Students use art to support local animal shelter

JOPLIN, Mo. — Home school students see a need in the community, and decide to do something about it.

Members of "The Art Club by Drake May" heard about the Carthage Humane Society's need for donations, and used their own creativity to make a difference.

"My mom bought donation boxes, and we all decorated them," said Drake May, Art Club by Drake May.

Drake May says it was more than just an art club project.

"To help out all the animals, and also for them to, like, buy food, and so that way they can get their business out there a little more," said May.

The idea was simple - the kids would decorate the boxes, place them in a public place, and give the money they collected to the Carthage Humane Society.

"It's wonderful. We appreciate it so much, and we love getting young people involved and having them have a heart for the animals," said Renay Minshew, Carthage Humane Society Board of Directors President.

The donation boxes were in place for about a week, and between what was turned in Wednesday afternoon and a few other donation boxes still out, the kids donated just under 100 dollars.

Not the biggest total - but Minshew says big changes can have small beginnings.

"If everyone would think about the animals, the world would be a better place," said Minshew.

About 20 boxes were placed throughout the community - and the kids had so much fun doing it the first time - many of those boxes are going back to build on what they've already done.

"Because that means it could get us even more money to help get stuff for the Humane Society," said May.