Next Intake:  We are now accepting applications for our program starting on June 01, 2025.  Applicants will be interviewed up until April 30th, 2025 and those accepted into our program will be notified by May 15th, 2025

Pawsitive Futures Youth Outreach Program

At Friendly Paws Society, we're committed to creating a brighter future for at-risk youth through our Pawsitive Futures Youth Outreach program. Our mission is to empower and uplift young individuals by providing direct support and mentorship, with a special focus on those from indigenous backgrounds, 2SLGBTQ+ communities, youth who have interacted with the penal system, youths battling addiction, new immigrants, and those living below the poverty line.

Our Mission

We believe in the power of inclusivity and addressing the diverse needs of at-risk youth. By offering meaningful opportunities in the pet rescue industry, we strive to foster personal growth, community involvement, and a sense of responsibility. Through hands-on experiences and education, we nurture compassion, leadership, and skills, creating a brighter, more inclusive future where both young individuals and their furry companions thrive

Program Steps

Each candidate will be assigned a mentor that will guide them through the program journey from start to finish. 

1. Referral Application 

We receive a referral application from an organization like: RainCity Housing, YouthCO, Directions Youth Services, Watari Counselling & Support Services Society, Pathways BC, The Door Is Open Society, Covenant House and Urban Native Youth Association (UNYA).

2. Interview & Assessment Process

To ensure that candidates are a perfect fit for our Pawsitive Futures program, we conduct a thorough and engaging interview process. This helps us gauge their passion for animals and their potential to contribute positively to the program.

3. Training at Friendly Paws Doggy Daycare

At Friendly Paws Club Doggy Daycare, we ensure our trainees are adept at handling dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments through a comprehensive training program designed to provide top-notch care for our furry friends. By the end of the training, trainees are well-equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to handle dogs in all types of situations.

4. Volunteer at a Local Animal Shelter

After successfully completing the training program with Friendly Paws Club, candidates are assigned to a local animal rescue where they will volunteer for the next 90 days. At the animal rescue, candidates will gain valuable experience with all the skill sets required to work in an animal shelter.

5. Travel Abroad and Volunteer in a Foreign Country

A parent or legal guardian must sign a letter of permission for the candidate to travel with the group. We will provide assistance in obtaining a passport and any necessary travel visas required by the destination country. We travel to Mexico, The Dominican Republic, Brazil, Costa Rica, Chile, and South Korea. Candidates volunteer in a foreign country animal shelter and visit significant landmarks and sites of cultural significance. This cultural tour will not only enrich the candidates' understanding of the country they are visiting but also enhance their overall experience, making it a truly memorable and impactful journey

6. Bring Back an Animal in Need

Our candidates will act as a carrier for the shelter that they volunteered for and bring an animal in dire need back to a local animal shelter, This giving the candidate an overwhelming feeling of self worth and accomplishment. This is an extremely transformative step in the program.

7. Graduate From Pawsitive Futures

Our candidates that graduate will now put what they have learned throughout the program into action. They will work closely with their mentor and our program councillors to start planning training, education and pursuing a pet industry career. Our program is setting these candidates up for success, not only by providing them with practical skills and knowledge but also by offering continuous support and guidance as they embark on their pet industry careers.

8. Apply for Grants and Scholarships

There are several grants and scholarships available for at-risk youths to support their studies. We assist graduates through the application process and provide letters of recommendation and references when required. We also create scholarships and grants with the support and generosity of our corporate clients.

9. Enroll in Courses and Programs Related to the Pet Industry

At Friendly Paws Club Doggy Daycare, we ensure our trainees are adept at handling dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments through a comprehensive training program designed to provide top-notch care for our furry friends

10. Career Search & Job Placement

We work with graduates to create a professional resume and work on interview and presentation skills. Mentors and Program Councillors will help gather references and recommendations. There are several resources available for finding careers and job placements in the pet industry

11. Start a Rewarding Career in the Pet Industry

Not all endings can be happy; however, we will strive to support our candidates throughout this journey encouraging them to complete each step in their own style and time. Our understanding that not all endings can be happy reflects a profound empathy and realism. By supporting candidates throughout their journey and allowing them to progress at their own pace and in their own style, we foster resilience and personal growth. Encouragement and unwavering support can help candidates navigate challenges and setbacks. This approach nurtures the candidates' development, instilling values of perseverance, compassion, and adaptability. Our dedication to providing this support undoubtedly creates a lasting positive impact on both the candidates and the animals they help.

Get Involved

Volunteer with Us

Become a mentor and make a difference in a young person's life. As a volunteer, you will:

• Provide guidance and support to at-risk youth
• Help them develop essential life skills and a sense of responsibility
• Engage in pet rescue activities, including caring for and rehabilitating animals

1. Community Impact

Local and International animal shelters are a key part of our program, offering opportunities for youth to volunteer and receive training in the animal rescue field. Partnering with the Pawsitive Futures Youth Outreach program can offer numerous benefits to animal shelters. Here are a few compelling reasons why shelters might consider becoming a partner:

By participating in the Pawsitive Futures program, shelters can make a significant positive impact on the lives of at-risk youth in the community. By providing mentorship and training, shelters can help young individuals develop essential life skills, leadership qualities, and a sense of responsibility.

2. Increased Volunteer Support

Partnering shelters receive additional support from motivated youth volunteers who are eager to learn and contribute. This can help ease the workload on existing staff and provide more hands-on care for the animals in the shelter.

3. Enhanced Animal Care

With more volunteers and mentors available, shelters can provide enhanced care and attention to the animals. This can lead to better rehabilitation outcomes and a higher chance of successful adoptions.

4. Building Awareness and Support

Being part of a well-recognized program like Pawsitive Futures can help shelters gain visibility and support from the broader community. This can lead to increased donations, volunteer sign-ups, and overall awareness of the shelter’s mission and needs.

5. Educational Opportunities

Shelters can offer educational workshops and training sessions as part of the program. This not only benefits the youth but also showcases the shelter's expertise and commitment to animal welfare.

6. Strengthening Community Ties

Collaborating with the Pawsitive Futures program fosters stronger ties between the shelter and the community. It creates a sense of unity and shared purpose, as everyone works together to support both vulnerable youth and animals in need. By becoming a partnering shelter, you’re not just helping at-risk youth and animals—you’re contributing to a stronger, more compassionate community. If you're interested in learning more about how to become a partner, please reach out to us at pawsitivefutures@friendlypawssociety.org. Your time and dedication can have a lasting impact on both the youth and the animals in our care.

Donate to Support Our Cause

Your donations help us provide:

• Resources and materials for educational workshops and training sessions
• Financial assistance for at-risk youth to participate in our programs (Flights, Accommodation, Meals, Transportation etc)
• Essential supplies and medical care for rescued animals

Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference. Together, we can create a positive, lasting change in our community.

Success Stories

Meet some of the incredible individuals who have benefited from our program:

• Aiden: A young man from an indigenous community left behind his gang life and found purpose and direction through his work with rescue animals in our program.
• Jordan: A 2SLGBTQ+ youth who built confidence and leadership skills while caring for our furry friends at the daycare facility and at local animal shelters and abroad.
• Sophia: A new immigrant who discovered a sense of belonging and community through our mentorship program. She has been inspired to enrol into Veterinarian school

These stories are just a few examples of how the Pawsitive Futures Youth Outreach program is making a difference.

Join Us

Help us create a brighter future for at-risk youth and their furry companions. Whether you volunteer your time or donate to our cause, your support is invaluable. Together, we can empower and uplift the next generation. To learn more about how you can get involved, visit our website or contact us at [insert contact information].

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