July’s Awesome Ottawa award goes to Liz Wheeler to support the Secondhand Stories chicken sanctuary’s second annual open house.

“As one of the only sanctuaries in Canada devoted exclusively to chickens,” explains Liz, “we offer care and advocacy for a species often overlooked in animal welfare conversations.”

“Last year,” she continues, “our open house welcomed more than 250 guests, and this year we’re expanding with new youth-focused, culturally inclusive programming. Kids and teens will enjoy hands-on activities like a chicken origami workshop, an Indigenous-led dreamcatcher workshop, and children’s story time with the chickens.”

“We're aiming to inspire empathy and introduce humane education through craft, storytelling, and direct interaction with rescued chickens,” she says.

The open house takes place Saturday, August 30, near Perth, with tickets still available.

Liz is a long-time animal advocate, mental health activist, and self-described passionate believer that kindness and compassion begin when children connect with animals.