In a heartwarming tale that underscores the spirit of entrepreneurship and compassion, a six-year-old boy from Warwick, Rhode Island, has combined his love for animals with an innovative business venture. Young Luca Aprin has established himself as a true “entre-paw-neur,” turning the not-so-glamorous task of dog waste removal into a successful endeavor that allowed him to adopt his very own kitten, Pebble.
Using his profits from the aptly named “Poopa Scoopa Luca,” Luca has proven that age is no barrier when it comes to making a difference. “People hate picking up dog poop,” he candidly told WJAR, showcasing his remarkable attitude toward a job that many would shy away from. “I don’t mind that. I don’t mind it at all.”
For just $15—$20 for households with multiple dogs—this industrious first-grader is transforming yards from mess to immaculate, one scoop at a time. “It’s fun. I love cleaning. It’s like one of my favorite things,” Luca added, emphasizing a work ethic that would make many adults envious.
His entrepreneurial journey began at the local animal shelter, where his mother, Robyn Bouchard, works. Inspired by the countless animals they’ve fostered—98 to be exact—Luca developed a strong sense of responsibility and compassion for rescue pets. “He is the first person to walk into the building. He’ll immediately start folding laundry. He’ll sweep and mop the floors. He tells everybody, ‘I love my job, I love coming to work every day,’” Bouchard shared.
Through his time at the shelter, Luca met Pebble and felt an immediate connection. However, with no income from his volunteer work, he faced a challenge: how to raise the necessary funds to adopt her. “He asked me, ‘What can I do to raise money and how can I raise money to adopt this kitten?’ Because he just felt like he couldn’t live without her,” his mother recounted.
With a determination that belies his young age, Luca quickly devised a plan to fund his goal. Thus, “Poopa Scoopa Luca” was born, and within weeks, he had saved enough money to bring Pebble home, marking a significant milestone in his young life. This entrepreneurial spirit is not just about financial gain; it reflects a deeper understanding of the rescue crisis affecting countless animals in his community and beyond.
Bouchard expressed her pride in her son, stating, “I have the coolest kid in the entire world. To be so aware of the rescue crisis in the state and overall in the country, I think that’s pretty unique.” Her admiration shines through as she acknowledges the values that Luca embodies at such a young age.
Not one to rest on his laurels, Luca is already exploring additional ways to earn money, driven by a desire to help even more animals in need. His story is a reminder of the power of compassion, hard work, and innovation, especially when fueled by a genuine love for our four-legged friends. In a world where many kids are preoccupied with screens and instant gratification, Luca stands out as a beacon of hope and determination, showing us that even the smallest among us can make a big difference.
