Read to the Dogs (in-person, age 18+)

Looking for an opportunity to volunteer at the library with your certified therapy dog? Read to the Dogs is a popular program that gives kids the opportunity to make a new friend and improve their reading. We are looking for enthusiastic dog/person teams to help young readers build their confidence by practicing their reading skills. All teams must be certified prior to applying. If you’re not yet certified, check out Pet Partners, Portland Area Canine Therapy Teams, or Alliance for Therapy Dogs for more information.

Time Commitment: Minimum two, 1-hour - 2 hour shifts per month for six months 

Current Openings

St. Johns Library, Thursdays 1-2 hours, any time between 2:00 - 6:00 pm

Duties

  • Accompany certified therapy dog at all times

  • Facilitate positive reading experiences with young struggling readers

  • Provide a good interaction between your therapy dog and individual children and parents

  • Teach children about how to positively interact with animals

  • Maintain therapy animal certification through the duration of volunteer position

Qualifications

  • Current Certification by Pet Partners, Portland Canine Therapy Team, or Alliance of Therapy Dogs is required

  • Ability to pass a criminal record check

  • Minimum 18 years or older

  • Patience and flexibility

  • Comfort working with diverse groups of people and diverse learning abilities

  • Comfort working with various ages of young children

  • Fluency in written and spoken English

  • Empathy and a friendly demeanor

  • Ability to work as part of a team and to collaborate with volunteers and staff 

Benefits

  • Gain leadership skills

  • Help youth with literacy skills

  • Interact with children from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds

  • Engage in a meaningful service

  • Contribute to our mission: The leading advocate for reading

Training

  • Onboarding and orientation to volunteering at Multnomah County Library staff at the host location