PAWS "Kids Who Care" Humane Education Program provides school children the opportunity to learn about, understand and appreciate the animals in their homes, communities and world. More than 2,200 students have participated since its inception in 2000. Sheridan, PAWS humane educator, visits classrooms for six weekly sessions, helping kids learn about responsible companion animal care, stray dog safety, the importance of spaying and neutering, responsible coexistence with wildlife, wildlife rescue and fun facts about farm animals. The program primarily concentrates on fourth-graders, but PAWS also visits kindergartens, high schools, home-schools and ESL classes. (English as a second language.)

The value of humane education programs is backed by research. A study conducted by Northeastern University and the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals found that over a twenty-year period, a group of people who had abused animals as youths were 5 times more likely to commit violent crimes, 4 times more likely to commit property crimes and 3 times more likely to have drug or disorderly conduct offenses. PAWS works hard to remedy these grim statistics by nurturing the empathy and kindness inherent in every child. There is no other program in the greater Seattle area teaching the ethics and behaviors conveyed through PAWS’ Humane Education Program.

Demand for PAWS "Kids Who Care" program has increased and there are now long lists of schools waiting to be served.

We are recruiting individuals with teaching and or training backgrounds to serve as interns to help extend the reach of the program. In addition, we are seeking long-term funding from foundations and corporate sponsors that will ensure that the Humane Education program will continue to make a difference in the lives of children throughout the Pacific Northwest. If you are interested in contributing to this program, please contact PAWS at 425.742.4009 x807.