Other Ways to Get Involved

Strength in numbers

You may find that other students share your interests, and when you work together as a team, you can get a lot accomplished. Many schools have animal clubs that meet to discuss issues and work on projects together. Such clubs have a history going back to 1881. They were called "Bands of Mercy."

Working together, your club can create posters, fliers or newsletters; speak on a specific topic to your school; work on a hands-on project in your community; and raise money or collect supplies to support an organization's cause. You may need to make small steps toward your goal in the beginning, but it will give you the confidence to keep moving forward.

Choose an adult advisor who can help you organize the group and work with you on your goals. If your group is school-based, a teacher or faculty member may help you with this. If your group is community-based, your advisor could be a parent, community leader or staff member of a local animal organization.

For more information on how to start an animal club, The Humane Society of the United States has a free "Student Action Guide" that provides step-by-step instructions. If your group is interested in companion animal issues, ask your advisor to call our Humane Education department to find out more about our presentations on kindness and compassion toward animals, the responsibility of pet ownership and the problem of pet overpopulation. We can come to your school or group location or you can visit either of our shelters.