Erin Gentry, a first-year art teacher at Lufkin High School, founded the school’s new Animal Rights Club after a student sent her a message asking her to sponsor it.

The club is for students interested in the well-being of animals and those who want to make a difference in their community, Gentry said. Anyone who owns a pet, enjoys being around animals, or is looking for community service hours is welcome to join the club.

The club has volunteered at the Winnie Berry Humane Society in Lufkin, and plans to consider volunteering at the Kurth Animal Shelter, the Ellen Trout Zoo or other places suggested by club members.

Anyone who wants to join the Animal Rights Club is encouraged to talk to Gentry in Room N-321.

The club is also collecting newspaper donations to take to the Winnie Berry Humane Society, and has set up a recycle bin outside Room N-321. The club will collect newspapers throughout the spring semester. Gentry said any classes that have newspapers to donate can let her know, and she’ll send a club student to pick them up.