Greya Baziuk had a simple request for their 11th birthday. They wanted to pet dogs and they wanted to donate money to help pets.
“So, four days before their birthday, I had this epiphany that I would put on a dog party,” said Greya’s mom, Voyla, who was touched by her child’s unselfish wish. “But I don’t know very many dogs.” In order to drum up the canine attendees, Voyla shared her child’s request on the Bainbridge Islander’s Facebook group, inviting dog owners to bring their pets to the celebration, sharing that Greya has autism and that dogs and other animals are their special interest.
The response was exceptional, with more than 150 “likes,” “loves” and “cares,” and more than 100 comments supporting the idea. The party went off without a hitch on October 19 at Fay Bainbridge Park, where islanders showed up with their pooches, who enjoyed cookies from BI Barkery and pupcakes made by one of Voyla’s friends. “All the dogs were really well behaved,” she said. “We had two Great Danes. My child was thrilled.”
Voyla said that Greya made a bedazzled donation box that was set out at the party to collect contributions for the Kitsap Humane Society. The next morning, it was delivered in person, bestowing $436 to the nonprofit, which had a birthday card waiting.
