Empowering Kids … Changing Lives
We believe all children, and especially the disadvantaged youth in our programs, can become high achievers in their own unique way and overcome challenges through care and support. Our goal is to empower kids by teaching them important life skills while receiving the therapeutic value of caring for and training a dog.
The children in our programs are selected in collaboration by teachers, counselors and therapists.
While in our program the students enjoy the companionship of the dog while gaining confidence and finding acceptance. Improving life skills truly makes a difference on child’s life. It gives youth a reason to dream bigger and to find the confidence to be more than their disability or environment.
The dogs make me happy. Even when I come in not a very good mood, the dogs make me feel better. This program has changed my life. It has helped with my patience, I have to be patient to train a dog. – Nick, Dorothy Thomas Program Participant
One Dog At A Time
Our dogs come to us from animal rescue organizations. They are evaluated before entering into the program for many things including temperament, motivation and drive.
The dogs used in our programs have been evaluated and trained, mainly by the teens, to serve in an emotional support role. Those in the reading program have learned to lie still for 30 minutes while a child reads to them in an non-judgmental role.
The dogs in the teen programs must have the temperament to work with a wide variety of teen “trainers”. We train every dog in our program to pass the AKC Canine Good Citizen Certification.
During the training cycle of one dog they can provide tail wags, gentle listening skills and unconditional love to more than 350 people, brightening their day.
Our Funding
On January 14, 2016, Kids and Canines was granted a 501c3 non-profit status by the Internal Revenue Services (IRS). We rely on the support of individuals and businesses who are committed to giving a child an opportunity for a better life. All donations made to Kids and Canines are tax deductible under IRS Section 170. Kids and Canines is registered with the State of Florida, Department of Solicitations, CH53474.
Kids and Canines FY2019-20 annual budget is $219,865. You can see the income and expenses below:
