Animal Rescue League of Iowa: Build-A-Bear Youth Humane Education Grant Report

How did this grant help your organization and the pets in your care?

The Animal Rescue League of Iowa (ARL) used the grant funds to provide 26 Animal Safety Program presentations to Des Moines public school elementary school classrooms.

The ARL's Animal Safety Program gives elementary students (kindergarten – 3rd grade) in the city of Des Moines the tools to be safe and responsible around animals with a focus on bite prevention (According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, children under the age of 12 are at the highest risk for dog bites) and connect families resources at ARL to keep pets healthy and safe and with the family that loves them. Additionally, the students get to practice what they have learned and demonstrate how to safely interact with a certified TheraPets dog (and handler).

How many pets did this grant help?

This grant allowed the ARL to provide our Animal Safety Program (at no cost) to 477 elementary aged school children that attend Des Moines Public Schools. This program impacted the students, their family and friends, and their current and future pets.

Please provide a story of one or more specific pets this grant helped.

The grant was for humane education and provided our Animal Safety Program to elementary school-aged children. “Our Animal Safety Program provides the children with a great opportunity for them to learn about the animals, how to treat others, safety, responsible pet care and so much more.” said Tom Colvin, Executive Director with the Animal Rescue League of Iowa. “Through this program the relationship with the ARL begins with the children, and impacts their family and friends, their current and future pets, and the community as whole. We’re so thankful to have received this grant in order to provide this important (and fun) program.”