Archive for July 3rd, 2012
Hilaroo
Photo credit: Hilary Swank Fan
Two Western celebrities have recently been on charitable missions in Bucharest, Romania, to help save unwanted animals from euthanasia. In April Mickey Rourke launched a $2 million campaign there, using more than a $¼ million of his own money, to set up a massive ‘Wild Dogs of Romania Sanctuary’ for thousands of strays. And last month Hilary Swank was a guest of the charity Vier Pfoten, which brings together rescued animals and children in some of the country’s hundreds of orphanages, to bring them healing and teach them unconditional love and responsibility. In many cases, the relationships formed also help with anger management and restoring the institutionalised kids’ sense of trust.
Now – inspired by her visit – the 37-year-old actress has announced plans to set up her own charity in the USA, doing similar work. Hilaroo will bring needy children and rescued animals together, thus helping both. Hilary, who says she believes “in a ‘no-kill’ policy”, is hoping for “a more caring attitude in general to all animals.” With animal welfare currently drawing huge support in social networking circles, and with the additional emotional appeal of helping orphans and other deprived kids, she could be on to a winner with her latest venture.
