Nine Year Old's Birthday Party Helps Animals

Many parents and kids struggle each year with themes for their birthday party. For Richelle Matarazzo, a third grader from Hillside Elementary in Roswell, there was no question what she wanted to do. She held a fundraiser for a local animal shelter.

Party guests were invited to a sidewalk pet adoption held by the Humane League of Lake Lanier. Richelle had to limit the amount of friends she could invite, and instructed them that any gifts should be for the animals. With help from her mother Cathryn and sister Genna, Richelle's party held a bake sale and for 3 hours peddled homemade cookies, brownies and muffins. They raised over $300 for the shelter.

It was all Richelle's initiative to do something to help animals, said Cathryn, it was her idea to ask friends to bring baked goods or donations instead of gifts. All the party guests enjoyed the unique celebration, especially helping out with the dogs and cats. And what did the 9-year-old birthday girl who didn't get any presents think? Best party ever! exclaimed Richelle, who's only regret is she did not go home with an adopted puppy.