People and Animals Working to Serve
People and Animals Working to Serve (P.A.W.S.) is a volunteer program functions under the umbrella of Active Re-Entry and its 501 (c)3. There are no state or federal funds to support the work and effort of this program. Because of that P.A.W.S. comes to United Way for funding to assist in supporting and recognizing the time and commitment given by both volunteers (the animal and the person).
P.A.W.S. is dedicated to bring comfort, love and hope to those in need through the miracle of the human-animal bond. We are also members of the national Delta Society organization who provide evaluation and testing standards. P.A.W.S. volunteer handler/animal teams are trained to work in a wide range of care-giving facilities including the hospital, assisted living facilities, nursing homes, special needs classrooms, as well as many other settings. These teams bring the healing power of the human-animal bond to help children and adults who have experienced emotional and physical trauma, developmental changes, substance abuse, and even terminal illness.
Before each visit an animal must be bathed and groomed, as well as having their nails clipped and teeth brushed. Volunteer teams commit time and resources to this, provide "doggie" treats, additional equipment to use during visits (additional and multi-colored leashes, toys, brushes, etc.), have their animals undergo additional veterinarian check-ups (including having the animal on heart guard) as well as traveling to the site. They do all of this because they love and believe in the program and the positive differences the animals have on individuals' lives.
To learn more about being a volunteer and upcoming trainings, contact Nancy Bentley at 637-4950.
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