“Young people inspire us daily,” says Karen Patterson, director of humane education and volunteering at the Humane Society of Huron Valley (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.”

To celebrate youth who are making a positive impact on the lives of animals in Washtenaw County, Plymouth and Northville, HSHV is calling for entries for the Humane Youth Award.

“There are few things more beautiful than the bond between young people and animals,” says 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 1.

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 27 at 4 p.m.

2018 Humane Youth Award Winners Claire Roffi, Kaitlin Barrett-Huff and Emilia Callan