Hinsdale Humane Society Recognizes Young Donors

Submitted by the Hinsdale Humane Society. Photo:Big Hearts for Little Paws member, Maggie, age 9, made a monetary Christmas donation to Hinsdale Humane Society to help with the care of homeless animals.

During 2014, Hinsdale Humane Society (HHS) recognized more than 130 children for their generous contributions to the shelter. These donors, typically 5 -13 years old, are members of the shelter’s Big Hearts for Little Paws Club. Because so many charitable children have come forward in the past few years, HHS created the honorary club in 2013 to give them special acknowledgement.

Through the children’s efforts and generosity, HHS has received monetary donations totaling multiple hundreds of dollars over the past year, as well as an abundance of pet food, toys, and shelter supplies. “The children’s ingenuity, creativity, and commitment to find ways to help homeless animals at the shelter is really amazing,” said Kym Iffert, HHS Humane Educator. Some have celebrated birthdays, requesting pet items instead of gifts, while others have donated allowance or savings. Proceeds from lemonade stands, craft items, a piano recital, and other activities were also given to the shelter.

HHS hosts a quarterly party for contributors, focusing on different aspects of the shelter so the children can see how their donations are used and how they impact the success of the shelter’s work. Attendees watch a video detailing the shelter, interact with a therapy dog, take a behind-the-scenes tour, and may have an opportunity to play with kittens or puppies. “I am continually touched by how the compassion and love of animals and concern for their well-being has inspired these children, with the support of their families, to reach out to HHS,” said Iffert.

Big Hearts for Little Paws complements other shelter-related activities for older children and teens. Children, at least 12 years old, accompanied by an adult can volunteer as cat socializers. Teens, at least 16 years old, are able to volunteer for a variety of shelter activities. In addition, high school students are eligible to join the HHS Jr. Board, assisting with shelter events and developing youth-centered projects. For more information about any of these activities or programs, please contact Kym Iffert athumane.ed@hinsdalehumanesociety.org or visit Hinsdalehumanesociety.org