LOCAL GIRL SCOUTS TAKE PART IN ‘PAWS FOR PRIDE IN READING’ TO IMPROVE CONFIDENCE

Tamaqua Girl Scout Victoria Carrell of McAdoo combined her love of dogs and literature during her Gold Award project, titled ‘Paws For Pride in Reading’, held recently at the Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tamaqua.
During the event, girl scouts were given the chance to read to therapy dogs, as well as enjoy numerous dog-themed activities and snacks.
“Kids are sometimes afraid to read to other people,” said Carrell, who added she is also nervous when speaking in public. “Reading to dogs is easier and helps improve their confidence.”
Participating in the program were Lydia Latella, with Ekko (an 8-year-old male German Shepherd), and Eileen Drummond with Michka (a 2.5-year-old female Saluki) of Therapy Dog International.
“Planning and organizing represented the hardest challenge,” Carrell added. Her parents Cathy and Rich Carrell said she spent weeks gathering supplies and such in preparation for the event.
Carrell stated her appreciation to various people and organizations that provided support during the program, to include Therapy Dog International, scout leaders, family, Highlights magazine, UpStart, Boyers Food Market and others.