Charleston Animal Society is offering an exciting way for kids to spend their summer participating in the Raising Readers program! This is an amazing program that fosters literacy in children while providing comfort to animals awaiting adoption. Sponsored by Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers, this initiative is back for its second year, and they’re inviting more children to be part of it!
Since last year, they’ve celebrated almost 5,900 pages read and welcomed 347 eager kids (that's an estimated 600 books)!
KIDS 5+ INVITED TO COME READ
Children aged 5 and up are invited to read aloud to shelter animals in a calm and nurturing environment. This unique program not only helps young readers build confidence and fluency but also provides much-needed comfort to shelter pets who thrive on positive human interaction.
As a child opens a book and begins to read, the bustling sounds of the shelter fade away. A sense of peace envelops both the child and the animal, creating a magical moment of connection.
“Our shelter pets love the company of children reading to them," said Lindsey Cummins, Charleston Animal Society Humane Education Coordinator. “And for children, it's an incredibly rewarding way to practice reading skills."
How It Works:
- Sessions: 30 minutes long
- Days: Monday–Friday, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
- Ages: Open to children ages 5 and up
- Cost: $5 per session — includes exclusive Raising Cane’s swag
- Accompaniment: Each child must be accompanied by a parent or guardian
- Orientation: All participants must watch a short orientation video before visiting
WHERE LITERACY MEETS COMPASSION
Studies show that reading aloud to animals can significantly improve reading proficiency. Children who participate in programs like Raising Readers often read more frequently and with increased confidence. Not only do children enjoy the experience but 75% improve their reading skills according to parents surveyed.
As the proud sponsor of this program, Raising Cane’s adds a special touch to each reading session. Every child who participates will receive fun Raising Cane’s swag to celebrate their efforts!
"Reading to animals encourages literacy, confidence and compassion in young readers," said Alison Bechtoldt, Area Leader of Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers Restaurants. "Supporting animal welfare is part of who we are at Raising Cane's, and we're proud to partner with Charleston Animal Society on a program that positively impacts both children and animals."
Sign up for a reading session and watch the orientation video at CharlestonAnimalSociety.org/