Teenager Starts Non-Profit to Raise Money for Animal Victims of Gulf Oil Spill

Posted by: Beth Buczynski
Care2

When faced with the almost insurmountable tasks of cleaning up the mess BP created in the Gulf, most people feel helpless. Teenagers and kids outraged by the injustices much of the Gulf’s wildlife will have to endure as a result are often surprised that adults are doing so little to help.

After a conversation with his dad about wanting to do something about the oil spill, teenager Matt Pierce decided to take matters into his own hands.

The Florida teen started a non-profit called Teenagers Care to raise funds for animals suffering from this disaster. This one spark of an idea has spread in such a short time that, in less than two weeks, the organization has raised almost $5,000.

“It’s hard to see majestic animals, such as the Brown Pelican, in such a state of distress and not do anything,” Pierce said. “I hope that through my fundraising efforts and by raising awareness with teens and adults that we can save the lives of many animals.”

In Pierce’s opinion, the oil rig should have never been placed into the Gulf if there were not functional fail-safe systems in place. “It’s their responsibility to clean up the crisis that they have created and they should be held accountable for their actions,” he said. “But, in the meantime, we as citizens must help wherever possible to save wildlife and clean up their habitat.”

That’s where Teenagers Care comes in. Through sales of their stylish “Help Clean Up The Oil Spill” t-shirt, Pierce and his national team of volunteers are raising money to support grassroots organizations working to rescue wildlife in Louisiana, Mississsippi, Florida, and Alabama.

Check out the video to learn more:

Teenagers Care is also looking for Teen News Reporters that want to get involved in building awareness and helping the cause. If you or someone you know would be interested, contact Matt HERE

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