Through hands-on experiences and meaningful interactions with animals, Peoria Humane Society helps young people build kindness, empathy, responsibility, and compassion that can last a lifetime.
Since 2005, Paws to Read has helped children of all ages strengthen their reading skills by reading aloud to specially trained therapy dogs. The program visits schools and libraries throughout the Peoria area, giving young readers a relaxed and encouraging place to practice without worrying about making mistakes.
With a devoted canine partner by their side, children can have fun reading while building confidence, improving literacy skills, and developing a love for both books and animals. For many children, a patient therapy dog makes the perfect reading companion.
Kids Camp gives middle school students an opportunity to explore the world of animals through hands-on learning and interactive experiences.
Campers spend time learning about a wide variety of animals while gaining a deeper understanding of animal welfare, responsible pet care, and the important work being done to support animals in our community. From shelter animals to reptiles, birds, horses, and more, every day offers new opportunities to learn, ask questions, and have fun. It’s a week designed to inspire curiosity, compassion, and a lifelong appreciation for animals.
Each year, students from our partner schools participate in the Be Kind to Animals Poster Contest as part of Be Kind to Animals Week.
Using creativity, color, and imagination, students create posters that reflect the values of kindness, responsibility, respect, and peace. The contest encourages young people to think about how their actions affect animals while sharing positive messages with their schools and community.
Kindhearted Kids teaches children what it means to care for a pet through a fun, hands-on experience.
Each student is paired with a stuffed dog or cat with its own name, background, and care needs. Throughout the program, children complete daily care activities, track responsibilities, and learn about responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.
Children form meaningful connections with their pets, create accessories and special spaces for them, and take pride in their responsibilities. Along the way, they develop empathy, accountability, and a deeper understanding of what animals need to thrive.
When children learn kindness and respect for animals, those lessons often carry into other areas of life. Through our youth programs, we’re helping young people develop empathy, responsibility, and compassion.
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