Freehold-Based Nonprofit Organizes Literacy Event For Local Girl Scouts

FREEHOLD, NJ — A local nonprofit is giving back to the community with programming designed to encourage confidence in literacy with young readers.

On Feb. 13, Adopt-A-Pet, Inc., based in Freehold, hosted a special literacy evening where local Girl Scouts were invited to read aloud to certified therapy dogs in a relaxed and welcoming setting.

Sponsored by Enchanted Paws Training, the free event featured therapy dogs from Bright & Beautiful Therapy Dogs (also known as “The Furry Angels”).

The program combined literacy, animal companionship, and volunteerism into one memorable evening, where Girl Scouts arrived with their troop, dressed in pajamas and carrying their favorite books and blankets.

After settling in alongside the therapy dogs and their handlers, the girls took turns reading stories aloud to their new furry friends.

According to event organizers, the presence of the dogs aimed to create a supportive, low-pressure environment that encouraged confidence and enjoyment for the Girl Scouts.

“The dogs provide a non-judgmental audience,” said Sharon Gaboff, organizer and owner of Adopt-A-Pet, Inc.

“For many children, reading to a dog feels less intimidating than reading aloud in a classroom,” Gaboff continued. “It helps build confidence while keeping the experience fun and stress-free. The kids love it, which is why we continue hosting it year after year.”

Between reading sessions, the scouts socialized with the dogs, asked handlers questions about animal care, and enjoyed pizza, popcorn and juice boxes that were provided during the event.

Adding another layer of community involvement, local high school students also volunteered throughout the evening, assisting with setup, guiding groups, and supporting the non-profit’s regular volunteer staff.

While many of the teens earned community service hours, organizers noted that their enthusiasm to participate in the event reflected “a genuine commitment to giving back.”

“It’s meaningful to see different age groups come together,” one volunteer coordinator said. “You have younger children building confidence, teens contributing their time, and therapy dogs doing what they do best, spreading comfort and joy.”

As the evening concluded, scouts packed up their books and blankets, with many stopping for one last hug or photo with their furry reading partners, organizers said.

Adopt-A-Pet regularly hosts outreach programs designed to strengthen the bond between people and animals while serving the local community.

“This was another successful reminder that sometimes the simplest ideas create the most powerful connections,” organizers said. “The joy these events bring to the community is immeasurable.”

Going forward, organizers say they look forward to continuing programs that uplift both people and pets for years to come.

For more information about Adopt-A-Pet, Inc., upcoming events, or adoption opportunities, you can visit their website.