Ottumwa Schools is inviting students, staff, families, and the community to come together for Dusty’s Big Dog Challenge, a districtwide initiative supporting the Heartland Humane Society through donations, fundraising, and service-learning. The challenge runs from now through March 30, 2026, with the ambitious goal of providing one full year of food and essential supplies for animals in Heartland’s care.
Named after Superintendent Mr. McGrory’s first “Ottumwa” dog, Dusty, the challenge combines school spirit with compassion, encouraging students across all Ottumwa school buildings to take part in meaningful, real-world service.
“I’ve seen a lot of great competition in Ottumwa Schools, on the field, on the court, and in the classroom, but this challenge is about something bigger,” said Superintendent McGrory. “Dusty’s Big Dog Challenge allows our students to show that while we compete, we also care. It’s about more than donations; it’s about teaching our students that small actions can make a big difference and that caring for others is part of who we are as Bulldogs.”
Throughout the challenge, schools will host supply drives, theme and dress-up days, classroom learning activities, and friendly building competitions. Students will engage in lessons tied to social-emotional learning, science, and writing, focusing on empathy, responsibility, civic engagement, and the importance of caring for animals and community.
“This partnership is incredibly meaningful for us,” said Courtney Monohon from Heartland Humane Society. “Food and supplies are our greatest ongoing need, and having the support of an entire school district helps us provide consistent, quality care for animals while they wait for their forever homes.”
In addition to supply and fundraising efforts, the initiative highlights responsible animal care, adoption, and long-term success. As part of Dusty’s Big Dog Challenge, Superintendent McGrory, Dusty Ware with Warehouse BBQ and Floor to Ceiling, Anthony Christner with Christner Contracting, Jered Pierce with Pierce Fencing, and The Ottumwa Legacy Foundation, will cover dog adoption fees through Heartland Humane Society from now through March 30, 2026. This effort aims to help more dogs find loving homes and give more “Dusty stories” the chance to begin.
Community members who wish to support Heartland Humane Society with a monetary donation may do so
online through the district. These contributions help provide food, medical care, and essential resources for animals in need throughout the year.
Community members interested in supporting Heartland Humane Society or learning more about adoption are encouraged to get involved.
