Batman. Superman. Ghost Busters. Who you gonna call? At The Pongo Fund we call Ben. But because he’s only 7 we can’t call too late. But when we do call he always answers.

He’s interrupted ski trips and school work and nap time and play dates to help us. He is absolutely one of our most consistent donors. But he gives more than money. He gives hope. And love. And kibble.

We thank him every chance we can. And he takes those thanks in stride. I think he knows he’s doing something exceptional. But he just kind of shrugs it off and gets ready for the next time. Because he’s been doing this work of giving for almost half his life now. And he knows there will always be a next time.

Before Ben was 7 he was 6. And before that he was 5. And that’s when this young philanthropist first began his charitable giving. And since that day when he first appeared at The Pongo Fund and presented us with a hefty check he’s become a cornerstone of our work.

Just like our good friend Howard, Ben is one of our most dedicated donors. But he does it with heart that belies his years. He gives his money and he gives his time to help make life better for other people. Young Ben is an old soul.

We saw him just about a week ago when he arrived bearing great kibble that he said was donated by his own dog. Because even his dog knows that there are other dogs going hungry. And because of the bitter cold weather Ben also arrived with several hundred dollars to be used to buy coats and gloves for the people living outside. Seven years old. That’s what he is. Seven!

The tide of The Pongo Fund rises on the shoulders of this young man. He carries us high and in his heart. Leading with a smile that spreads joy everywhere he goes.

Ben is a true example of Mother Teresa’s words: “It is not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving.” Because boy oh boy, Ben puts his love into everything he does.

And we are so deeply lucky to count him as a friend.

Ben!

And this is why we Pongo.

Sit. Stay. Eat. Live. Ben rocks! thepongofund.org