Whiz Kid Sophie Yauck Heads to the Doghouse

Birmingham Patch regularly features students doing amazing things. This week's Whiz Kid is an animal lover who hopes to raise $5,000 for education programs offered by the Michigan Humane Society.

Sophie Yauck

Age: 15

School: Groves High School

Hometown: Birmingham

Achievement: Yauck will join local celebrities and some community leaders by staying in the doghouse during the Michigan Humane Society's 24th annual Bow Wow Brunch this Sunday at the Dearborn Inn. She's committed to raising $5,000 specifically for MHS’ Humane Education program, which teaches people how to properly care for and understand animals in order to keep them safe. The participant who raises the most funds will be named the “Top Dog.”

“Being a part of this event with the Michigan Humane Society is such a great way to get involved with the community," said Yauck, who has two dogs at home. "I am a huge animal lover, and when I had the opportunity to help animals by raising money, I said yes in a heartbeat.”

What drives you to be successful?:

“It is important for young adults to be more active in organizations they believe in because it helps the community tremendously,” she added. “You get a good and positive vibe from helping others. So in all reality, not only do you help others, but you help yourself, too. You also gain so many good memories from your experiences.”

What's Next?: Yauch said she plans to stay active in animal-related causes and attend Michigan State University.

How to Help: Tickets to the Bow Wow Brunch begin at $200 and seating is limited. Call (248) 283-5634 for reservations or purchase tickets online at www.michiganhumane.org.

Do you know our next Whiz Kid?

Birmingham Patch welcomes suggestions for students, youth groups and even sports teams who wow us with their accomplishments. We want to hear about amazing children and teens and select one each week as Whiz Kid. Submit your nomination in our comment box below or email the information to editor Art.Aisner@patch.com. Please include all these details:

• Nominator's name
• Whiz Kid's name and age
• Whiz Kid's school
• Whiz Kid's accomplishment
• What makes him or her successful