The Humane Youth Award recognizes inspiring youth between the ages of 12 and 17 who are making a positive impact on the lives of animals in their community.
The award is a recognized honor for a young person who has both personally, and through the inspired efforts of others, raised awareness for and helped create a more peaceful life for people, animals and the environment.
Meet the 2026 winners
Our 2026 Humane Youth Award recipient, Evie Rosenberg, has been a part of the HSHV family for many years. As a Junior Volunteer she has been dedicated to making a meaningful difference for animals through more than 300 volunteer hours and over three years of service both at our main shelter and Tiny Lions. Trained in cat, dog, and small mammal care, she volunteers throughout the shelter and at events like Walk & Wag, Muttster Mash, Pets & Pajamas, Camp Paws, and Camp Purrs. As a Junior Leader, she has helped inspire young campers while sharing her passion for animals. She has also raised thousands of dollars through Walk & Wag, continually seeks opportunities to expand her knowledge, and encourages others to get involved. Her compassion, dedication, and commitment to improving the lives of animals make her a truly deserving recipient of this year’s Humane Youth Award.
Our First Runner-Up for the Humane Youth Award, Karley, has a huge heart for animals and a genuine desire to make a difference in their lives. As an HSHV Junior Volunteer, she provides affection and companionship to shelter animals while they wait for their forever homes. Whether she is comforting a nervous dog, spending time with a cat, or simply helping an animal feel safe and cared for, Karley approaches her volunteer work with compassion, dedication, and enthusiasm. She is without a doubt a great role model to others and her love for animals is truly inspiring. We are proud to celebrate the kindness, compassion, and difference she brings to animals and our community.
Award Information
Guidelines
- Please submit your entry electronically by July 31st at 4pm. We’re sorry – late submissions are not able to be considered.
- This award is open to all youth ages 12-17 that reside in Washtenaw County, Plymouth or the City of Northville. Those on HSHV’s Junior Volunteer team who live outside of these areas are also welcome to apply.
- We ask that applicants are willing to have their photo, work and/or name used in recognition/marketing activities (such as press releases, on the website, etc.) and the parent/guardian must agree to a marketing release form, which is provided in the application.
- Work must be original.
- Please limit entries to one per nominee.
The Selection Process
Nominations will be accepted now through July 31st, 2026 at 4pm. All nominations must be submitted electronically using our nomination form. All nominees will receive communication regarding their nomination status and winners will be notified by August 5th via email. We’re sorry – we are not able to consider incomplete submissions.
All youth are encouraged to apply and the following criteria will be a guide for us when considering submissions.
- Whether the nominee’s work is directly helping animals within Washtenaw County, Plymouth or the City of Northville
- Number of animals helped
- Sustainability of the project
- Length (time wise) that the project has been occurring
- Uniqueness
One Humane Youth Award winner as well as a first and second runner-up will be selected. Awards are as follows:
Winner
- Complimentary attendance for the winner and a guest and formal recognition at HSHV’s annual Compassionate Feast gala on October 30th.
- Humane Youth Award trophy
- Inclusion in marketing opportunities and press releases
First Runner-Up
- Humane Youth Award plaque
- Inclusion in marketing opportunities and press releases
Questions? Please email humaneed@hshv.org
This form will close August 7th, 2026 at 4 p.m., and winners will be notified by Wednesday, August 12th via email. Thank you for your interest in HSHV's Humane Youth Award!