About Project Second Chance Monroe
Project Second Chance Monroe was founded in fall 2008 by program director Marji McIntyre. Pairing troubled youth with abandoned dogs, their work together gives them a second chance in life. The dogs are housed for three weeks in PSC kennels where they are cared for, groomed and trained by the youth participants.
During twice-weekly discussions, the at-risk youth meet with a therapist where messages of responsibility, compassion, accountability, commitment and hope are encouraged and communicated through counseling and the dynamics of their hands-on work with the dogs.
Each session concludes with a graduation ceremony. The youth receive a certificate of participation and community service hours. The dogs are adopted into their forever homes, some as companion animals with American veterans.
For those students who are interested, a program to study a career path in the pet industry is available. On-line instruction and training from local professionals can result in certification in their area of interest.