Half Day Helpers is a youth volunteer program for elementary school students in grades 2-5. On select days off from school, many of which coincide with major holidays such as Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Veterans Day and the day before Thanksgiving, students spend three hours at AWS directly helping the animals, all while learning compassion, kindness and empathy.

Students work together to make a treat, toy or activity for the animals, which are often holiday-themed. Students also complete tasks in the Adoption Center to positively and directly help the animals. Tasks could include providing fresh bedding, brushing cats, preparing snacks for dogs, or visiting with rabbits and birds, depending on the needs of the Adoption Center that day. By participating directly with the animals, children see firsthand how they make a difference.

Half Day Helpers is offered on a very limited basis. Students are encouraged to check out our At-Home Project Guide for volunteer opportunities to be completed conveniently at home!

AWS Youth Programs follow the RSU21 (Kennebunk) school calendar. If there is a snow day or if the district shifts to remote learning, AWS programs will not take place in-person.