Excited about the start of the program " Friend in Me"

[Kyoko]

Today, I had a discussion with my supervisor who is a director of student services and one of the guidance counselor who is a dog lover. ( I am a school social worker)

We have number of students who are sort of misifts, withdrawn, school phobia, etc....eventually affecting their attedance and grades. And they always happen to be animal lovers!! So I thought about discussing the possibility of bringing in the therapy dog to school for these kids for some individual "love" time!!

I was really inspired by this group and your discussion, and thought about this.

My supervisor and the guidance counselor thought this will be a great idea.

So, I contacted my TDI prep class trainer and it looks like it is going to happen after the holiday!!!

The guidance counselor and I began to discuss more of the details and concrete criteria, etc... And we think we are going to call this group " Friend in Me"

I am so excited about this.

We are also discussing the possibility of taking some of the similar kids to local animal shelter to volunteer.

I am hoping that these kids will find some healing....

[Cheryl and Finnegan]

Kyoko, that's awesome!!! I love the name and I think this is going to be an amazing journey for you and the kids!  Please keep us posted and share your experiences :)

[Kyoko]

Thanks! I think the power of unspoken from the dogs are amazing. I am so excited....

And I am sure that I would learn a lot from being with already "Professional" therapy dogs and their handers.....

[DJ & Chance]

Kyoko,  this is wonderful.  The name is perfect!  I know that this will make a huge difference for some of the children you work with--and that is what matters most.  Please keep us posted!

[Kyoko]

Thanks!!

[charlotte bednarsh]

Kyoko, all I can say is Wow!!!!  You are developing programs that will really bring so much joy to children that are often disenfranchised and difficult to reach in so many ways, and who truly deserve a chance!  Please keep us posted and let us know how it is going, and if there is anything we can do! Way to go!

[Kyoko]

Paz's story and your blog was very inspiring.  We are going to have  one session in December without the dog so that kids can become familiar with the group.  And the kids will have something wonderful to look forward to coming back to school after the holiday, since the dog can only start after the holiday...

[Debbi & Harley]

That is INCREDIBLE!!  Where are you located - I cannot wait to hear how this progresses!  Congratulations!!!

[Kyoko]

I am in PIttsburgh PA. This year, I have a great supervisor who buys my ideas!!

 

[Joanne ~ Spud*]

Congratulations :)
I can't wait to hear how it's going

[Kyoko]

Thanks Joanne. It is moving quicker than I anticipated!! Pinot Grigio's trainer got OK from her supervisor to cover all cost as grant write off!! So all of the visits with the dog will be at no cost!

[Kyoko]

Pinot Grigio's trainer and the group goes to Pitt ( University of Pittsburgh ) and POint Park University as well. May be someone can come to your college, too!

[BG and Gavin]

Great idea and love the name.  I will be staying tuned to this thread to hear how things pan out.