Young people today have to deal with more life complications than my generation did. Many children end up getting into drugs and alcohol. Some of these kids end up ruining their lives; some meet an untimely death. Unfortunately these are the kids we hear about on the evening news.
I think the media needs to shift their focus to the positive and inform people about the good kids out there. Kids who set an example for other children are the ones that should be making the news.
This year Animals Best Friends received several donations from special kids, and we would like to recognize them for their compassion and altruism.
Andi Swee turned 12 this year. She informed everyone who was attending her birthday party that she did not want presents for herself. She told them the party was to benefit the homeless animals at ABF and she asked them to bring donations. After the party Andi and her mother, Jodi Swee, showed up at our building with dog and cat food, cat litter, bleach, newspapers, treats, a small bed and $300. Jodi told me that Andi wrote notes to all her guests thanking them for making this a great birthday that she would never forget.
Emma Cunningham turned 10 this year. She donated $50 of her birthday money to ABF. Emma’s mother, Michelle says her daughter has been “into animals” all her life. Emma began having birthday parties to benefit animals when she was 8. She has gone as far as to enlist her friends to join her in volunteering at the Independence Animal Shelter. Emma feels empathy for animals in need. She tells her mother that she wants to be an ASPCA animal cop when she grows up. Emma’s love of animals and desire to give back to the community make her a very special girl.
Julia Cooper is 3 years old. Her parents had pets when Julia was born so she has been growing up with animals around her. On Julia’s birthday and every Christmas, Julia’s parents choose a charity to receive donations on Julia’s behalf. Julia’s mother, Sondra Cooper, said they believe ABF is a great organization, so we were chosen to receive donations from Julia’s third birthday party. Sondra brought Julia with her when they delivered loads of food, cat litter, toys, treats, and supplies. Sondra said that Julia is still talking about “taking toys and food to the puppies and kitties that don’t have mommies and daddies the way her animals do.” This wonderful family intends to continue its tradition of giving.
