dorchester paws
The Dorchester Paws Youth Leadership Program is a service-based leadership experience for
youth ages 12–18 designed to inspire compassion, build leadership skills, and empower young
people to make a real difference for animals in our community.
Through education, advocacy, and hands-on service, participants learn how animal shelters
operate and how individuals can create meaningful impact for homeless pets.
Learn
Animal Welfare Education: Participants watch a Dorchester Paws introduction video and attend a 90 minute interactive Youth Animal Welfare Leadership Workshop focused on shelter operations, responsible pet ownership, and community impact.
Lead
Fundraising or Advocacy Project: Youth work together to design and complete a project supporting Dorchester Paws such as a donation drive, fundraising campaign, awareness project, recycling drive, community event, or creative merchandise design. Groups aim to raise $500 or equivalent donation value.
Serve
Leadership in Action Service Day: Participants conclude the program with a hands-on service experience at Dorchester Paws supporting enrichment, adoption materials, and operational activities while learning how shelters help animals find homes.
Program Completion
Participants receive a Certificate of Youth Animal Leadership, community service hours documentation, a digital badge for resumes or college applications, and recognition by Dorchester Paws.
Program Details
Eligibility: Youth ages 12–18
Group Size: 3–15 participants
Adult Supervision: Required
Program Length: Approximately 4–6 weeks
Registration Fee: $100 per group
Get Involved
