So often, we hear that kids are the future. But 13-year-old Camden Anderson of White House reminds us that kids can also change the present … with creativity, compassion, and the courage to act on their passions.

Earlier this spring, Camden raised more than $750 for Gigi’s Rescue, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to rehabilitating and rehoming animals in need. His grassroots fundraiser started as a school assignment but quickly became a heartfelt mission rooted in kindness, community, and a deep love for animals.

“We actually adopted our dog, Bandit, from Gigi’s Rescue a couple of years ago,” says Camden’s mom, Elisabeth Anderson. “It was such a great experience that when Camden was assigned a ‘passion project’ through his school’s gifted program, he knew right away he wanted to give back.”

Camden, a seventh grader at Innovation Academy, is part of the RISE program, a group for gifted students who are encouraged to explore real-world applications of their interests. For Camden, that interest was clear: animals. His idea? Open a garage concession stand during spring break to raise money for a rescue organization that had already changed his family's life.

“I worked the concession stand at my school’s football games before, and I liked it,” Camden explained. “So I thought, what if I ran one myself, but out of my garage?”

Camden organized the entire fundraiser himself, from buying the supplies to designing flyers and posting them in his neighborhood. He stocked his stand with hot dogs, chips, drinks, and even offered handmade Pokémon card mystery packs that he bundled himself. For three days during spring break, Camden set up shop from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., serving neighbors and friends with a smile, all while spreading awareness about animal rescue.

It wasn’t just about food or fundraising for Camden; it was also about impact. He may not wear a cape, but he’s a real-life hero to at least one very lucky puppy.

After the fundraiser ended, Camden personally delivered a check to Gigi herself at one of the rescue’s community events. At that point, he was informed that the money he raised would go directly toward life-saving hip surgery for a Cane Corso breed puppy suffering from dysplasia.

Thanks to Camden’s fundraiser, that puppy has now recovered and is ready for adoption. A life changed. A second chance given.

“It makes me really happy to know I helped a dog get the care it needed,” Camden says.

This isn’t Camden’s first time giving back. As a young child living in Massachusetts, he once collected blankets and supplies for a local shelter, delivering them with his family. His mom says that spirit of giving has always been part of who he is.

“He’s always had a big heart,” Elisabeth says. “He’s kind, thoughtful, and incredibly bright. This project pushed him out of his comfort zone, but it also gave him the confidence to know that he can make a difference.”

When asked about the future, Camden lights up. His dream is to become a zoologist, studying animals, their behavior, and their habitats. If his recent actions are any indication, he’s well on his way to achieving that dream.

Gigi’s Rescue, the organization Camden chose to support, is known across the region for its tireless work in saving and rehoming animals, many of whom face serious health or behavioral challenges. Based in Middle Tennessee, Gigi’s relies on community support and donations to continue its mission.

Camden’s story reminds us all that big hearts, and big impact, can come from the most unexpected places. It might be a garage, or a hot dog stand, or even a 13-year-old boy who simply wanted to help.

From all of us at Stay Positive News: Thank you, Camden. You didn’t just raise money … you raised hope.

To learn more about Gigi’s Rescue or to support their mission, visit https://gigisrescue.com.