Brielle LaValle, 14 and her sister, Ava, 11, are pictured with jewelry items they sell that benefit area nonprofits.

Hand-crafted jewelry made by two students from the Silver Creek Central Schools have been more than just making people look good. They’ve also helped several area charities.

Brielle LaValle, 14 and her sister, Ava, 11 recently marked two years of jewelry sales by donating 50% of their sales to several local charities.

“They wanted to continue community service after their Girl Scout troops disbanded,” explains their mother, Kristy LaValle. “The cost for the jewelry is rather low. So, donating 50% ensures a decent amount to be donated. They use their profit to buy new supplies.”

Donation amounts totaling $1,073 have been made to the following: Inspire Good WNY, Silver creek VFW auxiliary, Forestville food pantry, Hawk Creek Wildlife Center, YWCA Westfield, Gowanda AGLOW and the Lakeshore Humane Society.

“They started with the Humane Society because they love animals and basically would look for existing fundraiser events from organizations and ask to fundraise during the event,” the mother says. “They look for organizations that are giving back to the community. Those are the ones they focus on helping.”

Brielle says jewelry making started out as a hobby a few years ago that has expanded to include necklaces and pendants as well as rings and key chains. All items are $3 with the most popular being a Buffalo Bills bracelet.

“It was an honor to work with Brielle and Ava and see two incredible young ladies take on every part of this project themselves- an impressive accomplishment at any age,” says Tanya Penksa, Curator, Hawk Creek Wildlife Center, Inc.

“At Hawk Creek, our mission is to inspire people to care for wildlife, and seeing Brielle and Ava not only embody that mission but take charge in such a meaningful way inspires us to keep pushing our work forward,” Penksa says. “Their compassion proves that no matter your age, you can make a lasting difference, and we couldn’t be prouder of them. With young people like Brielle and Ava becoming the leaders of tomorrow, we have no doubt the future of our wildlife is in good hands.”

Look for Brielle and Ava to be at the Lakeshore Humane Society fundraiser in Dunkirk later this fall.