Robert & Kimberly Gudenkauf

Kimberly and Robert Gudenkauf's efforts to help the local animal population created a network of more than 80 volunteers, connected organizations in Mongolia and abroad, and saved the lives of many animals in Ulaanbaatar. By designing and selling merchandise, creating a GoFundMe campaign, and securing grants, the Gudenkaufs raised more than $40,000 for veterinary care and infrastructure improvements at local animal shelters. Upgrades included a water well and pump, two trailers, fencing, a residence for a shelter caretaker, and 50 insulated dog houses to help animals survive winter in the coldest capital city on earth. They also teamed with international organizations to find permanent homes in the United States and Canada for abandoned dogs. The Gudenkaufs appeared on television and in print and online media and met with high-ranking government officials to promote a bill that would create Mongolia's first animal rights law.