EDUCATION . . . The Bridge
to a Better Life for Animals
By Suzanne Gassner
In a world of fast-paced, high technology, there seems
to be a loss of connection with animals and the world
we share. You rise to an alarm clock, turn on the coffee,
blow dry your hair, dodge traffic, sit at a computer
entering data, rush home, microwave dinner, turn on
the TV and reset the alarm clock for yet another day.
And then you hear the story. A dog is cruelly chained
to the back of a pick up truck and dragged nearly a
mile “to teach it a lesson” or a kitten
is stuffed inside a mailbox and set on fire “for
fun.” Have we become a society that is so indifferent
to the plight of another creature that there is no time
to get involved?
I don’t think so!
Growing up in a world that bombards our senses with
acts of violence and disrespect makes it easy to become
desensitized; even to the point of feeling we cannot
make a difference. As Director of Education for the
Humane Society of Missouri, I am often asked “How
can you care so much for animals. Aren’t people
more important?” My passion for the welfare of
animals does not diminish my concern for people. Just
the opposite is true. I know that the problems which
affect animals are a direct result of people. It is
therefore necessary to solve these problems by reaching
people. This is where the Humane Society of Missouri
humane educators are called into action!
The Humane Society of Missouri’s Humane Educator
Program began in 1993. Last year our educators reached
over 31,000 children with messages of respect and responsibility
for all living creatures. Their targets are children
but their focus is animals. In a world plagued by violence,
the message is gentle…if you are kind to animals,
you’ll be a better person. It may sound simplistic
but indifference and apathy may be our biggest challenge.
Humane educators begin to turn the tide of detachment
by connecting feelings. A child’s interest in
an animal, any animal, can become a catalyst for change.
Once a child experiences unconditional affection from
an animal, this has the power to spark within the child
concern for the animal’s welfare. It feels good
to care. Doing the right thing has positive effects
and ideally can infiltrate all facets of living. Children
who are taught to be kind to animals become more considerate
in their dealings with others. Becoming children of
broader sympathies enhances the well-being of the child,
the school, the neighborhood and community at large.
These are lofty goals. Our humane educators meet this
challenge with a barrage of talents, creativity and
life experiences. In our fast-paced world of text messaging
and instant gratification, our humane educators are
taking the time to help children connect to the needs
of an animal. In doing so, the eyes of thousands of
children can turn from TV and videos to the needs of
the innocent and voiceless. What a meaningful contribution
to the world we all share!
Wanted:
Humane Educators to Teach Children and Adults Kindness
Toward Animals
The Education Department at the Humane Society of Missouri
is looking for men and women ages 18 to 110 who love
children and animals and want to make life better for
both! Humane education is THE KEY to preventing abuse
and neglect and as a Volunteer Humane Educator, you
would play an important role!
Applicants must be willing to speak in front of groups
and facilitate discussion about animal issues. You must
also be kind, energetic, patient and willing to accept
hugs and poems from small children. Knowledge of responsible
animal care and previous experience making others feel
good about themselves is a plus. No degree required. We
have excellent health benefits but no pay. Additional
training is required. For more information about becoming
a Humane Society of Missouri Volunteer Humane Educator,
please contact Jo Klepacki in the Education Department
(314) 951-1572 joellyn.klepacki@hsmo.org
There are a limited number of positions available.
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