For the past seven years, 23-year-old Mattapoisett resident Freemin Bauer has been working tirelessly to raise enough money to bring a dog park to his beloved neighborhood. His efforts continue on Aug. 27 when he hosts his annual dog walk-a-thon to raise funds that will help his dream for Mattapoisett become a reality.

Freemin Bauer's Mission

“He’s been advocating for a park since he was 17,” his mother Jodi said.

Freemin’s efforts started as an Eagle Scout project when he hosted his first walk-a-thon and raised around $1,600 for Fairhaven Animal Shelter.

“After that, he still really wanted a dog park in town, and his efforts have continued ever since,” Jodi said.

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Over the past few years, Freemin has managed to raise just over $5,000 with his annual walk-a-thons. Once they hit the $10,000 mark, the Bauer family will apply for a grant through the Stanton Foundation, an organization that made the Wareham Dog Park possible.

Jodi is incredibly proud of the work Freemin has put into the project.

“We have 1,000 licensed dogs in Mattapoisett right now, so it will certainly be put to good use,” she said.

All that’s left to do is raise enough funds to make it a reality.

Event Information

Date/Time: Saturday, Aug. 27, 8 a.m. to noon

Route: The stroll begins at Center School on Barstow Street with two routes available. The Hydrant Walk is a 1-mile loop around the village, and the Paw Print Walk is a half-mile.

Entry Fee: $25 donation that will go toward building a future dog park in Mattapoisett. All participants will receive commemorative T-shirts.

All dogs and towns are welcome. Come for the dogs and stay to support Freemin’s generous goal.

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