I have an uplifting story idea about a young girl from a suburb of Phoenix, Ariz., that seems appropriate during an economic downturn when people really need to hear some good news to press on.

Alexandra Cockett is a 12-year-old girl scout who is wise beyond her years and always looking for ways to make a difference.

If I had to summarize her personality – she is not afraid to wish it, dream it and just do it.

Alex is a girl scout who is pursuing a Silver Award for community service.

She’ll tell you that she will be a veterinarian one day so she wanted to volunteer in some capacity that involved animals.

She asked to join me on biweekly pet therapy visits to a rehab center with my golden retriever, Remington, and has been doing so for months with a huge smile on her face.

What happened next surprised everyone.

After learning about age restrictions for young people to volunteer in this capacity, she came up with a plan.

And it was no simple plan.

Last May Alex approached me with a well-thought out, typed, multi-page report about a “club” she wanted to create for kids ages 10-13.

Her vision included establishing a club that would eventually expand to have multiple chapters statewide.

The purpose of her club would be three-fold.

Kids would learn about: responsible pet ownership, how to train their pets in preparation for volunteer service as therapy dogs, and ways they can give back to the community while learning about careers and volunteer opportunities with animals.

There is no organization like it, so the community is stepping forward to make her dream come true.

Marketing experts helped her come up with the club’s official name: PACK Club, which stands for Pets And Caring Kids.

A graphic artist created a logo for free.

An attorney provided proper paperwork tied to liability issues.

Alexandra’s mother is working with a charter school to form  the first class of recruits.

And multiple reputable guest speakers in the pet industry have volunteered to present at club meetings for free (with a bartering component like stuffing envelopes, etc.)

The first club meeting takes place in September.

It’s amazing what fearless young people can do!