The power of two young voices… were felt throughout Waggoner Elementary School and its community when first graders Vita Mendez and Delaney Shelton were inspired by a story shared by their teacher Miss Divsalar after finding a stray dog. These two girls were so touched by the story they had decided that day with the help of their Dads, they would build their own animal shelter to house homeless animals. The persistence of these six years old would not waiver in the days ahead and with the encouragement of their teacher and parents along with the support of Principal Ken Helling and the student council members their idea was transformed into that of a school wide donation drive. The donation drive lasted two weeks and was aimed to assist those who are helping to provide shelter and care for the increasingly large number of homeless animals. They were overwhelmed by the response of the student body, parents, friends and family members of the Waggoner Wildcats! We were able to collect an estimated 900 lbs. of dog food, 100 lbs of cat food, collars, leashes, toys, blankets, bowls and even kennels. Their love of animals and wantonness’ to help became as infectious as the common cold. There should be a great sense of pride in Miss Divsalars classroom and within the halls of Waggoner Elementary. With house foreclosures, job loss and our current economic conditions affecting so many Valley families, local animal shelters were taking in an unprecedented 200 animals per day based on recent estimations. The shelters have been overwhelmed with the large numbers of animals, leading to the creation of such entities as the LostOurHome.org “A nonprofit group of real estate professionals who rescue pets left behind due to foreclosures or other financial hardship.” These loving people have done a remarkable job housing, placing and fostering animals, often left abandoned in once occupied homes with no food, water or care. The girls were thrilled to deliver the contributions to one of its key foster homes who currently is caring for almost 50 dogs, a few horses and one temperamental goat who finally had a place to call home. “Don” not only fosters animals but also sits on the board of LostOurHomePetFoundation. The girls and their families were honored to assist in this noble cause. With the inspiration of one teacher, the support of a school and family along with the generosity and care within the community, these girls found that they truly can make a difference. Maybe their experience will inspire others to get involved with their own community as well.