Patch Whiz Kid of the Week: Jodi Bronfman

Age:  10

School:  Carderock Springs Elementary School

Accomplishment: Animal lover Jodi Bronfman spearheaded two charity drives to benefit the Montgomery County Humane Society, providing much-needed supplies to homeless animals.

“We – and the animals – depend on volunteers of all ages,” said b j Altschul, education director for the Montgomery County Humane Society.  “Even small jobs and small donations make a difference, and each individual animal you do something for here at the shelter gets a step closer to a new loving home.”

Reason for Awesomeness: Jodi originally planned to work directly with shelter animals, but discovered volunteers must be at least 18 years old. She decided to donate items that make shelter animals feel safe and comfortable.  

“Even though I couldn’t see the dogs, I knew that it would be good for them, and help them a lot,” said Jodi in a recent interview.

Jodi organized a drive to collect towels, sheets and other items from friends and neighbors. She soon filled the family car with donations.

“We especially appreciate the help that kids offer,” said Altschul. “It’s cool when they put their heart and soul into collecting tons of towels and blankets, or making pet beds or other service projects.  Shelter life can be very stressful for many animals, so all the 'comfort' projects go a long way to making things better for them.”

“Jodi received a very nice letter from the shelter,” said her mother Lisa. “I was proud that she collected enough items to really make a difference.”

Key to Awesomeness:  When Jodi’s Girl Scout Troop wanted to give back to their community, Jodi suggested a drive to benefit the Humane Society.

“All the girls like animals,” said Jodi, “so we all voted and agreed to help homeless pets.” Each scout collected items to give. “We filled ten or eleven big boxes,” said Jodi. The troop proudly took to donations to the shelter, and was treated to a visit with the animals.   

Over the weekend, Jodi’s family adopted a new puppy named Zoe from a local shelter. “Seeing the dogs in the shelter gave Jodi a new appreciation for giving Zoe a happy home,” said Lisa.

“If you love animals, there are a lot of animals that need a home,” said Jodi. “Even if you can’t adopt one, your donations make a difference.”

If, like Jodi, you are interested in improving the lives of homeless pets, here's a few ways you can help out:

Organize a towel, blanket, and cardboard toilet paper roll drive by collecting new or gently used bath towels, beach towels, bathroom rugs, sheets, hand towels, wash cloths, and blankets.

Hold a fundraiser, such as a bake sale, lemonade sale, or garage sale and donate the proceeds to MCHS.

Bake approved homemade dog treats for the homeless dogs using instructions on MCHS site.

Make needed items for shelter animals, such as “no-sew" pet beds, cat "loveys," fleece or cotton toys, and cage cards for shelter animals. Consider making a cat tree for rescue and foster cats, or even making "Adopt Me" bandanas.

Check the Montgomery County Humane Society website for instructions or to become a volunteer.