Looking for a way for your child to practice their reading skills while also making a difference in the lives of animals in need? Look no further! HSVC's Animal Reading Friends (ARF) program is back and looking for young readers to read to our shelter animals. Join us at the shelter, located at 402 Bryant St. in Ojai, every Wednesday and Saturday from 10:30 - 12:30 pm for a morning of reading fun!

This program is an excellent opportunity for children to expand their reading skills. It's also a wonderful experience for our shelter animals! Studies show that spending just three minutes with a shelter pet increases their Serotonin levels. Each time an ARF member reads their favorite book to one of our animals, they are helping adoptable animals be happier and healthier too!

As an added bonus, readers will also receive a punch pass ARF card upon their first visit. The more times they join us, the more prizes they will be eligible for! It's a win for everyone!

Don't forget to join us next month for our ARF Event with special guests from Ojai Valley Library and the Turtle Conservancy! They will be at the shelter on Saturday, October 8th, from 10:30 - 12:30 participating in all the fun. Please contact Volunteer Coordinator Sarah Fraza at [email protected] with any questions. We look forward to seeing you!