Indiana, DSI supports individuals in employment, daily living, education, and recreation, building inclusive communities where everyone belongs.
 
The Dog Days of Summer: Career Paw-sibilities Fair is free and open to the public.
For more information, to schedule interviews, or to cover the event, contact Ellie Moore at emoore@dsiservices.org.