For the 2023-2024 school year, Humane Education Youth (HEY) programs will begin sharing classroom presentations for schools and youth organizations starting in September. The programs will be shifting slightly to a more comprehensive humane education approach and will provide learners with empowering ways to help animals in their local communities. Inspiration struck when HEY decided that sharing information not only needs to focus on animals but also on the intersections of humans, nonhuman animals, and the planet. The goal of HEY programming is to engage youth audiences in learning more about companion animals and mindfully thinking of ways to create healthy ecosystems for our neighborhoods.

The HEY department has different seasons at the Humane Society of Ventura County (HSVC).  Our programs are provided year-round at the shelter in Ojai and will travel to various locations throughout the county to share information about the organization and animals in need in our community.  September through May is our “Classroom Season” called Imagining Compassionate Animal Neighborhoods (ICAN). Our goal for the school year is to increase the number of youth audiences reached in Ventura County, please consider telling your friends and colleagues about this classroom season’s presentations.

Below is a list of ICAN presentations and opportunities that you can inquire about. I look forward to co-educating with you and engaging youth learners in knowing more about ourselves, the environment, and of course our animals!

HSVC Friends - ALL AGES!

Virtual or Live Presentations Available (30-45 minutes): Educator Led- A mix of storytelling and a call to action

Companion Animal Neighborhoods- Grades K-2 Available

Virtual or Live Presentations Available (3-Day/1-hour per day)

Educator Facilitated-To foster awareness of neighborhood ecosystems and share knowledge of companion animals

 For the Love of Animals: Service-Learning Opportunities with HSVC (ALL AGES)

Virtual or Live Presentations Available (Times vary depending on the project)

Prerequisite: HSVC Friends (30-45 presentation)

Every service-learning opportunity is unique and tailored to address a concern driven by youth in schools and after-school settings. Learners interested in more information after the “HSVC Friends” presentation can request to complete a service project based on the learners’ strengths and curiosities.

 If you would like more information about our classroom season, please contact me, Angie Chupek Sagliani, at [email protected] or call 805-364-1350.