Billo’s Dog Treats

The Mary Lee Foundation is proud to announce an exciting new initiative: Billo’s Dog Treats a unique program blending sustainability, community, and purpose. By repurposing spent grain generously donated by Hold Out Brewing, the foundation is crafting healthy, all-natural dog treats while providing meaningful vocational training for adults with disabilities. Participants in the program engage in every step of the process, from production to packaging, gaining hands-on experience and valuable job skills in a supportive environment. This initiative not only reduces waste but also empowers individuals with disabilities by giving them a sense of accomplishment and a tangible way to contribute to their community.

Paws and Community: A Collaboration with Heart

These all-natural dog treats are a special partnership, blending sustainability with purpose. Made with spent grain from Hold Out’s craft brews a beloved Austin brewery rooted in community since 2020. Each treat supports vocational training for adults with disabilities at Mary Lee. Every bite helps empower our residents with job skills, confidence, and a sense of belonging. Together, we’re turning local beer into meaningful change one wag at a time.

Who is Billo?

Billy Rohleder, one of Mary Lee’s clients, comes from a family of artists. Early on, he developed his natural talent for creating comic books and book characters. Using his imagination, he enjoys telling stories with his art. His book, Billo’s World (written and illustrated by Billy and Published by Primedia eLaunch), is a story about a wealthy human sized sock monkey.  Billo discovers money isn’t everything.  He learns that it helps to be caring and giving, as well. Billo is an interesting character because he’s full of surprises. Billy’s illustrations are wonderfully playful. Billy also paints large canvases of Billo. In his spare time, Billy has learned to play guitar and piano. He also raises exotic animals, such as pythons, boas, and turtles. Billy donates his art to charity and shares it with others.