Boys & Girls Club of Arlington youth are gaining leadership and animal awareness skills

Arlington's Boys & Girls Club is dedicated to a multi-year national project that is all about responsible pet ownership. In December, Arlington Animal Services Administrative Coordinator Cheri Colbert spoke to the enthusiastic group of approximately 150 youth, with pet therapy dog Deacon by her side.

Colbert addressed responsible pet ownership and ways youth can get involved to give back to the community. Volunteerism leads to development of skills and fulfillment that lasts a lifetime.

Read the quote from Boys & Girls Club Assistant Director of Program Development Santiago Saenz:

"PAWS - Protect Animals with Service (PAWS), the current Torch Club National Project, focuses on caring for and ensuring the well-being of animals. Torch Club members around the country selected this theme as the focus of the 2012, 2013 and 2014 service projects. PAWS will culminate in a one-day service event that will take place between January 1 and December 31, 2012. The hope is this project will continue throughout the year. PAWS will strengthen Torch Club members' knowledge of the needs of animals and animal rescues - locally, nationally and globally. As Torch Club members work together to plan and implement PAWS, they will discover how to be good leaders in their communities. They will learn how to set a good example for those who look up to them. These young people will also understand the importance of helping animals, and showing they care through their commitment and actions.'

Colbert welcomed the experience of interacting with the Boys & Girls Club youth, and she anticipates the project will have far reaching positive effects for years to come.

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Learn about volunteering

Visit the Animal Services website

For more information, contact Arlington Animal Services at 817-459-5898.