Reading Buddies 101
Want to help shelter animals feel more comfortable and relaxed? Adults and kids alike are welcome to join us for a one-time orientation, Reading Buddies 101, and gain access to read to our animals anytime during open hours! Your participation not only benefits you, but it also provides our animals with soothing companionship and support.
All Reading Buddies and accompanying adults must complete the orientation session to participate. In Reading Buddies 101, you’ll learn about dog and cat body language, helping you better understand how our animals are feeling. We’ll cover responsibilities, check-in procedures, and everything you need to know to be an amazing Reading Buddy. After completing training, you’ll receive a name tag, allowing you to read to the animals whenever we’re open!
KIDS & FAMILIES
For: Children under the age of 16
*Any parent or guardian who plans to accompany a reader to HSC must also attend orientation and remain with reader(s) at all times
Orientation Duration: 60 minutes
Cost: $20 per child
– accompanying adults are included in this price
ADULTS & TEENS 16+
For: Adults and teens who are 16 years or older
*16- & 17-year-olds must have a parent or guardian attend orientation with them, but may return to read on their own
Orientation Duration: 30 minutes
Cost: $20 per reader
Refund Policy: Full refund or date transfer available if canceled at least 3 days (72 hours) before your scheduled orientation.
Financial aid is available for participation in the Reading Buddies 101 – Click here to apply.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Both you and Grandpa must attend Reading Buddies 101. All adults accompanying children need to attend the orientation training. Register your child, and list all attending adult names when prompted. All three (child, parent, and grandpa) must attend the training.
Just once! Every individual coming to HSC to read to the animals must have completed Reading Buddies 101. If additional children in the family want to participate later, the adult chaperone must accompany them, even if it’s the adult’s second time attending an orientation. Children require adult supervision for both orientation and reading sessions.
Refunds are available up to 3 days before the program date for any cancellations. Within 3 days of the program, we cannot offer refunds or change your registration to another date. It will be considered a donation to HSC.
Yes, but a parent or guardian must attend orientation with them first. They cannot bring anyone with them who has not attended a Reading Buddies 101 orientation.
You can request a new nametag here. You can pick up your new nametag on the Reading Buddies cart in the Adoptions Lobby.
Contact
Have other questions or need help registering?
Email education@humanecharlotte.org.