A local nonprofit organization dedicated to animal welfare is launching a donation drive to support the Washington Area Humane Society. Kids Excel with Pets is collecting funds and supplies through December 23, 2023, as part of its annual community outreach program aimed at providing food and toys for animals in need.
Founded in 2020 by Rebecca Simpson, Kids Excel with Pets primarily focuses on spaying and neutering cats and dogs. Simpson emphasizes the importance of children having pets, noting that positive relationships with animals can enhance a child’s self-esteem and teach them responsibility. “As a child develops positive feelings about their pet, it can contribute toward that child’s self-esteem and self-confidence,” she remarked.
The outreach program, named “Lilly’s Christmas Wish,” honors a dog recently adopted by a board member. The dog, which came from an abusive background, symbolizes the types of animals that the drive seeks to assist this holiday season. Simpson expressed her admiration for the Washington Area Humane Society, stating, “That’s a very good local organization … That’s a very professional outfit. I would like to help them.”
In previous years, Kids Excel with Pets has organized various initiatives, including sending gifts to military personnel overseas and conducting a toy drive for children affected by a hurricane in North Carolina. Simpson’s commitment to philanthropy is deeply personal; she has been inspired to help others during the holiday season since the tragic death of her daughter, Kelly Patterson, in 1987. Patterson died at the age of 17 in a car accident while on a hunting trip in Idaho. The logo for Kids Excel with Pets features a childhood drawing by Patterson.
“I always would give on her birthday and on Christmas to an organization … I just wouldn’t feel right not doing something special for her,” Simpson said. Looking ahead, she plans to continue “Lilly’s Christmas Wish” next year, with the intention of starting the donation drive earlier.
Individuals interested in contributing can send monetary donations to Kids Excel with Pets Inc. at P.O. Box 1641, Washington, PA, 15301-7641. Simpson encourages the community not only to donate but also to consider adopting animals from the humane society. “Maybe we could get some people to go down to the humane society and adopt some of these dogs for Christmas,” she suggested, highlighting the potential for giving animals a loving new home during the festive season.
