<p>this was my second essay (i personally think that the first is stronger) The prompt was basically to describe something you’ve done that has helped you learn and stuff</p>
<p>Growing up with two dogs and a minimum of six cats in the house at any given time made it predictable and quite inevitable that I would become an avid animal lover. From Sparkie, our dog that we rescued from an abusive owner, to our cat Blue who we found in a gutter, all of our animals are rescued. Having personally known what it feels like to rescue my pets, it brings me immeasurable joy to see others do the same for abandoned animals. Being the secretary of Humane Society Youth Club at my high school and coordinating my own event has given me an opportunity to put my love of animals to good use.</p>
<p>The contribution to the club, and to my community, that I am most proud of is my project with our local volunteer employed Alameda Animal Shelter. I have been collaborating with the Shelter in order to coordinate an adoption event in the spring of 2011. My goal with this event is to raise awareness in my town of homeless animals and to hopefully adopt out a great number of pets, not only the dainty adorable kittens, but the older and scruffier animals as well.</p>
<p>No matter how many times I visit the Shelter, the same pang of pity and sympathy for the animals in the cages never fails to enter my heart. One particular veteran at the shelter has claimed a spot in my memory–Hunter, a one eyed, long-legged, purring machine, and probably the most affectionate cat I have ever encountered. The very second I stepped in the room, Hunter was pressed against the cage bars; beckoning to me with meows, back arched, and paws reaching through the metal grid. While any animal gaining a forever home would bring me joy, seeing older or odd-ball animals adopted would give me a heightened sense of satisfaction.</p>
<p>With the generous help of my English teacher, a supply drive is also being held for the Shelter, asking for towels, food, and toys for the animals. In addition, a donation jar is in place and all of the proceeds collected from the jar will go directly to the Shelter. Being the coordinator of this event has given me the opportunity to extend my leadership skills and become confident in my ability to succeed on my own. Taking the initiative to contact the Shelter and formulate the plans for the event has paid off with success, which has in turn given me a new sense of efficacy. Before taking charge of this project, I had not known that I would have the confidence or capability to head my own project. Having learned this about myself, I feel much more able and willing to test my limits and discover my true potential.</p>