The Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV), based in Ann Arbor, recognizes the remarkable contributions of young people through its 2025 Humane Youth Award. This annual honor celebrates individuals ages 12 to 17 whose compassion and leadership uplift the lives of animals and inspire the broader community.

This year’s award winner, OV Serlin, 15, has contributed over 100 volunteer hours at HSHV, working with cats, dogs and small mammals. Her advocacy reaches far beyond local efforts. OV has volunteered at the Jaguar Rescue Center, in Costa Rica, donated to the Creature Conservancy and founded an animal advocacy club within Ann Arbor Public Schools. She also built a website to promote animal welfare and raised more than $3,000 for HSHV’s Walk and Wag event in 2025.

First runner-up Anna Richards, 17, has logged more than 60 hours as a Junior Volunteer and also supports The Bird Center of Michigan and The Creature Conservancy. She creates digital content to educate others, including care guides for reptiles and videos addressing animal issues such as the ethics of classroom pets.

Kate Kim, 17, of Dexter, earns second runner-up for combining creative outreach with advocacy. She supports HSHV through handmade crafts and recently launched a podcast pairing adoptable animals with curated music tracks.

These youth will be recognized at HSHV’s annual Compassionate Feast gala, to be held at St. John’s Resort, in Plymouth on October 24.