At a doggy day care in Columbus, Ohio, pets are loved and employees are given opportunities.
"Everything is a life lesson. We don't sit down and have class time, but everything that we do is, in some way, shape, or form, something to help them in the future," middle school special education teacher Stephanie Sanzo stated to People.
Stephanie Sanzo, a special education teacher, and Megan Ramage, an educational assistant, observed how therapy dogs improved students' communication and development in the classroom. Pathways to Independence of Central Ohio was born in 2015.
Pathways, now one of Columbus' top-rated dog daycares, has an average of 80 canine clients per day and currently has 16 unpaid adult "interns" with special needs ranging in age from 18 to 65.
Pathways to Independence offers daycare, boarding, and grooming services.
Pathways provide young adults with employment and transition opportunities after graduation. Their work at the daycare allows them to enrich both their own lives and the lives of others.
"This is their happy place; this is where they can come every day and know that they're going to be loved and supported and have fun. Every day is something new — every day is something fun," educational assistant Megan Ramage stated to People.
Closing Thoughts
Pathways to Independence is a wonderful organization that makes a difference in the lives of dogs and people with developmental disabilities. It's great to see organizations like this one that provide valuable opportunities for people with developmental disabilities to learn new skills and contribute to their community in meaningful ways.
Visit the nonprofit's website to learn more about Pathways to Independence of Central Ohio and donate to its cause.
What are your thoughts on this inspiring nonprofit? Let us know in the comments.
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