Press Releases

Friday, May 2, 2008

For Immediate Release

Media Contact:  Angela Speed

 (414) 431-6104  aspeed@wihumane.org

MEDIA ADVISORY/PHOTO OPPORTUNITY                        

Wisconsin Humane Society to Present Kindness Awards

MILWAUKEE – When Frankie Bielewicz told her parents that she wanted to donate $185 of her own money to homeless animals, they were quite surprised. Sure, they knew she was a great kid, but most twelve year old girls are more concerned with Hannah Montana and iPods than Mr. Whiskers at the local shelter.

Amazingly, Frankie is among several kids in the Milwaukee area 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 WHS.

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

WHAT: Be Kind to Animals Awards Ceremony

WHEN: Sunday, May 4, 2008 1:00p.m. – 2:00p.m.

WHERE: Wisconsin Humane Society, 4500 W. Wisconsin Ave.

WHO: Children and adults from around the Greater Milwaukee area who have shown great compassion for animals over the past year will be awarded. A cat will also be receiving an award for demonstrating heroic actions to save his family during a fire.

WHY: The Wisconsin 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: A WHS staff member will be available for questions. Please contact Angela Speed at 414.431.6104 or Dezarae Hartwig Jones at 414.431.6159 if you can attend. Thank you!