Dogs Help Youth See Themselves In A Fresh Way

Teenagers are learning responsibility and increasing self-confidence in-a 4-H program where they teach Seeing Eye dogs. 

More than 70 4-H clubs in Nj and the nearby area are teaching 800 dogs in a unique partnership with The Seeing Eye-an organization that increases the independence of blind people close window . In keeping with the 4-H history of youth leadership, the young adults, not their parents, are in charge of the dogs. 

The childhood socialize them with people, show the dogs simple obedience, and present them to circumstances they may experience as Seeing Eye dogs. 

Seventeen-year-old Esther Middlekauff, president of the Ocean County 4-H Club in New Jersey, is raising her sixth dog for the program. She leads the team members in activities and serves as a coach for kids that are maybe not familiar with the responsibility necessary for working with these particular dogs. 

"Training can be hard," she persistence", "but it helps us all build character and said. 

Dealing with the dogs also can help give youth a feeling of purpose. Ezekiel Gonzalez, a citizen at the Nj Juvenile Justice Commission's Fresh Start group house, had few chances to show his true potential. That all changed when he met Spock. 

Spock is just a 1-year-old Labrador retriever that Ezekiel, 18, and another youth at the home are supporting foster for the Ocean County 4-H Club. Ezekiel is learning many personal lessons working together with your dog. "Spock shows me how to be patient," he said. "He appears to me for support and to keep him safe." 

"For these kids to take care of some thing of their own gives them hope. Spock is a very useful addition to both our citizens and staff," mentioned Michael Dindak, Fresh Start superintendent. 

The 4-Hers recognize the value of their work, although it might be difficult. "Sometimes the best thing is difficult to do," said Esther compare youth leadership . "But I am aware that that's their job" and my dog can help someone. 

4-H can be a community of young people across America learning authority, citizenship and life skills.