At Heidebreicht Chevrolet, giving back to our community has always been an important part of who we are. This June, we’re proud to participate in Chevy Detroit’s Pickups for Paws campaign by collecting much-needed donations for Marty’s Place for Animals, a local nonprofit sanctuary dedicated to providing exceptional care for rescued and rehabilitated animals.
We invite our customers, neighbors, and community members to join us in making a difference. Every donation—big or small—helps provide food, shelter, and essential supplies for the incredible animals that call Marty’s Place home.
Supporting a Local Sanctuary That Makes a Difference
Located in Bruce Township, Michigan, Marty’s Place for Animals is a nonprofit animal preserve and sanctuary that provides a safe, loving environment for a wide variety of animals. In addition to caring for rescued animals, the sanctuary offers educational experiences, volunteer opportunities, and a peaceful destination where visitors can learn about wildlife and animal care while enjoying nature.
Marty’s Place is home to numerous species, including:
- Elk
- Bison
- Deer
- Goats
- Sheep
- German Shepherds
- Peacocks
- Swans
- Ducks
- Geese
- Turkeys
- Quail
- Pheasants
- Various native waterfowl
The sanctuary continues to grow thanks to the generosity of volunteers, donors, and supporters throughout Southeast Michigan.
The Inspiring Story Behind Marty’s Place
Marty’s Place was founded from the lifelong passion of Marty Clauw, a man remembered by family, friends, and the local community for his extraordinary compassion toward both people and animals.
While Marty owned Elegant Jewelers in Shelby Township, his true passion was creating a sanctuary where rescued animals could live safely and comfortably. Beginning in 2007, he transformed his Bruce Township property into a haven for animals rescued from difficult circumstances, including hunting ranches and neglect situations.
Anyone who knew Marty recognized his generous spirit. Whether he was driving through town with several dogs happily riding in his vehicle, welcoming visitors to meet the animals on his farm, or supporting missionary work in Kenya, Marty dedicated his life to helping others.
His dream was to establish a nonprofit sanctuary that would not only protect animals but also create an accessible space where people of all abilities could connect with nature and wildlife.
Tragically, Marty lost his life in a car accident while traveling on a missionary trip to Kenya. Although he is no longer with us, his legacy continues through the sanctuary he built and the animals he loved so deeply.
As the team at Marty’s Place beautifully shares:
“As long as you are remembered after your death, and your memory is helping and inspiring people, you are not dead. Marty’s spirit—what a spirit—will live on forever.”
Today, dedicated staff and volunteers continue carrying out Marty’s vision every single day.
How You Can Help
Throughout the month of June, Heidebreicht Chevrolet is serving as a donation drop-off location for Chevy Detroit’s Pickups for Paws campaign.
The sanctuary is currently collecting many essential items, including:
- Whole corn
- Purina Nature’s Match Sow & Pig Feed
- Dumor Sheep & Goat DQ Medicated Grain (for both sheep and goats)
- Layer chicken pellets
- Layer chicken crumbles
- Animal cracker tubs
- 4health Salmon & Potato dog food
- Pine shavings for bedding
- Deer mineral blocks with corn
- Horse treats (any flavor)
- Floating or drain plug water heaters for water troughs
- $50 Lowe’s Gift Cards
- $25 or $50 Tractor Supply Company Gift Cards
If you’re unable to shop in person, you can also support the sanctuary by purchasing needed supplies directly from Marty’s Place for Animals’ Amazon Wish List.
Every donation helps provide food, bedding, enrichment, and daily care for the hundreds of animals living at the sanctuary.
Visit Heidebreicht Chevrolet and Make a Difference
When communities come together, incredible things happen. Whether you’re visiting our dealership for a new Chevrolet, routine vehicle service, or simply passing through, we encourage you to bring along a donation to help support Marty’s Place for Animals.
Your generosity helps ensure rescued animals continue receiving the care they deserve while supporting a local organization that has positively impacted our community for years.
From everyone at Heidebreicht Chevrolet, thank you for helping us make this year’s Chevy Detroit Pickups for Paws campaign a success. Together, we can continue Marty’s legacy of compassion—one donation at a time.
