PAWS Wellness Support Team (Dog & Handler)- Bring joy, comfort, and connection to schools and community spaces with your dog! - Indianapolis, IN

About the PAWS Wellness Support Program:

The PAWS Wellness Support Program brings registered handler–dog teams into schools and community spaces to share joy, comfort, and connection with young people through the power of the human–dog bond. PAWS visits don't just benefit youth–they are joyful, bonding experiences for dogs & their humans!

Our PAWS handler and dog teams work in a variety of settings, such as small group discussions with school counselors, classrooms, outdoor recreation, and stress reduction during finals week. While we do offer other volunteer opportunities, our PAWS Wellness Support Program volunteer opportunities typically take place during the school year.

What will you and your dog do?

• Offer moments of joy, comfort, & connection to middle & high school students
• Support educators & contribute to a nurturing & welcoming school culture
• Model kindness, empathy, healthy boundaries, & positive interaction
• Do meaningful work together—work that dogs genuinely enjoy

Is Our PAWS Program a Good Fit for You & Your Dog?

Handler Requirements:

• Age 16+
• Calm, compassionate, and reliable
• Comfortable working with youth and educators
• Able to advocate for your dog
• Willing to complete training, orientation, and background check (18+)

Dog Requirements:

• At least 1 year old (and with handler for 6+ months)
• Friendly, gentle, and people-oriented
• Comfortable in busy school settings
• Strong basic obedience (loose leash, sit, stay, come, leave it)
• Healthy and up to date on vaccinations

To learn more about this volunteer opportunity, please submit your information through the Idealist website. If you have questions or need more information, please contact Melissa Panter, Volunteer Coordinator with Kindling Minds, at mpanter@kindlingminds.org. We hope to connect with you soon!