‘Betty White Challenge’ inspires Redwood students to advocate for animals

By Devon McWilliams

On December 31, actress Betty White passed away at the age of 99. After her death, the #BettyWhiteChallenge hashtag went viral after being created to honor the actress and continue her work caring for animals. White publicly spoke about her love for animals throughout her career and was a known advocate for animal welfare.

The hashtag challenged people to donate to a local or national shelter on what would have been her 100th birthday, January 17, 2022.

Students of Redwood have heard about the challenge through multiple social medias including TikTok, Instagram, and even Twitter.

Mila Bravo, ’24 says, “I was surprised that she was even interested in donating to such helpful organizations, personally I didn’t remember her until people mentioned that she was one of the ‘Golden Girls’ which is iconic.”

White herself was a volunteer and board member of American Humane, the first national humane organization in the U.S. and the largest certifier of animal welfare in the world.

AnnaMarie Campos, ’23 says, “I am such an animal lover and when I found out on TikTok that people were adopting local animals, it melted my heart.”

Isaiah Ramirez, ’24 says, “I haven’t heard much about the challenge on TikTok, but either way I think it’s cool to know that people get involved to help lost animals.”

Monday, January 17 would have been White’s 100th birthday. People are now using her birthday as a way to give back by donating $5 to local animal shelters and rescues.

Among those participating in the challenge is the Animal Care Centers of NYC. The organization already beat its fundraising goal on Facebook.

The “Betty White Challenge” was a great way for individuals to honor Betty White’s legacy and learn more about her advocacy for animals.

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