Ways for Kids to Get Involved

While children under the age of 13 aren’t able to volunteer at the shelter, here some other ways they can get involved!

Humane Education

Through our Humane Education Program, NHA teaches children about dogs and cats, how to kindly interact with them, and how they can support shelters like NHA to make sure our furry friends find the homes they deserve!

Our curriculum is intended for children ages 5–8 years old, and each program lasts approximately 45 minutes but varies depending upon age groups and topics. All programs include corresponding worksheets, activities and/or takeaways (as supplies and time allow).

If you would like to learn more or sign up to have a humane educator come to your classroom, please email volunteer@nashvillehumane.org.

 

Fun Ideas for the Pups to Help the Homeless Animals at NHA

  • Organize a collection drive for pet food and supplies! Get creative by hosting a movie night or ice cream party for your friends, with a shelter wish list item as admission!
  • Start a fundraiser, like “Pennies for Puppies” or “Coins for Kitties,” at your school. Make it a competition among classes, grades, or clubs!
  • Create posters or flyers to educate people about pets, and post them around your school and community.
  • Choose to write a report for your class about spaying and neutering, or adopting a shelter pet. You will learn more, and so will your peers!
  • Host a dog wash in your neighborhood, and ask that pet owners pay in either cash or items from the shelter’s wish list.
  • And most importantly, if you have cats or dogs at home, lead by example. Make sure your family’s pets are spayed or neutered, and help care for them with daily feeding, watering, walking, grooming, and playtime. Make sure they’re up to date on vaccinations and have ID tags, in case they get loose. If you do choose to volunteer at Nashville Humane Association once you’re 13 or older, you’ll already have great experience with animals to put on your application!