Paw Pals reach struggling children when no-one else can.
Caleb is 14 years old and sleeping in class… swearing at teachers… and at risk of dropping out of school for good. But a loyal, four-legged friend with a compassionate wet nose helped to rewrite this young man’s future! Today, your kindness will give that same gift to other kids just like him.
That’s why we need your urgent support to raise $160,000 to fund life-changing Paw Pal sessions for young people at risk of dropping out of school forever.
Donate to keep young people in school
All donations over $2 are tax-deductible
Problem: Children at risk...
Imagine years in and out of hotel rooms and residential care. Growing up without a stable home would leave anyone anxious and isolated. But for Caleb, who is autistic, the trauma was even more significant.
In his residential care home, he barely left his room – much less talked to anyone or stepped foot outside. And by the time he was 14, he’d given up on going to school entirely.
But what Caleb didn’t know was that your school attendance is one of the strongest indicators of whether you are likely to drop out of school. So every class he skipped put his education – and future – in further jeopardy.
Solution: Paw Pals reduce school drop out
Thankfully Caleb met a furry friend named Luna… along with her caring facilitator, Mel. When all else had failed, Luna’s warmth and non-judgmental love reached this young person’s heart. Her encouragement gave Caleb the courage and motivation to try going back to school.
Without Paw Pals, the future of young people like Caleb hangs in the balance. However, with patience, persistence and plenty of doggy love… your compassion can help keep them in school. From now until they graduate!
The difference you make to kids struggling at school
You’re helping keep kids calm
A Paw Pal like Luna helps Caleb to lower his anxiety, deal with the stress of learning as well as keep control of his emotions in class.
You’re getting kids to school
A Paw Pal in class helps to reignite a love of learning. Caleb would come to school every day, just to spend more time with his four-legged friend.
You’re helping kids be brave
Caleb’s Paw Pal helped him grow in confidence. It began with him simply talking and laughing with his classmates… and ended with him becoming a student leader.
You’re giving kids new skills
Because he stayed in school and made it to Year 11, Caleb can start training in motor mechanics and hospitality… giving him more job opportunities in future!
Testimonials
Paw Pals has changed my life for the better because it gave me a sense of connection and something to look forward to (when I was living in resi). It helped me get back into school and even now, Paw Pals still helps me because coming to my session each week helps me feel less overwhelmed with everything in my life.
Caleb, age 17
Paw Pals is really good... I really appreciate it because it helps with my anger issues and I reckon it’s really good for people. I’m happy when I’m at Paw Pals, you know.”
Cooper, age 12
It helps me to relax and connect with dogs and people. If I get told you guys are coming in puts me in a good mood. It does brighten up my day every time. I get up and get things done.
Willow, age 16
Often these young people are aged between 12-18… many of them are completely disengaged from education. The Paw Pals program has a significant number of teens participate and we have had great success. We work with them to build rapport… and foster opportunities for them to consider their educational options.
Belinda, Wellbeing Coordinator
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