Kind Kids: Spring 2025
Welcome to our seasonal blog series, “Kind Kids,” where we celebrate the inspiring young individuals in our community who are making a difference for pets in need and spreading kindness! Each post will spotlight a young advocate who has shown exceptional compassion and generosity towards the Jacksonville Humane Society and pets in need.
This season we’re not just celebrating ONE Kind Kid but an entire club full of Kind Kids! Earlier this year, the EarlyAct Club at PVPV-Rawlings Elementary School decided they wanted to make a difference in the lives of homeless pets.
“I wanted to help animals in need,” club member Colette Heffernan explained when asked what inspired the club’s act of kindness.
The EarlyAct Club collected money by organizing a Spirit Week donation drive with students from their school. Through their hard work, they were able to raise an absolutely incredible $1,000 for the Jacksonville Humane Society’s Mutt March fundraiser, earning them the title of First Place Fundraising Team at the event!
“We felt proud and great that we are able to help,” the club shared.
In addition to raising money for JHS, the group also collected towels and blankets for the animals living in our shelter – enough to fill three cars! This was club member Ava Grimsley’s favorite part of the fundraiser.
“I was excited for how many we had to give to the Humane Society,” she said.
Reflecting on their experience fundraising and collecting towels and blankets for the pets at JHS, Ella Zamora said it was “rewarding” and that “it makes you feel good about yourself.” Auri Klone added, “It is nice to help others.” Their words bring to mind the JHS motto – generosity breeds joy – and show how acts of kindness can create happiness for both the giver and the receiver.
We are so grateful for the PVPV-Rawlings EarlyAct Club’s commitment to helping pets in our community. Their efforts prove that you can make a big difference no matter how old you are! As student Elizabeth Skeen puts it, “Don’t be afraid to help those in need.”
Thank you to all of the club members:
Harper
Beatrix
Adalyn
Auri
Gavin
Ensley
Mack
Athena
Rhealynn
Luke
Sophia
Catherine
David
Ava
Ava Rose
Evangeline
Lainie
Colette
Ella
William
Sofia
Learn more about how you can get involved:
Do you know a young animal advocate who you think should be featured in this series? We’d love to hear about them: