Volunteers with the Imagine Academy R.E.A.D Program provides the use of and interaction with School Reading Therapy Dogs to encourage and excite patient’s interest in reading, improve reading skills and support emotional and social benefits.
These volunteers must enjoy interacting with children and teens and be alert/sensitive to their needs. R.E.A.D. volunteers must also exhibit warm, friendly, and patient mannerisms, and be able to function independently and work effectively with others without direct supervision.
Requirements prior to applying to this program
- All R.E.A.D volunteers must be certified by Mid-South Therapy Dogs
- Handlers and visiting dogs must meet with School Program personnel and for initial screening and introduction to program requirements.
- These volunteers must be fluent in the English language.
- The required immunization of the visiting dog must be current and on file with the Family, Guest & Volunteer Services Department.