Book Buddies Program

Book Buddies is available to children in grades 1st through 8th who are able to read at any skill level. This program is designed to assist children in developing and improving their reading skills while also helping the shelter animals by providing socialization and human interaction. Cats find the rhythmic sound of a human voice very comforting and soothing. This opportunity gives children the chance to read in a non-judgmental environment and find the support and comfort they need through the companionship of a shelter cat.

Do you want to participate? Space is limited so sign up today! Parents/Guardians: reservations are required to ensure that HSHA has the space and volunteers available to assist you and your child(ren). Time slots are available all year long on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the day and from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Plan ahead, schedule reoccurring book buddies sessions and help improve your child’s reading level while supporting the cat population at the shelter.

Please Note: You will receive confirmation of your reserved Book Buddies session. Children that show up without a reserved time slot will not be able to participate in the program.

If you are interested in Book Buddies, please fill out the form below.

HSHA Book Buddies Request Form

The Humane Society of Harrisburg Area, Inc. (HSHA) appreciates your interest in scheduling a Book Buddies session for your child. Our Book Buddy program allows children in grades 1-8 to read their own material to our shelter cats to gain confidence and practice reading while our cats enjoy some human interaction and socialization. As a non-profit organization that does not receive funding from the government or national organizations, HSHA relies on the support of the area we serve in Dauphin, Cumberland, and Perry Counties to fulfill our mission. Our ability to schedule sessions is dependent on a variety of factors, including the availability of HSHA volunteers and/or staff. During each Book Buddy session, HSHA will have an experienced Cat Socializer Volunteer take you and your child to the reading area, review the rules, and monitor the cat during the session. You (or your designee, named below) will be able to either sit with your child or visit the public shelter areas during your child’s session. You’re also asked to provide your child’s reading material.
Full Name of Child*
Child's Date of Birth*
MM slash DD slash YYYY
Grade*
School*
Parent/Guardian Full Name*
Address*
Street Address City State / Province / Region ZIP / Postal Code
Email*
Phone*
If any adult other than the Parent/Guardian named above will be chaperoning your child during this lesson, please provide
Full Name
Phone
Session Request
First Choice*
Second Choice*