Project Purpose

Collage of students participating in Project Purpose

Project Purpose is a unique opportunity for young animal advocates to learn more about Animal Humane Society while empowering them to help make the world a better place for animals.

Project Purpose can also be used to fulfill school or club community service requirements. 

Grades 7–10 

Meeting every other week, students in grades 7–10 will learn about animal welfare and get a behind-the-scenes look at an animal shelter while participating in hands-on service projects and tasks led by our humane education staff. From washing kennels and walking dogs, to socializing critters and assisting AHS staff, youth will play a critical role in ensuring animals are provided with comfort and care as they await adoption into loving new homes.

Grades 3–6

Students in grades 3–6 will learn how shelters play a critical role in animal welfare and focus on service projects — creating materials that can be used to enrich the lives of animals in shelter or foster care.

Registration details

Students will meet approximately every other week. Please refer to the specific meeting dates* and times provided below.

Participants should wear closed-toed shoes and comfortable clothing that can get dirty.

*Did you miss the start date? Don't worry! Because this program runs throughout the season, we're happy to enroll participants mid-session and prorate the program fee. Reach out via our contact form with questions.

Register now

Golden Valley Group 1: Wednesdays beginning January 24*

Program fee: $220

Ages: 7-10 grade

Time: 6-7:30 PM

Group 1 program dates:

  • January 24
  • February 7
  • February 21
  • March 6
  • March 20
  • April 3
  • April 17

 

Golden Valley Group 2: Thursdays beginning January 25*

Program fee: $220

Ages: 7-10 grade

Time: 6-7:30 PM

Group 2 program dates:

  • January 25
  • February 8
  • February 22
  • March 7
  • March 21
  • March 28
  • April 18

 

Woodbury: Tuesdays beginning January 30*

Program fee: $220

Ages: 7-10 grade

Time: 6-7:30 PM

Program dates:

  • January 30
  • February 13
  • February 27
  • March 12
  • March 26
  • April 9
  • April 23

 

Coon Rapids: Wednesdays beginning January 31*

Program fee: $200

Ages: 3-6 grade

Time: 6-7PM

Program dates:

  • January 31
  • February 14
  • February 28
  • March 13
  • March 27
  • April 10
  • April 24

 

Example service projects:

  • Adoption Packets
  • Adoption Postcards
  • Critter enrichment items
  • Shoebox puzzle toys
  • Tying blankets
  • Organizing donations

Shelter activities:

  • Filling Kong toys
  • Doing dishes and laundry
  • Spot cleaning kennels and litterboxes
  • Walking dogs
  • Providing enrichment
  • Socializing shy or energetic animals

Questions?

Review our education program policies and FAQs. For additional information about Project Purpose or other programs, please complete our contact form.

For caring, compassionate advice and resources to address all your animal concerns.

Contact the Pet Helpline