The Poplar Bluff Middle School has donated approximately $2,200 to the Animal Welfare Alliance of Southeast Missouri, further solidifying its partnership with the regional nonprofit animal shelter.
During its inaugural fundraiser last school year, the Middle School generated around the same amount for the AWA in a collaboration with the High School Student Council. This year, the younger students produced the entire donation independently, with the Middle School Student Council spearheading the effort.
“StuCo was very happy to raise the money for AWA when it was presented,” stated math teacher Dr. Brandi Compass, sponsor of the Middle School student organization. “…I heard of AWA for the first time last year from a student who was volunteering there. So I was very happy to hear this was the organization they chose.”
The school's Art Department originally sponsored the fundraiser after a school connection was established with the AWA board. The art class raised over $700 of the total this year through stuffed animal “adoptions” and other such activities.
“They do it because they care. Most have pets or are [otherwise] sympathetic,” art instructor Kelly Lawson explained of the student's continued interest in supporting the organization. Colleague Veronica Brassfield added: “The kids love contributing there.”
The duo decided to hand over the reins of the service project to StuCo this year. The majority of the proceeds were collected as the result of a pumpkin decorating contest over which students held a penny war. Wayne County Produce donated a total of 80 pumpkins for the cause, Compass noted.
Having opened in 2022 at the former Hillcrest Animal Hospital building on South Westwood Boulevard, the AWA is approaching placement of 500 cats and dogs in forever homes, reported volunteer director Corretta Bishop. The no-kill shelter offers fixed pets with up-to-date shots for an adoption fee. The 501c3 also supplies vouchers for spaying and neutering to families in need in Butler, Carter, Ripley and Wayne counties. For additional information, visit www.awasemo.org.
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Cutline: (Front row, from left) Sixth graders Delaney Steffan and Madi Mae Maddox; and (back, left to right) teachers Veronica Brassfield and Dr. Brandi Compass, Corretta Bishop of the AWA, and instructor Kelly Lawson.