CULLMAN, Ala. – Denna Chivers, 11, was recognized by the Cullman County Commission at its Tuesday meeting for her generosity and dedication to the Cullman County Animal Shelter. Chivers, a sixth grader at Cullman Christian School, recently held her third annual yard sale to raise money for the shelter and the animals in its care.
The young animal champion raised an impressive $3,000 at this year’s yard sale. This is the third year Chivers has chosen to raise money and awareness for the needs of the homeless animals of Cullman County. Last year, she donated a covered pavilion to the shelter to provide a shady area with seating for potential adopters, volunteers and the shelter’s dogs. In return, the shelter hung a sign from the pavilion in Chivers’ honor.
Tuesday morning, Chivers was accompanied by her proud parents, James and Beth Ann Chivers.
She was quick to give credit to others, sharing, “I had a lot of help. People donated items for the yard sale and my friends and family helped me. My best friend Gracie Moody, she helped me with everything.”
Commissioner Garry Marchman said of Chivers’ efforts, “It’s a huge testament not only for her but the people around her that supports these efforts. The idea has to come from somewhere. It’s just an example of the great community we live in and how some of the parents in this community take time to raise kids to look at the impact they can have on their community. It’s huge!”
“We told everybody what you had done and how grateful we are for your hard work and your support of the animal shelter. We would like to present you with a certificate of appreciation,” Commission Chairman Kenneth Walker said to Chivers.
Cullman County Animal Control Assistant Director Dwain Floyd presented Chivers with a plaque that reads, “In appreciation and recognition for your generous commitment of time, support and inspiration to the care of the animals of Cullman County.”
Chivers’ dad said he wasn’t sure how this year’s money will be spent but said there are several ideas- from providing some agility equipment for the shelter’s play yard to possibly sponsoring adoptions.
“We just want to do whatever can help them out the best,” he said.
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