Sioux Falls, SD – In a heart‑warming display of compassion, 12‑year‑old Abrielle Fonder has turned her backyard garden into a fundraiser for the Sioux Falls Humane Society. By planting pumpkins and crafting homemade potpourri, she is raising money to help the organization provide food, shelter and medical treatment for cats and dogs in need.
From Seed to Sale
Abrielle began the effort by planting pumpkin seeds in the spring. As the vines grew, she harvested the pumpkins, set up a small stand and began selling them to neighbors and passersby. The idea quickly expanded when she started making scented potpourri using dried flowers and herbs, adding another product line to her fundraiser.
Community Support
“It was just amazing to learn that a 12‑year‑old girl decided to plant pumpkins, raised money to sell them, went through that whole process, and then give the money to the Humane Society to help all the cats and dogs here,” said Jami Grates Grieve, executive director of the Sioux Falls Humane Society. “Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference for the animals we serve.”
Why She’s Doing It
When asked about her motivation, Abrielle explained, “Because every animal doesn’t have a good home, and every animal deserves to have a good home.” Her love for animals extends to her own pet, a dog named Sunkist, and she hopes the project will inspire other young people to give back.
Family Encouragement
Abrielle’s father, Mark Fonder, praised his daughter’s generosity. “Hopefully she can inspire other kids to give back,” he said. He added that the fundraiser teaches valuable lessons about responsibility, stewardship and the joy of helping neighbors.
Impact on the Humane Society
The Sioux Falls Humane Society, a nonprofit dedicated to rescuing and caring for stray and abandoned animals, relies heavily on community donations. Funds from Abrielle’s pumpkin and potpourri sales will be directed toward veterinary care, nutritious meals and temporary shelter for animals awaiting adoption.
How Others Can Help
Local residents who wish to support the cause can purchase pumpkins or potpourri directly from Abrielle’s stand, which is set up near the Fonder family home on weekends. Additional donations can be made through the Humane Society’s website, where contributors can specify that their gift is earmarked for animal care supplies.
Looking Ahead
Abrielle hopes to expand her fundraiser next year, adding new seasonal items and involving more friends in the effort. “I want to keep helping animals as I grow up,” she said, emphasizing that her commitment to compassion is a lifelong goal.
The Humane Society encourages anyone interested in volunteering, fostering, or adopting to contact their office. As the community rallies around Abrielle’s initiative, the message is clear: caring for our four‑legged neighbors begins with simple acts of kindness.
Original reporting: Dakota News Now KSFY Sioux Falls (local) — read the source article.
