An Arnprior 10-year-old has combined two of her favourite things – animals and reading – for a special fundraiser she’s hosting for the second year in a row.
Rory’s Fundraiser for the Arnprior and District Humane Society runs this Saturday at Antiques, Treasures and Treats, which is owned by her grandparents, Judy and Mike Wilson. Rory will have handmade bookmarks, as well as cookies, for sale.
Judy says Rory, who just finished Grade 4 at St. John XXIII School, has been working all year to prepare for the fundraiser.
Judy tells us that Rory got through the pandemic because her best friend – her big orange tabby cat, Barny – was always by her side.
“When Barny passed away, Rory and Daddy visited the Arnprior Humane Society to see if they would find a connection with any of the kitties who lived there. Rory was in heaven,” she said.
“She fell in love with the place. So much so, that for her birthday outing, she wanted to visit the kitties there. After a few visits, they chose two new members of their family,” said Judy.
Along this journey, Rory learned the Humane Society relies heavily on donations and that sometimes they struggle.
“She decided to try to help. She began to make bookmarks and thought maybe she could sell them for a dollar,” said Judy. “We convinced her to charge $5 so that her efforts would raise a little more for the shelter. Last year she made 40 but ran out early, so this year she made 65!”
Rory will also be selling cookies because that is another love of hers, said Judy. She figured if she ran out of bookmarks, at least people could have a cookie.
She will also be collecting supplies for the shelter. Cat food, cat litter, treats, paper towels and bleach are always on their wish list.
Rory’s family is very proud of her and her philanthropic tendencies are apparently rubbing off.
Judy said Rory’s little brother even made a few bookmarks this year.
“He is a six-year-old sports fan so his are shaped like Nike shoes,” she said.
The fundraiser is this Saturday, July 6 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Find Antiques, Treasures and Treats at 260 Elgin St. West in Arnprior.
(Written by Sherry Haaima)
Rory at last year’s sale. (Judy Wilson photo)
The Arnprior and District Humane Society is cause near and dear to Rory’s heart. (Judy Wilson photo)