that raised over 2 tons of food that she helped deliver to various groups, and she even co-chaired her first big event this past summer, a charity golf tournament.”
In September 2011, the charity golf tournament that Ciara helped organize at Troon North Golf Club raised $10,000 in charity donations for the Rescue a Golden charity.
Ciara is setting her sights on two upcoming golf tournaments this year, including one at Troon North on Sept. 15, and the other at Whirlwind Golf Club on Oct. 6. She is hoping these will prove to be her greatest fundraisers yet.
Ciara created her own charity, Pennies for Pups, when she was named the 2009 Arizona Prudential Spirit of Community award winner for her volunteering efforts. She received a trip to Washington DC with the winners from the other states. During her visit she had the privilege of meeting First Lady Laura Bush. After this remarkable trip that put her in contact with many other motivated and like-minded young people, she came home and decided to do even more. She investigated what it would take to create her own charity and file for non-profit status, and by doing so has had the opportunity to raise money and donations for many animal rescue groups across the Valley. She even created her own website, all with support from her mom and dad.
There are many other adults who have helped, mentored, and encouraged Ciara along the way. Her caring spirit runs in the family. Not too far from home lives her grandmother, Rose Marie Petronzio, who attends St. Gabriel Catholic Church in Cave Creek and works on behalf of the St. Vincent de Paul Charity, a group designed to aid in helping the homeless, poor and disenfranchised in various areas around the world.
Ciara has also learned much from Marie Peck of the Fetch Foundation who she considers her mentor. Marie fondly remembers first meeting a 10-year-old Ciara who was not just passionate about dogs, but passionate about everything. “I was impressed with her from the moment I met her. She is willing to do whatever is asked of her, from preparing medical emergency bags to exercising rescue dogs. She has an unbelievable passion and sense of commitment,” says Marie.
Not surprisingly, Ciara has career aspirations of becoming a veterinarian. Ciara has proven that age doesn’t have to determine contribution to the community. She was featured on a Channel 12 segment called “Heroes Central” and received the Christian Service Award. Her mom shares, “Everything she does is with a smile on her face and love in her heart.”
ImagesAZ thanks you for everything you do, Ciara! www.penniesforpups.com Septem b er 2 0 1 2
35