Animals are such incredible teachers. They immediately bring our focus to the present, open our hearts, encourage us to engage with others, and spread joy. The Nature Connection has recognized these abilities for over 30 years and seeks to grow our programs that bring natural materials and animals to people with limited access to the outside world.
How You Can Help
The Nature Connection is currently seeking new animals to “volunteer” with us at our therapeutic nature programs. If you live in Concord, MA or the surrounding towns (anywhere in Middlesex County would be considered) and have a small pet with therapeutic/educational potential, we would love to hear from you. Please contact Pam McKenna at pmckenna@nature-connection.org or (978) 369-2585.
Two program participants pet a black and white rabbit in a basket.
In particular, we’re looking for host families of:
- Rabbits, Chinchillas, Guinea Pigs
- Ducks and Chickens
- Turtles, Lizards, Snakes
- Other sweet or unusual animals we should meet!
How to know your pet would make a good NC volunteer:
- Your animal enjoys meeting new people/groups of people.
- Your animal is comfortable being touched by strangers.
- Your animal thrives in new situations and environments.
- Your animal is comfortable traveling in the car. They are willing to travel in a crate or container.
- Your animal has never bitten anyone.
- You or a member of your household are available for weekday pickups and drop-offs, Tuesday through Friday sometime between 9am and 6pm (it can work if there are specific days that someone is home).
Check out the animals currently “on staff.”
It’s important, fulfilling work—for us, for the participants, and for the animals themselves. Not to mention how it makes you feel. Supporting NC’s program animals helps enrich the lives of so many in such a significant way.
