Pets Alive award to honor Kameron Jacobsen

MIDDLETOWN — Pets Alive, the Middletown-based, no-kill animal rescue organization, has established the Kameron Jacobsen Youth Award, recognizing children who show extraordinary selflessness in helping animals, and kindness above malice toward others — in particular young people. Officials said the award is a tribute to Jacobsen, who lived in Monroe and died unexpectedly this past January. “Kameron was a wonderful and sweet 14-year-old boy,” said Kerry Clair, Pets Alive executive director. “His spirit was gentle, kind and generous. We hope that by recognizing the youth in the community that exemplify similar special qualities, other children will learn from tragedy of Kameron’s death, to show kindness above malice”. Officials said Jacobsen was a loyal volunteer and close friend of Pets Alive. “Kameron, always laughing and smiling, regularly worked hard alongside his mother Wanda at many of the events helping the animals,” said the statement. “The Jacobsen family often opened their home and their hearts providing foster care for many of the most troubled dogs at the sanctuary. Kameron was absolutely invaluable in helping the dogs learn to trust and love again.” The annual award will be presented at the Pets Alive Fur Ball Gala event on June 17.