The Mystic Krewe of Mardi Paws

The Mystic Krewe of Mardi Paws parade is a major fundraiser for the Ian Somerhalder Foundation & Scott’s Wish.

The Ian Somerhalder Foundation (ISF), an IRS recognized 501c3 founded by Louisiana born actor, environmentalist and animal advocate Ian Somerhalder, is dedicated to empowering, educating and collaborating with people and projects to positively impact the
planet and its creatures. ISF raises awareness about environmental and animal protection issues, supports initiatives to promote green energy, global conservation programs, and empowers youth to become a united and spirited force for change. ISF's Emergency Medical Care Grants provide financial assistance for the care of animals recovering from abuse,neglect, and injuries; easing the financial stress of treatment so that rescuers can focus on an
animal's adoption into a permanent, loving home. The grant program has helped thousands of creatures to date. Somerhalder, who grew up in Covington, Louisiana, purchased 100 acres of land near
Mandeville with the intention of preserving about 70 acres of bayou and using the other 30 acres to support pet projects that serve the needs of animals, youth and the community at large. The acreage, nestled in the middle of an area that is rapidly urbanizing in St. Tammany Parish Louisiana, encompasses three eco-systems along the eastern half of Bayou Lacombe and is home to many species of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians.

Scott’s Wish is an IRS recognized 501c3 made up of volunteers in the Northshore community helping others who have life threatening illnesses. We’ve helped young and old who are going through all phases of cancer treatment, heart disease, organ transplants,
newborn birth defects, and ALS patients. Scott's Wish was named for Scott Lala who succumbed to Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) in January of 2008. The purpose of the organization is to charitably assist patients, families, and caretakers with the cost of travel,
lodging and related expenses necessary for treatment and care of those persons suffering from leukemia or other devastating illnesses. Scott’s Wish works closely with social services at leading children’s hospitals and research facilities to close the gap of financial need and offer help for unusual assistance requests such as car repairs, storage fees, wheelchair ramps, etc. Every request is reviewed and funded in some capacity.