Most animal lovers know that the human animal bond often begins at a young age. Here at ARL, we are so fortunate to have the steadfast support of many incredible young supporters in Berks County who are fiercely dedicated to changing the lives of shelter pets one day at a time. No matter your age, there is something everybody can do to make the shelter a better place for animals in need. Wondering how? Here are some easy ways Berks County youth can get involved at ARL today!
1. Host your own donation drive
If your child has a birthday or other big milestone coming up, a donation drive can be a meaningful way for loved ones to celebrate with them.
Not sure what people should donate? Check out our wishlist page here, which includes a printable list for guests to keep on hand while they’re out shopping for the cause!
How we can help: We are eager and ready to help make your child’s birthday fundraiser a big success! We would love to update you on our most vital needs at the shelter, help unload donations, get a photo of the donations to share to our In Gratitude webpage, and invite you to the shelter for a tour of our facility.
2. Host your own lemonade stand or bake sale
Sure, it sounds old school, but who can resist a refreshing lemonade or tasty treat on a hot summer day, especially knowing the proceeds will go directly towards shelter pets in need of sanctuary? Many children get excited to create a one-of-a-kind lemonade stand or bake sale with signage about supporting animals at ARL, and it can be a great project to encourage leadership, responsibility, and feelings of pride in giving back to the community.
How we can help: By letting us know when the lemonade stand is happening ahead of time, we would be happy to provide you with brochures or literature to display at the stand. We can also send an adoptable animal or ARL alumni to your stand if we are able to do so, though we ask for your understanding that we can never guarantee animal attendance at an event. If you are tech-savvy and up to the task, we are also happy to add your event on our Facebook page if you add us as a co-host.
3. Not feeling up to selling lemonade? Try some of these unique fundraisers!
Using creativity and organizational skills, your child can plan and host fundraising events to gather much-needed resources for the ARL. From car washes to selling pet-themed arts and crafts, there are countless ways to engage your peers and community members in supporting shelter pets in need. Not only will you raise funds, but you’ll also raise awareness about the ARL’s mission, inspiring others to get involved and make a difference!
Want some inspiration? Check out some of these creative fundraising events from local Berks County youth!
4. Make toys for the animals!
For all the crafty kids out there, there are many fun toys to make for the animals that will help them receive the enrichment and stimulation they need to soothe themselves throughout the day. Thankfully, if you don’t know where to start, we created our own toy-making guide featuring our animals’ favorite toys for you to get some inspiration!
5. Educate and Advocate
Knowledge is a powerful tool for change. Let your children feel empowered to educate friends, classmates, and family members about responsible pet ownership, the importance of adopting animals from shelters, and the significance of spaying and neutering pets. Your family can also utilize social media platforms to share adoptables, upcoming ARL events, and other updates from the shelter!
By the way, you can follow us on social media to share updates from our shelter using the links below.
Remember, compassion knows no age, and by embracing empathy and taking action, your child can make a difference in the lives of animals in Berks County today! Whether your child chooses to host a donation drive, sell lemonade, educate their peers, or anything in between, these acts of kindness can be life-changing for our animals, and we would love to support them in their philanthropic efforts. For our youngest supporters, we are happy to provide learning opportunities and tours of the shelter to show them the impact of their kindness to the animals!
Is your child ready to get started with their fundraiser?
We can’t wait to learn more! Please contact Development and Communications Specialist Alison Kleinsmith at 610-621-4576 or akleinsmith@berksarl.org to get in touch on coordinating the details.
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