The New Year forecast calls for an increased demand for Therapy Dogs. The therapeutic benefits of using therapy dogs have been proven through scientific studies and observed on a regular basis by those who visit with their therapy dogs. Last year, Bright Spot Therapy Dogs was invited to speak at 14 outreach events throughout western Massachusetts and asked to make two appearances on WWLP Ch. 22 Mass Appeal, and one on ABC Ch40 News. Our increased presence throughout the immediate area and beyond, resulted in a 48% increase in the number of donations made in support of the meaningful work our Bright Spot Therapy Dog Teams perform every day throughout the year. These funds enable us to continue as a no-fee-for-service organization and to keep our fees to member low.
Using 2012 as our barometer, Bright Spot is working on several initiatives to meet the demand for therapy dog visitors in a wide variety of healthcare and educational facilities. We hope to expand our Reading Buddies Program to other area elementary schools as we continue to work with the children in grades pre-k through 5 at the Westhampton Elementary School. We will be revamping our training for new volunteers to ensure that all teams are armed with the skills and techniques they need to employ while visiting as a certified Bright Spot therapy dog team. Last year, Bright Spot added 34 new therapy dog teams. Now in our 9th year, Bright Spot Therapy Dogs has high hopes to bring that number even higher over the course of 2013 bringing comfort to those who need it most.