A student-led initiative in Airdrie is proving that age is no barrier to making a meaningful difference, especially when it comes to helping animals in need.<\/p>\n
Katie Warcimaga, a Grade 11 Airdrie student and founder of the Animal Science and Vet Club, recently helped lead the group\u2019s first major community initiative: a holiday fundraiser supporting Tails to Tell Animal Rescue and the Alberta Rescue Foundation (ARF).<\/p>\n
The club, which focuses on hands-on learning and real-world experience in animal science and veterinary care, raised more than $1,000 in just a few weeks while also collecting a large volume of much-needed pet supplies.<\/p>\n
The Animal Science and Vet Club was created to give students an opportunity to explore animal-related careers while giving back to the community. According to Warcimaga, the idea grew out of both personal passion and a recognized need.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019ve always been interested in animal care and veterinary science. Starting this club felt like a way to turn that interest into something meaningful for the community.\u201d<\/p>\n
The group operates as a student-led organization, focusing on education, leadership, and service. While school-specific details are still being finalized, the club is already making an impact beyond the classroom.<\/p>\n
Holiday Fundraiser Supports Local Animal Rescues<\/p>\n
The club\u2019s first initiative included an online CanadaHelps fundraising campaign and a\u00a0school-wide pet supply drive<\/p>\n
Donations included:<\/p>\n
All proceeds and supplies were split between the two rescues. Members recently delivered donations to Tails to Tell Animal Rescue in Crossfield<\/a>, where they were also given a tour of the facility. A second delivery to Alberta Rescue Foundation<\/a> is planned for early January.<\/p>\n \u201cThese donations go directly toward animal care and rescue efforts,\u201d Warcimaga said. \u201cIt was an amazing learning experience for all of us.\u201d<\/p>\n With early success behind them, the Animal Science and Vet Club is already looking ahead. Future plans may include:<\/p>\n The goal is to help students explore potential career paths while continuing to support local animal-related organizations.<\/p>\n \u201cThis club is about giving students real experiences and helping them see how science applies to the real world,\u201d Warcimaga said.<\/p>\n How to Get Involved<\/p>\n While the club is currently based within one Airdrie high school, students who are interested in animal science, veterinary care, or volunteering are encouraged to follow along online.<\/p>\n The club can be found on Instagram at: \u201cNo experience is needed,\u201d Warcimaga added. \u201cJust curiosity, a willingness to learn, and a passion for animals.\u201d<\/p>\n Community support played a key role in the fundraiser\u2019s success, with both students and local residents contributing. The initiative stands as a strong example of how youth leadership and community collaboration can create positive change, for animals and for Airdrie as a whole.<\/p>\n
\n@asvc.club<\/p>\n