It takes a big heart to dedicate your birthday toward something you believe in. Upon turning 14, Aubrey, a Calgary resident whose parents own a second home in Invermere, asked friends and family for donations to help with the cost of a new rescue and adoption centre at ICAN.

“We love Aubrey — she’s been volunteering for three years now. I think it’s absolutely amazing,” said Lana Banham, president and co-founder of ICAN. “She put a wish on Canadahelps.org, and her goal was to raise $1,400 for her 14th birthday.”

After the month-long “Aubrey’s Wish” campaign, Aubrey’s ambitious goal more than tripled, for a total of $4,375.

“It’s good for young kids to know that this is an option for them if they want,” said Ms. Banham. “It’s always great to see kids be so compassionate and giving, regardless of the charity.”