Who’s our community’s Most Humane Youth? Humane society launches first ever local award

Celebrating youth who are making a positive impact on the lives of animals in Washtenaw County, Plymouth, and Northville, the Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV) is launching its first-ever local award.

“Young people inspire us daily,” says Karen Patterson, director of humane education and volunteering at the HSHV. “They donate their birthday gifts to animals, take time to read to and calm animals in shelters, and ultimately teach all of us adults to be more compassionate people. The Humane Youth Award is a way to celebrate that.”

“There are few things more beautiful than the bond between young people and animals,” adds Tanya Hilgendorf, HSHV’s CEO and president. “Young people have a unique ability to feel empathy for animals, untainted by what we adults often grow immune to or decide to accept. This award recognizes their remarkable connection, passion and ability to make a difference in the lives of animals.”

One winner and two runners-up will receive the Humane Youth Award. All will receive one-of-a-kind plaques, and the winner will be recognized at HSHV’s elegant Compassionate Feast banquet on November 9^th—a fundraiser and roast of local celebrity and best-selling author John U. Bacon.

Winners will be selected on the basis of how they’ve helped local animals, the number of animals and how long they’ve helped, and the uniqueness and sustainability of their project(s). Nominees must be between the ages of 12 and 17 and reside in Washtenaw County, Plymouth or the city of Northville.

Nominate someone at www.hshv.org/hya. Nominations close September 28 at 4 pm.

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.