See How This 15-Year-Old Helped Animals at Her Local Shelter

Not quite old enough to volunteer at an animal shelter? Follow 15-year-old Leah’s lead: She donated over $1,000 worth of items to her local shelter in Stamford, Connecticut! 👏👏👏

Leah, a sophomore at Stamford High School, has loved dogs since she was a child and wants to help them however she can, including by becoming a veterinarian. When she started the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme, which connects students’ schoolwork to the real world, she saw her chance to do something iconic.

Animals at shelters have been through it. They might have been lost, homeless, stray, abandoned, or rescued from dangerous situations before being admitted. Shelters give animals the safety, comfort, and care they deserve, so it’s crucial that they have the supplies they need. Enter Leah.

This was important to me because I feel like so many people don’t understand how these animals live, how they grew up, and where they came from. —Leah

She talked to shelter staff and learned that they can always use stuff like food, crates, leashes, and collars. Then, she created an IG account for the project, made eye-catching posts, and started raising donations from family, friends, and other community members. Within a few months, she had enough money for two shopping carts full of supplies. 🤯

Amped to help shelters after reading that? Know that any amount of supplies is helpful—whether it fills a shopping cart, a basket, or a tiny tote bag. Shelters will always be grateful for donations, and even giving a few toys or blankets can mean the world to an anxious dog or cat who needs some happiness in their life. 💞

While visiting the shelter, Leah also learned that adopting animals > buying animals. Every time someone buys an animal from a “pet” store or a breeder, another one is bred to take their place, while a homeless animal misses out on a chance for a family. Reputable shelters, though, never add more animals to a world without enough homes for them. Yet another reason why Leah’s fundraiser was a top-tier move.

I learned that you should adopt, not shop, and always help the community when you can. —Leah

For helping make animals’ shelter stays as comfortable as possible, peta2 is presenting Leah with our Hero to Animals Award!

Thanks so much for setting an example we can all follow, Leah. Animals in shelters are lucky to have you standing up for them!

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So many students take time out of their busy schedule to help shelters. Check out how this group of friends raised a ton of money through candy bar sales and a GoFundMe. 💸