Mountainside High School junior Emily Rodriguez organized the Paws for a Cause 5K run/walk last weekend, raising 5,000 for the Union County Animal Shelter's expansion project.

Over 400 participants showed up for the Saturday morning event at Echo Lake Park, despite early morning rain. Local businesses sponsored the event, providing water stations and post-race snacks.

The funds raised will help the shelter build additional kennel space and upgrade its medical facilities. Rodriguez hopes to make the 5K an annual event.