Friday, May 2, 2008

For Immediate Release

Media Contact:  Beth Maresh or Laura Nowlin

Direct:  (262) 377-7580

Ozaukee Children Recognized for Kindness

Grafton, Wis. – James Zipter is a pint-sized kid with a big heart.  While other 6-year-olds make multiple-paged birthday present lists or nag mom and dad for the newest video game, James celebrated his birthday a little differently.  He asked his classmates at Thorson Elementary to bring in presents. For homeless animals.

When Ozaukee Humane Society staff opened the door to James’ family, they were surprised to see bags and boxes of much-needed supplies.  Behind the bags of cat litter, dog toys, bleach and food, a boy was beaming.

Amazingly, James is among several kids in Ozaukee County who seem to be blazing new trails as young philanthropists.  Not only do these kids care about animals and want to help those less fortunate, their enthusiasm for helping others is contagious. 

“We are constantly amazed by the generosity of children in the area. Not only do school groups raise impressive funds for the shelter, but individual children take the initiative to help animals all by themselves. We are seeing more and more kids every year who are concerned about animals and donate birthday presents, Christmas gifts or even their proceeds from lemonade stands,” notes Beth Maresh, Director of Program Services at OHS. 

You can meet James on Sunday, as well as many other children who have contributed through their art, poetry, photography or selfless acts to help OHS animals and perhaps, help us adults, too.

WHAT:      Be Kind to Animals Awards Ceremony
WHEN:      Saturday, May 3, 2008, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
WHERE:    Grafton Public Library, 1620 11th Ave, Grafton, WI
WHO:        Children and adults from around Ozaukee County   

                  who have shown great compassion for animals over

                  the past year will be awarded.
WHY:        This year, Be Kind to Animals Week will be celebrated

                  nationally from May 4-10. The Ozaukee Humane

                  Society joins humane organizations across the nation

                  in recognizing the important role that animals play in

                  everyone’s lives. This week is also a time to educate

                  everyone about the importance of treating all animals

                  with compassion.

 

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Interview/Photo Op: Laura Nowlin and Beth Maresh from OHS will be available for questions. Please contact Angela Speed at 414.431.6104 if you can attend. Thank you!