Become a Reading Buddy: A Heartwarming Volunteer Opportunity for Kids
If you're looking for a meaningful and educational way to get your kids involved in the community, the Reading Buddies program at the Humane Society of Charlotte is a hidden gem worth checking out.
My kids and I recently joined this program, and it's been a beautiful blend of literacy, compassion, and animal care, all in one. What drew me in initially was the fact that it’s one of the few volunteer opportunities in Charlotte that welcomes children. And as it turns out, it’s not just educational. It’s rewarding for the heart, too.
To get started, there's a one-time fee that covers a short training session on how to safely interact with the animals. After orientation, volunteers can visit any time during regular hours and stay as long as they like. Keep track of your visits, and participants even have the chance to earn a small prize!
There are two cat rooms where the cats roam freely, plus the Cat Cafe (which includes a single cat, ready for cuddles). My kids love settling in to read with a furry friend curled up beside them, or playing fetch with a surprisingly energetic kitty! For safety purposes, the dogs are housed separately behind glass doors. While visitors can't pet the dogs, they can see and hear the readers, and it clearly lifts their spirits to have someone stop by with a friendly face and a story.
Weekdays tend to be quieter, which makes them an especially good time to visit if you’re a homeschooling family with a flexible schedule. It’s a small but impactful way to give back and bring joy to animals who are still waiting for their forever homes.
Bring your own books from home or borrow one from the Humane Society’s cart. Although the program isn’t homeschool-specific, it’s ideal for homeschoolers to blend reading fluency, empathy, responsibility, and community engagement in a way that feels natural. The Humane Society also offers group field trips for a fee if you’re part of a local co-op or support group, which delivers an exciting behind-the-scenes look for any animal lover, no matter the age.
If you’re looking for a kid-friendly volunteer opportunity, it can be a joyful addition to your homeschool routine.
✨ Want to learn more or plan a visit? Check out the Humane Society of Charlotte’s website for details about the Reading Buddies program and training sessions.
📦 And if your family or homeschool group wants to go a step further, anyone, Reading Buddies or not, can visit the “DIY Service Projects” section of their website to find a list of supplies you can make or donate to help an animal in need.
Take a look at our experience in the Cat Room earlier this summer for a sneak peak of the program.
📅 Don’t forget to browse our Field Trips Guide and Events Calendar for even more unique local opportunities for homeschool families!
