The Naperville Area Humane Society: So Much More Than Just Adoptions!

Don't let the small size fool you - the Naperville Area Humane Society's reach goes far beyond the walls of their facility at 1620 West Diehl Road in Naperville!

Of course, their primary focus hasn't changed:  to give the dogs and cats that pass through their doors A better home. A better life.  A better future. through adoption and adoption into just the right home for each animal. 

Development Director Monica Bucek gave me a tour of their Naperville facility this week and shared some of the incredible outreach programs they've created, with opportunities for animal lovers of all ages to GET INVOLVED!

-Pets & Kids After-School Program (ages 8-12):  Session Topics include Animal Behavior & Communication, The Handling of Cats & Dogs, Veterinary Care, and more!  This program is $55 per child and meets on Mondays from 4-4:45 p.m. There's currently still availability in February-May sessions!

-Summer Camp (ages 6-12):  Plan to register EARLY for these popular Summer Camps, which open for registration in March and always sell out!  Sign-up for their monthly e-newsletter to stay up-to-date on registration and offerings.  The Animals & Us Day Camps teach basic pet care, humane education, animal welfare careers, and more using games, activities, and crafts.  The 5-day camp is $125 per child, which includes a daily snack, t-shirt, and crafts. 

-Paws for Tales Reading Program:  Certified dog & volunteer (owner) teams help kids ages 5 & up who struggle with reading skills by reading aloud to a furry friend!  NAHS is currently looking for volunteer(owner)-dog teams to participate in this amazing program - dog temperment is critical!  See the Paws for Tales link for more information on how to apply.

-Safe Pets Program:  When victims of domestic violence enter a shelter for themselves or their family, their animals can also be granted a temporary safe haven from abuse through the Naperville Area Humane Society's Safe Pets Program.  Currently, the shelter is able to support these animals for about 2 weeks, offering assistance in a situation where every day counts!

-FREE In-School Presentations:  Attention schools, teachers, & parents!  Did you know that the NAHS will come to YOUR school, free of charge?!  They offer a wide variety of educational presentations for grades Kindergarten through high school, which can also be tailored to your needs, such as:

     -Barks & Bites (Grades K-6):  teaches children how to interact safely with animals and avoid dangerous situations.  Children learn how to be safe around their own pets, other people's pets, and stray dogs. 

     -Awesome Animal Careers (Grades 4-6):  children will learn about different careers that involve animals, including veterinarian, groomer, dog trainer, and animal shelter careers. (perfect for Career Day/Week!)

Coming soon from travel beCAUSE - learn how individuals, families, and groups can get involved to support this busy organization!