The passing of Betty White on December 31 has triggered an outpouring of fond memories from her fans worldwide, including a heartwarming story from the Audubon Nature Institute.

The nonprofit organization, based in New Orleans, took to Twitter to mourn the loss of the Golden Girl star, describing her as "a conservationist, animal advocate, and friend." The Audubon Nature Institute, responsible for the city's zoo and aquarium, also shared how the iconic actress had come to the aid of Louisiana's animals during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

In their tweet, the institute revealed, "When the penguins & sea otters were evacuated to @MontereyAq for Hurricane Katrina, Betty White paid for the plane to relocate them.

She did not ask for fanfare; she just wanted to help."

This tweet references the efforts made to safeguard the animals of the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas after the devastating Hurricane Katrina hit Louisiana in 2005.

"After Hurricane Katrina, a private plane was chartered to transfer Audubon Aquarium's sea otters and penguins to Monterey Bay Aquarium. Audubon only discovered afterwards that Betty White had contributed to funding the trip. Betty, a passionate animal advocate and conservationist, did not seek any recognition for her involvement; she simply wanted to assist in any way she could.

We are deeply saddened by the loss of a true friend," stated a spokesperson for the Audubon Nature Institute in a statement to PEOPLE.

This act of kindness from White is just one of the numerous examples of her unwavering support for animals and their well-being throughout her life. In 2017, she received the James Smithson Bicentennial Medal for her "dedication to wildlife and efforts to create a sustainable planet," particularly through her charitable work with zoos and animal rescue organizations.

Since her passing, fans have initiated an online movement encouraging everyone to donate $5 to an animal welfare charity on January 17, which would have marked White's 100th birthday.

This initiative aims to honor the actress and her profound love for animals and their welfare.

Lance Bass, among others, has shown support for the fan-created "#BettyWhiteChallenge," sharing a post about the campaign on Instagram. "Soooooo in for this! #BettyWhiteChallenge," wrote Bass, accompanied by a black and white photo of White affectionately holding a dog.

In memory of the extraordinary actress, animal lover, and conservationist, people around the world are coming together to celebrate her legacy and continue her mission of caring for animals and the planet.