Community Education
The Babinski Foundation Animal Shelter is proud to serve both animals and people! Through community education and involvement, we're happy to support the animals and residents of the Brainerd Lakes Area. Learn more about our community education and outreach efforts on this page.
Junior Volunteers
Junior volunteer opportunities at the Babinski Foundation are offered about three times a year. Children have the opportunity to read to shelter dogs, help make treats and toys, socialize with the animals, and participate in other fun activities. Sign up for the Babinski Foundation newsletter to be notified of upcoming junior volunteer events.
K9 Connection
Twice a year, the Babinski Foundation Animal Shelter partners with the Brainerd School District to offer an incredible training program, K9 Connection, pairing students with shelter dogs. This program enriches the lives of both dogs and teens through companionship, responsibility, and care. Students learn from guest speakers and develop valuable skills and confidence. The six-week program culminates in a graduation ceremony celebrating the growth and achievements of the students and their canine partners.
Animal Socialization
Our animal socialization program helps many of our shelter animals become well-socialized before they leave. Dogs, puppies, cats, and kittens participate in socialization trips to senior centers, schools, and other organizations. If your organization would like to help socialize some puppies, please contact us at marketing@babinskifoundation.org to inquire about available times.
Youth Education
The Babinski Foundation provides an annual educational program for all fifth-grade students at the local school. We also regularly welcome classes and children from other organizations and clubs to learn about animal welfare. Participants explore the current state of animal welfare, learn how our shelter operates and contributes to improving animal welfare, and discover the ins and outs of animal care and adoption.
Speaking Opportunities
The Babinski Foundation Animal Shelter is happy to speak about animal care, welfare, and safety whenever given the chance! We're available for presentations through programs like our local Safety Town, in classrooms, and to community clubs. Contact marketing@babinskifoundation.org to schedule a speaker for your group.
Surgery Van
A critical aspect of animal welfare is animal health, including reducing the surplus population of accidental and stray animals through spaying and neutering. Recognizing that veterinary care can be expensive and inaccessible, the Babinski Foundation's surgery van addresses these challenges. Currently in its early stages, the van operates in partnership with Leech Lake Legacy to provide low-cost spay/neuter services and vaccinations to underserved communities.
Community Events
While our mission and work are serious, we always make time for fun and promoting animal adoption and education at local community events. You can often find us at the Crow Wing County Fair, Crosby 4th of July celebration, local restaurants, shops, and other large community events.
If you see us, please stop by to meet our animals, learn more about our organization and animal welfare, and maybe even find a new furry friend!
If you have an upcoming event and would like adoptable animals to attend, please contact marketing@babinskifoundation.org to discuss the possibilities.