ASPIRE afterschool program in the city of Downey, California, worked with our nonprofit partner, Karma Rescue, to provide visits and assemblies for the K-8th grade youth. The staff and volunteers from Karma Rescue spent time educating the students on Karma Rescue’s mission. The students heard how important it is to find a permanent home for dogs and other animals in shelters. They also learned about the importance of getting pets fixed (spay/neutered) to reduce the shelter population. Lastly, they learned about dog breeds and some misconceptions. They enjoyed being able to spend time with a Karma Rescue dog too.
ASPIRE serves 1,200 students daily on twelve school campuses from school dismissal until 6pm. In addition to homework, clubs, physical education, and arts, the students select service learning projects to give back to the community.
The students and staff utilize the Project Giving Kids website to find projects. This month, their choice was easy, selecting “aiding the animals.” They chose activities from the PGK site outlining how to make dog toys and blankets that would benefit the dogs they learned about.
We are proud of ASPIRE students for making over 682 dog toys and 10 mini blankets. However, according to Michelle Jenney, Program Supervisor, it would not have been possible without the collaboration of Project Giving Kids and Karma Rescue.
