For the past few years Clubhouses across Yellowstone County have been working hard to provide a safe place for youth; one that is not only physically safe but also mentally and emotionally safe.  In the last few weeks of February, Club staff prepared to welcome Baloo, a Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix to the Lockwood crew. Baloo spent the first two years of his life training in multiple classes to become a certified therapy dog.

Baloo’s job is to help Club members relax and calm their bodies when they feel frustrated, sad, angry, or maybe just need some extra love.  Having Baloo also teaches Club members about responsibility.  Typically, Baloo starts his day by greeting the members as they check into Club.  The members’ faces light up as soon as they see him and all of them greet him with a “Hey Baloo” and a nice pat on the head. Once all the members are checked in and settled, Baloo makes his rounds, visiting program areas to see what all is happening in the Lockwood Clubhouse.  During activity time Baloo likes to take a small group of Club members on a walk around the campus. Throughout the day Baloo is available to have one-on-one time with members who need it and at the end of the day, if Baloo isn’t napping, he is at the front desk saying goodbye for the evening.

In a short amount of time, Club members have already responded very positively to Baloo.  One member shared with staff that he thought Baloo would help him with his anger issues while another member brought in a sentimental key chain to attach to Baloo’s collar.   With Baloo’s help the Boys & Girls Clubs of Yellowstone County has a unique opportunity to help youth build strong relationships with themselves and others, regulate their emotional responses to everyday situations, and advance their ability to be positive, productive and contributing members of our community.

The Boys & Girls Clubs is committed to doing Whatever It Takes for our youth.  By expanding programs that build social-emotional skills like incorporating therapy animals into our programs, we can better equip our young people with the social tools they need to successfully navigate the complexities of home, school and work.  If you would like to learn more about our program or if you would like to meet Baloo please call Karrie at 406-294-4511 to schedule a visit.