A Vested Interest

Nine-year-old Vicky Galindo loves to read—and loves animals. One day she read a story about a police dog who had been killed while on duty, and a young girl who was inspired to help.

"The story was about an 11-year-old girl who raised money to buy bullet proof vests for police dogs," said Vicky.

Vicky knew how it felt to lose a beloved dog. Her own dog had recently died. She didn't want other people to have to feel that sadness.

Inspired by the story, Vicky made up collection jars and delivered them to businesses around her hometown of El Reno, Oklahoma. Her goal was to raise $1,280 and buy vests for two canine members of the El Reno Police Department.

Down But Not Out

Vicky checked the jars each week, and money slowly began to add up. After many months, she finally had enough for the vests—or so she thought. The company she had originally planned to buy the vests from didn't return her calls. She was forced to find another company—only their vests cost $2,000 each!

However, when the new company learned of Vicky's hard work and dedication, they agreed to sell her a vest for the $1,200 she had raised. The company would donate the rest. They even sent a representative to the ceremony when Vicky presented the vest to the police department.

Understandably proud, her mom told us that this isn't the end for Vicky and animals. "At her next birthday, she plans to ask for donations for the local animal shelter instead of presents!"

El Reno animals are very lucky to have Vicky on their side—a small girl with a very big heart.