...Kailey’s mom Holly explained, “Kailey has always loved chimpanzees and when she heard about the dangers they are facing, she was deeply moved. She was so concerned that she was unable to sleep that night until I assured her that we would find a way to help them.”

Kailey and Holly discussed some options and decided they would hold a garage sale to raise money for the Jane Goodall Institute. They also decided to invite friends and family to participate. Kailey then sent a letter to her friends:

"My name is Kailey and I'm 6 years old. I saw a little movie at the Children's Museum and learned that people are cutting down the chimpanzees' trees. If their trees are cut down they will not have a place to live. That makes me sad. I have saved some money to help the chimpanzees, but I would like to give them some more. So, I'm having a garage sale on Saturday, May 10, 2008 to raise some money. If you would like to help the chimpanzees too you could give me some things you don't need any more to sell at my garage sale or you could come to my sale and buy things you need. This is really important. Thanks for helping."

After a few stressful days preparing, Kailey and Holly decided to make the initiative one giant party. They bought cookies, coffee and lemonade to sell. Kailey blew up balloons. They made a big poster with pictures of chimpanzees, gorillas and orangutans and even a little educational game with facts about chimpanzees. On the day of the event everyone had a great time: people played, laughed, ate cookies and sold or bought a lot of stuff!

The garage sale was successful in more ways than one. Not only did Kailey raise $475.00 and get over 20 families to donate, she inspired the neighborhood to get involved, she increased awareness of JGI and the plight of chimps, and she ensured everyone had fun in the process.  Another remarkable event that occurred was when a little girl who was also 6 years old gave $20.11 of her own money. The ripples were in motion.

After hearing about Kailey’s event, Roots & Shoots Canada sent her a note of encouragement and thanks.  Holly reported back to us that after having read the message Kailey looked at her mother and proudly said, "I feel important”.