Education is the key to change.
This program focus's on chiildren in grade school. There are two areas of significant importance in our schools right now; Character Education- focusing on how to be kind and accepting of others and Humane Education- being kind to animals.

Our system would incorporate both of these key areas by utilizing special needs dog in the classroom. By allowing special dogs to teach human social issues we provide the classroom with a safe environment for children to ask questions and spark discussions over topics which might be socially unacceptable to ask a human. Thereby, breaking down the barrier of fear, holding children back from socially interacting with people who are different from them.

For instance, a child can ask the owner of the special dog how he goes to the bathroom, if he is paralyzed. The person can answer based on his/her knowledge about their dog and then can provide an example of how a human would do this (information we would provide to the presenter). This creates understanding and eliminates the fear of the unknown so many children have.

These children are the adults of tomorrow. When they meet and understand a special dog we hope when they are adults they will be more open to adopting or caring for them. Or they will share what they have learned with their parents.

Trials:

The founder of Molly Inspires, Mandy Evans has been taking Molly, her paraplegic pug into classrooms for the past three years. Mandy has seen first hand the significant reaction in the children not only in the classroom but outside.

“Molly and I walk the beach often here in Santa Barbara. One day, a little girl ran up to us and yelled, “Hi Molly”! This was not an unusual occurrence for us. Because we go into so many schools children usually recognize us and like to introduce Molly to their parents. But this little girl told me a story that confirmed everything I thought I was trying to accomplish with our visits. This wonderful little girl told me about a man she approached in a wheelchair. She admitted to being scared but thought of Molly. She told the man Molly’s story and was rewarded with a big smile and thank you from him. She said he was really happy she shared with him.”

By Mandy and Molly’s visit to this little girl's elementary school she bridged a gap between a special human and a curious little girl. And at the same time this little girl had unknowingly become an ambassador for special dogs.

Who:

In order to create this program we will partner with teachers, humane educators and human special needs organizations.

What:

This system would specifically be reading materials for the special dog owner to help them field any questions or properly share information with the children. There would also be pre and post teacher information to help the classroom have a rounded, full experience. Depending on the requirements of the individuals and groups involved in the creation this system we may have additional visuals, handout etc. to provide to the children.

Where:

This program would be initiated in Santa Barbara, California with the hope of national exposure.

How:

We need your help. Donations to this program are always welcomed and we understand knowledge is power. If you or someone you know is interested in volunteering to assist us with this program, please contact us.