­­­­Ann Arbor, MI (September 16, 2025) — The Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Humane Youth Award, recognizing outstanding young advocates (ages 12-17) whose compassion, service, and leadership are making a meaningful difference in the lives of animals in our community.

Award Recipients

  •  OV Serlin, 15, of Ann Arbor— 2025 Humane Youth Award WinnerAs a Junior Volunteer at HSHV, OV she has spent over 100 hours enriching the lives of the cats, dogs, and small mammals that temporarily call HSHV home. But OV’s animal advocacy extends beyond HSHV; she has spent time volunteering at the Jaguar Rescue Center in Costa Rica, donating to the Creature Conservancy in Washtenaw County, and founding an animal advocacy club within Ann Arbor Public Schools.  OV has also consistently been a top fundraiser for HSHV’s annual Walk and Wag, raising over $3,000 in 2025 alone, to help homeless animals. She also created a website to showcase her wonderful work and advocate for animals.
  • Anna Richards, 17 of Ann Arbor — First Runner-Up
    Also a Junior Volunteer at HSHV, Anna has dedicated over 60 hours of time to helping the adoptable cats, dogs and small mammals at HSHV.  While a student in Ann Arbor Public Schools, Anna has also volunteered at The Bird Center of Michigan and interned at The Creature Conservancy.  Possibly Anna’s biggest contribution to animal welfare, however, is the work she’s done in educating others.  Through her own website and YouTube channel, Anna has published multiple guides on the proper care of reptiles, as well as an informational video explaining “The Problem with Class Pets.”
  • Kate Kim, 17, of Dexter — Second Runner-Up
    Kate, who attends Dexter Public Schools, has contributed to HSHV as both a Junior Volunteer and by selling homemade crafts on Petsy to benefit the shelter.  Most recently, Kate combined her love of music and animals to create a podcast highlighting HSHV’s adoptable animals while introducing listeners to underappreciated songs.

“We are so proud of these young individuals whose compassion for animals inspires all of us,” said Karen Patterson, HSHV’s Vice President of Volunteers and Humane Education. “Their dedication exemplifies the values we hold dear at HSHV, and we are excited to recognize them for their incredible work which bodes well for the world’s future.”

The winner will be presented with an award and formal recognition at HSHV’s annual Compassionate Feast gala on Friday, October 24 at St. John’s Resort in Plymouth.