Sussex Teen receives Award for Kindness

The Humane Animal Welfare Society (HAWS) has announced the recipient of the second annual Diana Boettcher Youth Community Kindness Award. The winner, Carly Perock, will receive her award on May 5th at HAWS’ 29th Annual Pet Walkathon.

Diana Boettcher was a Lac La Belle resident for nearly 60 years, caring equally for the animals and people in her neighborhood – her “family.” Diagnosed with terminal cancer and determined to stay in the only home she knew for her remaining days, friends and neighbors returned her kindness and helped make that possible until her passing in 2010.

“When people put their values into action they inspire others,” notes HAWS’ Executive Director Lynn Olenik. “HAWS was one of the benefactors of Diana’s kindness and for that reason we’ve created an award in her honor, designed to recognize youth who are inspirational through their acts of kindness. Often our compassionate sides stay in the background, with the many awards offered for academics or athletics. Strong values in our youth often don’t receive the recognition they should, but these values have a long-lasting impact on our community. HAWS recognizes that impact.”

The recipient of the 2012 Award, Carly Perock is a longtime volunteer and Critter Club member at HAWS. At just age 13, Carly already shows strong skills such as empathy and leadership. She always takes on the tougher volunteer tasks, partners well with other volunteers and is a true team player. Carly even demonstrated her passion for animal welfare through a fundraiser that she organized for HAWS, bringing in several hundred dollars to the shelter through her efforts. Through her enthusi¬asm and kindheartedness towards animals, Carly is a wonderful example of our future leaders in animal welfare.

The award will be presented during HAWS’ annual Walk at Sussex Village Park, at approximately 11:00 a.m. The community is invited to join in this celebration of pets, and to honor the values exemplified by Ms. Boettcher and Ms. Perock.