Lilly Petzold made out like a bandit on her birthday. She got a box of Milk-Bones, trash bags, paper towels, and 25 pounds of kitty litter. And that's just the beginning.

Lilly had her party at the Round-A-Bout Skating Center in North Carolina. When invitations went out, guests were asked not to bring games or toys—unless they were cat or dog toys. Lilly asked for things she could donate to Animal Haven, a local shelter.

"I got the idea after thinking about all the cats and dogs who don't have homes," she explains. "My older brother, Jack, made a good point too. He said if I got a bunch of presents for my birthday, that would mean more stuff to pick up." Lilly smiles and admits, "I don't like cleaning my room."

A Party with Heart
Animal Haven of Cumberland County currently cares for about 60 dogs and cats. "We always need everything, from pet supplies to cleaning supplies," says one of the shelter's directors, Sarah O'Hanlon. "Birthday parties like Lilly's are a great idea—and such a big help."

"Lilly's school stresses good character," adds her mom, Bridget. "Kids are taught not just the three R's—reading, 'riting, 'rithmetic—but also respect and responsibility. They learn the importance of helping others.