K9 Connection: Improving the Lives of At-Risk Youth and Homeless Dogs

Founded in 2005, K9 Connection is a 501(c)(3) project of the Ocean Park Community Center in Santa Monica, California. The experience-based program helps at-risk teens ages 14 to 18 gain positive self-esteem and compassion as they train homeless shelter dogs in basic obedience. In assisting the dogs learn the skills they need to become adoptable, the teenagers in turn develop the skills they need to become responsible members of the community.

K9 Connection's three-week programs are limited to eight pairs of teens and dogs per class and consist of both indoor and outdoor sessions. Inside the classroom, K9 students set and work on goals for their dogs and themselves. Outside, they are given the opportunity to apply classroom ideas in the real world as they learn to train their dogs through positive reinforcement.

The program concludes with a graduation ceremony for the teens and the placement of each dog in a loving, permanent home. After graduation, K9 Connection checks in with each student monthly to provide continued mentorship.