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Fifth-grader raises funds for homeless animals

by Jane Knoerle

At age 10, Helen Horangic of Menlo Park is "a tireless and passionate advocate for neglected and needy animals of all kinds," says her mom.

Helen, a fifth grader at Phillips Brooks School, lives in Menlo Park with her parents, Caroline Hubbard and Basil Horangic, and an older sister and brother. Because she is still too young to volunteer with any local animal rescue agencies (you have to be 13), she decided to launch "Helen's Hope for Homeless Animals" and raise funds for the Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA in Burlingame.

Helen's goal was to raise $500 for the shelter and to acquire as many items as she could from their published wish list. She sent out an e-mail to family, friends, and members of the community asking for donations of money or supplies. In addition to the online campaign, she prepared fliers and solicited donations door to door.

It worked. She surpassed her $500 goal, raising $1,595 in cash donations, as well as many supplies needed at the Burlingame facility. She will present her check and supplies to the Peninsula Humane Society on Sunday, Oct. 28. She will also receive a private, behind-the-scenes tour of the society's Tom and Annette Lantos Center for Compassion, where all adoptable animals are housed.

What caused a 10-year-old to become an animal advocate at such an early age? It's likely she was inspired by her aunt, Linda Lloyd, who is with a dog rescue organization in Canada, says her mom. "Whatever her future holds, I know Helen wants to be involved with animals."