Young visitors at the Allen County Public Library in Fort Wayne, Indiana, can join free workshops to craft toys for animals waiting for homes at Humane Fort Wayne. These “Toys for Tails” events run through December 2025 and teach kids about kindness while helping shelter pets stay happy and active.
Event Schedule and Locations
The library has set up several sessions across its branches to make it easy for families to join. Each workshop lasts about an hour and focuses on simple crafts that kids can complete with guidance.
Here is the full list of dates and places:
- December 9, 4 to 4:45 p.m. at the Dupont Branch
- December 13, 2 to 3 p.m. at the Main Library
- December 13, 2 to 3 p.m. at the Georgetown Branch
- December 31, 2 to 3 p.m. at the Aboite Branch
These spots are chosen to reach different parts of Allen County. Families should check the library website for pre registration details to secure a spot, as space might fill up quickly during the holiday season.
No supplies are needed from home, since the library provides everything. This setup lets children dive right into the fun without any hassle.
Why These Toys Matter for Shelter Animals
Shelter pets often face long waits for adoption, and handmade toys can make a big difference in their daily lives. Experts say enrichment items like these help reduce stress and boredom for dogs and cats in kennels.
For example, a simple braided rope or stuffed sock can encourage play and mental stimulation. This not only keeps the animals healthier but also makes them more appealing to potential adopters who see lively, engaged pets.
Beth Boatright, the library’s director of community partnerships and programs, shared that these workshops show kids the impact of small actions. She noted that every toy created brings joy to an animal in need and builds pride in young participants.
Recent studies from animal welfare groups highlight that shelters with active enrichment programs see higher adoption rates. In Fort Wayne, Humane Fort Wayne cares for hundreds of animals each year, and community efforts like this ease the burden on staff.
Adding to this, similar programs in other cities have led to fewer returns of adopted pets because the animals arrive better adjusted.
Community Benefits and How to Get Involved
Events like Toys for Tails strengthen ties between the library, the shelter, and local families. They promote education on animal care and encourage lifelong habits of giving back.
Parents have praised past library activities for blending learning with real world help. One Fort Wayne mom said her child learned about empathy while making toys last year, sparking interest in volunteering.
| Ways to Support Humane Fort Wayne Beyond Toys | Description |
|---|---|
| Donate Supplies | Items like blankets, food, and cleaning products are always welcome. |
| Volunteer Time | Help with walking dogs or socializing cats on weekends. |
| Adopt or Foster | Take home a pet or provide temporary care to free up shelter space. |
| Spread Awareness | Share shelter stories on social media to boost adoptions. |
These options give more ways for people of all ages to contribute. The library often partners with groups like this to host free community events, tying into broader efforts in Allen County.
With the holidays approaching, this initiative aligns with seasonal giving trends. Local news reports show increased donations to animal causes in winter, when shelters see more strays due to cold weather.
Looking Ahead to More Kindness Initiatives
The library plans to expand such programs in 2026, based on feedback from these workshops. Ideas include story times with shelter animals or art contests focused on pet themes.
This fits into a growing movement where public spaces like libraries serve as hubs for community service. In Indiana, similar efforts have drawn thousands of participants, leading to measurable improvements in animal welfare.
For now, families can mark their calendars for the remaining December dates. It’s a chance to create lasting memories while making a positive change.
What do you think about these community events? Share your thoughts in the comments or pass this story along to friends who love animals. Your input could inspire even more local kindness.
