A Summer Volunteer Program for Youth at RAL

Calling all young animal lovers! Richmond Animal League is excited to launch a brand-new youth engagement program. The Dog (& Cat) Days of Summer. This FREE interactive, self-paced experience is designed to help kids make a difference in the lives of animals—while having fun and learning along the way.

Get Your Dog (& Cat) Days of Summer Packet!

🎯 Program Goals

  • Foster compassion and advocacy for shelter animals.

  • Provide hands-on learning and volunteer opportunities for children and families.

  • Support RAL’s mission to help cats and dogs find loving homes.

  • Build a connection between young people and their local animal welfare community.

😀 Who Can Participate?

  • Kids ages 6-14 (younger children may participate with adult assistance).

  • Open to individuals, families, school groups, and scout troops—all are welcome!

  • Participation is self-paced and can be completed throughout the summer.

📋 How It Works

Participants can download the Dog (and Cat) Days of Summer packet from RAL’s website, which includes:

  • A description of the “Dog (and Cat) Days of Summer program

  • Instructions for easy DIY crafts and cat/dog treat recipes

  • Ideas for community donation drives (pet food/supplies)

  • Instructions and downloadable handouts/flyers for lemonade stands

  • A progress tracker to mark completed tasks

Kids are encouraged to complete each step on the roadmap, including:

  • Help clean up a public park or pet area

  • Reading to your favorite dog or cat

  • Hosting a neighborhood donation drive or lemonade stand

  • Visiting the local library to pick up and read and book about animals

  • Creating handmade cat toys or dog treats

🎁 Special Summer Reward

As a thank you for their dedication, every child who completes the program and returns their progress trackers to RAL will receive their choice of a small plush cat or dog to keep—our way of celebrating their impact and compassion!

🐶😺 Why It Matters

At Richmond Animal League, we believe that every pet deserves a good life—and our youngest supporters can play a big role in making that vision a reality. Whether from your living room or your neighborhood, your child can be a voice and a helping hand for the animals who need it most.

📆 Program Dates

June 1st - August 31st

Drop off completed progress trackers, donated items or proceeds from lemonade stands anytime during our open hours and pick up your new fluffy friend.

Ready to get started?

Let’s make this summer unforgettable—for kids, for families, and for the animals.

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