The fifth-grader at Numa Elementary School, in Fallon, Nevada, decided his tenth birthday would be a little bit different. Instead of gifts for himself, he asked family and friends to bring donations for shelter animals. The donations would be given to the Churchill Animal Protection Society (CAPS).

"CAPS is a local organization that depends on donations to care for the cats and dogs there," Zack explains. "I really love animals, so I thought it would be cool to help them out."

Pile o' Presents
At first glance, Zack's party didn't look unusual. Like most birthday bashes, guests arrived carrying brightly wrapped packages. Some, however, were struggling under the weight of huge bags of dog food!

"I received 213 pounds of dog food, some feeding dishes, and chew toys for
dogs!" exclaims Zack.  "Later, I got $15 more, which I used to buy 35 pounds of cat food."

Would Zack do it again next year? You bet! "My toy box doesn't really need any more toys," he admits. "And, I feel good about myself and what I did. I'd encourage other kids who care about animals to do it too!"

Thinking of having a party like Zack's? Call your local animal shelter and ask what items are needed. List the items on your invitations!

Zack Keener, right, and brother Nate enjoyed Zack's birthday party−and
so did shelter animals! (Photo credit: Bob Keener/Fallon Star Press)