A Young Animal Enthusiast Making a Big Impact
In Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, the Raven Ridge Wildlife Center in Washington Borough is home to more than just animals. It’s also where a 10-year-old girl named Olivia Polaski has made a remarkable difference. With over 50 baby skunks, seven bald eagles, and a hundred other animals under their care, the center has become a place of learning and compassion—and Olivia has played a key role in supporting its mission.
Olivia’s journey with wildlife began with birds. “Every morning, I’d sit outside and listen to the birds while I eat breakfast, and then I started to realize how complicated and cool birds are,” she said. This fascination led her to research more about them and eventually discover the programs at Raven Ridge. The connection was immediate, and it sparked a passion that continues to grow.
What set Olivia apart from other children was her unique approach to giving back. At her birthday party, she invited the staff from Raven Ridge and asked if she could donate all of her gifts. Her mother, Bethany Polaski, recalls being surprised by the request. “That’s not a normal thing for a child to ask for,” she said. But Olivia was determined. She raised over $100 through this gesture, and the excitement of helping the center didn’t stop there.
Inspired by her initial success, Olivia decided to take things further. She set up a lemonade stand with her friends, selling homemade crafts. Though the weather wasn’t always on their side, they remained persistent. “I was very successful raising money for Raven Ridge,” Olivia said. Her efforts were not just about fundraising—they were about making a real impact on the lives of animals in need.
Beyond her fundraising, Olivia has also become an eager student of wildlife. She shares what she’s learned with others, explaining details like how owls flap their wings silently while hawks do not. Her knowledge is impressive for someone so young, and it shows her deep interest in the natural world.
Tracie Young, a wildlife rehabilitator and director at Raven Ridge, sees a lot of herself in Olivia. “She kind of reminds me a lot of myself,” Young said. This connection highlights the importance of young people who are passionate about conservation and animal welfare.
For Olivia, the future is clear. “I want to be an animal rehabilitator, and I want to help save more animals,” she said. Her determination and dedication are already making a difference, and it’s only the beginning of what she might achieve.
Through her actions, Olivia has shown that even the youngest among us can have a powerful impact. Whether it’s through fundraising, education, or simply caring for animals, she is proving that age doesn’t limit one’s ability to make a change. As she continues on her path, the wildlife center and the community around her will undoubtedly benefit from her growing commitment.
