Williston, ND girl, 9, starts business to pay for food donations
Right before Christmas, a 9-year-old girl gave to the Williston Salvation Army in an amazing way: She started her own business to pay for food donations.
The girl is Raven Hunter, a member of local Girl Scout Troop 188 and proud sister to her younger brothers.
“She is as shrewd as she is inspiring,” said Captain Joshua Stansbury, co-leader of the Williston Salvation Army. “We thank Raven for her huge heart to help others.”
We interviewed Raven to learn more about her neat idea to feed hungry people right here in Williston and Williams County. Here’s what she said:
How did you raise money to purchase food for the Williston Salvation Army food shelf?
I had pretended to start businesses before, but this time I decided to start one for real. Drawing is my favorite thing to do (in addition to dancing), so I drew pictures and sold them. I let people request what they wanted to have drawn. A lot of people wanted Spiderman, football pictures, and Minecraft pictures.
Who purchased your pictures?
My brothers and friends at school bought the pictures. My brothers gave them as Christmas gifts.
What did you charge for your pictures?
Each picture was sold for 50 cents. I made about $9 total. I worked on a lot of pictures before Christmas break, and then went to Walmart to buy the food.
What gave you the idea to raise money to help others?
I just thought of it one day! My Girl Scout Troop did a food drive this summer, and I really enjoyed being a part of that. A friend from school suggested that I have employees, so I now have six or seven. My employees help give me inspiration for my pictures, and they help get me things I need for my projects. My friends Brendon and Brooklyn are my right-hand assistants. I am going to keep doing my drawing business.
How did it make you feel to help others with your drawing business?
REALLY happy. I think it made my mom feel even more happy.
What stood out most to you about your experience?
Helping people. I definitely love doing that.
Is there anything else you would like others to know about what it’s like to give and help others?
If you do it, you will feel really good about yourself. It’s definitely something to be proud of.
Please join Raven by volunteering or making a donation to support The Salvation Army in your local community.