Story Dogs seek Surf Coast volunteers

WITH Term 1 of schooling underway, non-for-profit organisation Story Dogs are on the lookout for Surf Coast based volunteers keen to lend their time to make a positive difference in local schools.

Set up in states across Australia, Story Dogs and their dedicated volunteers assist primary school pupils to become lifelong readers by bringing in dogs who students can read to with no judgement.

Story Dogs Geelong co-ordinator and 2022 Westfield Local Heroes winner Karen Knuckey said the group now had a few spots vacant on the Surf Coast, with those interested asked to come forward.

“In the Surf Coast area we are looking for some people with lovely dogs to come and join the program.

“This is one of those rare opportunities for people to bring their best friend and have some lovely time with them and the children.

“It’s enriching for all!”

 

Ms Knuckey said the volunteer-led program was mostly aimed at children with a lower level of reading and those who are becoming disengaged with their literacy skills.

“There is no expectation of the kids to get their reading right, and we tell the kids that the dog can’t read and they just laugh.

“We are taking away the pressure for them to actually get it right, we encourage them to read for fun and we want them to be confident lifelong readers.

“The kids generally come along to pat and be with the dogs, they may not like reading, but they are happy to come and play with the dogs.”

She said all dogs are assessed and trained for the program, while volunteers are also given some training to help facilitate sessions.

“We take all dogs other than restricted breeds.

“They must pass behaviour, temperament and basic obedience tests and they must be a minimum of 12 months old.”

Knuckey said that all volunteers must be available for at least two hours a week at the same time every week.

or more information and to get in contact with Story Dogs about volunteering with your pet, head to storydogs.org.au/geelong