A Unique Opportunity: Volunteer to Bring the Magic of Kids and Dogs Together!

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What is k9 connection? k9 connection, a project of OPCC, is a year-round program providing essential counseling, guidance and ongoing mentoring to high-risk youth and at-risk teens with the assistance of homeless shelter dogs throughout the greater Los Angeles area. Now in its sixth year of operations, k9 connection has served over 250 students and rescued countless homeless shelter dogs that deserved a second chance. Who are we looking for? General ProgramSupport (GPS) volunteers to participate in intensive three-week k9 connection curriculums with counselor referred teens at participating schools. What are the duties of a GPS Volunteer? As a GPS Volunteer you will partner with k9 staff in administering the k9 connection curriculum. Our curriculum involves one hour of goal-oriented classwork and one hour of basic obedience training for our rescued dogs. During the classwork portion of each day, volunteers will take the initiative to join group discussions and provide individual attention to particular students as they see fit. During the dog training portion of each day, volunteers will assist students as they follow the instructions of our staff trainer. GPS volunteers are not assistants to k9 staff--they are our partners. Accordingly, k9 connection seeks motivated applicants who are willing to roll up their sleeves and invest themselves in our mission.When are these programs offered? Times and dates for classes vary, but all k9 connection classes are held during regular school hours. Each program meets five days a week (weekdays only) for three consecutive weeks. After the conclusion of each individual program, there is usually a three-to-six week break before the next program begins. Where are programs offered?Currently all programs are offered in educational institutions in Santa Monica or in convenient proximity to Santa Monica. Is there a minimum time commitment? Yes. All GPS volunteers are required to attend a minimum of three classes per week for each individual three-week program they wish to participate in. To sign up please visit our website at www.k9connection.org

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