February 20th—President’s Day—was a little furrier than usual at the Culver City Senior Center thanks to Girl Scouts Melanie Marx and Hermela Amanuel. The girls, from Troop 1615, partnered with Michelson Found Animals Adopt and Shop to bring adoptable cats and dogs to the Center.
Melanie and Hermela were asked to identify an issue that was important to them and then to create a project within the Culver City community that would help raise awareness. The girls chose “The Health Benefits of Pets for Senior Citizens.” Martin Feinberg, Realtor, is not surprised that the girls chose to help senior citizens. Culver City Real Estate encompasses a community that sees value in all ages.
Aimee Gilbreath, Executive Director of the Michelson Found Animals Foundation, stated, “There is a growing body of scientific research showing that people are happier and healthier in the presence of animals and these remarkable girls wanted to make a difference in their community…. When we first heard of the opportunity to be a part of this it was a no-brainer for us as we champion the mutually beneficial health benefits of people and pets. We are so thrilled to see children wanting to get involved with animals and to help those in their community.”
The project, titled “Pet-a-Pet Day”, took place from 9:30-11:30 a.m. on the 20th. Through it Melanie and Hermela were able to receive their Girl Scouts Silver Award. It is the second highest award a Girl Scout can earn. Martin Feinberg, Culver City Realtor, congratulates the girls on their achievement.