ASPCA Honors 10-year Girl from Tampa, Florida with Ties to Atlantic

(Tampa, Florida) A ten-year-old girl with ties to Atlantic, Iowa, is doing amazing things in Tampa, Florida. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals recently honored 10-year-old Delanie Dennis with the National Kid of the Year Award for her outstanding contribution to animal welfare.

Delanie Dennis is the daughter of Andy and Julie Dennis of Tampa, Florida. Delanie’s father, Andy Dennis, is formerly of Atlantic, grandparents Debbie Leistad of Atlantic, Bob and Pat Dennis of rural Atlantic, and Aunt Cherie Petty, and husband Sid of Atlantic.

At the age of seven, Delanie founded Delanie’s Lemonade Stand in her parents’ restaurant. Inspired by a book and a TV commercial, Delanie started fundraising for the American Society for the Cruelty to Animals organization. Since its start-up in 2019, Delanie Dennis has raised $50,000 for these rescues.

Delanie works at her parent’s restaurant one to two days per week. She says the fundraiser is also on the menu. Each month Delanie chooses a different animal rescue organization to receive 100 percent of the sales of designated items at the stand and restaurant. Additionally, Delanie went a step further last year and hosted her first adoption fair, featuring 29 animals resulting in more than 30 animal adoptions. Additionally, the young philanthropist frequently volunteers at rescue organizations to care for various animals, including dogs, cats, horses, and exotic animals. So, what has Delanie learned from” this experience?

Delanie’s parents, Andy and Julie, admit it’s surreal to think Delanie received this high honor.

They are amazed how their young daughter holds true to her mission to improve animal welfare and make a difference in the lives of others.

Each year The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals honors animal and human heroes who have gone above and beyond to make significant strides to improve animal welfare and make a difference in the lives of others. Congratulations to Delanie Dennis.