Outreach and Education
Humane Education Programs at SVACA
SVACA educates hundreds of students annually with interactive, engaging programs. From learning to care for animals to staying safe around strays, our programs are tailored for schools, scouts, and local organizations. Please note some of these programs are dependent upon our animal population. See the current animals in our care here. See our location here.
Kiddies 2 Kitties Reading Program
Students aged 6-12 can read to adoptable cats at our Animal Care Center, providing enrichment for the cats and a fun activity for kids.
Details:
- When: Wednesdays, 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
- Registration required: Limited spots available. Registration is free. Register Here
- Groups larger than 8 (including siblings): Contact francesca@svaca.com
- Books not provided
- Parents will need to accompany children into rooms and remain with them for the entirety of the program
- Please note: this program is dependent upon our current animal population
Field Trips to SVACA
Bring your class to SVACA for a fun and educational experience!
Schedule:
- 10-minute presentation about SVACA and animal care/interactions
- 10-minute tour of the facility
- 25-minute animal socialization
- Optional: Time for a craft activity, like making DIY cat toys
Details:
- Max group size: 20 kids
- Ratio: 1 adult per 3-4 kids
- Availability: Tuesday-Saturday, 12:00 PM - 3:30 PM
- To book, email francesca@svaca.com
School Visits
Let us bring the learning to you!
What We Offer:
- Presentation about SVACA’s mission and work
- Optional: Students can make DIY cat toys or blankets, or donate items from our Amazon Wishlist (not required)
Details:
- Availability: Tuesday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
- To book, email francesca@svaca.com
Scout Program - Closed for 2025
This program is booked for 2025. We welcome Girl Scout, Boy Scout, and Cub Scout troops to earn their animal badge at SVACA!
Program Highlights:
- Tour of our shelter
- 30-minute animal socialization session
- Service opportunities: Make cat toys or raise funds for our Animal Assistance Program prior to visit
Details:
- Max group size: 15 kids (including siblings), all kids (including siblings) must be at least 6 years old to interact with animals.
- Ratio: 1 adult per 3 kids; adults must accompany kids in animal rooms
- Availability: Tuesday-Saturday, 12:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Birthday Parties
Celebrate your child’s special day with kittens at SVACA!
What’s Included:
- Introduction to SVACA and animal care
- Parents can choose to bring supplies for a craft activity or games
- One hour of hands-on kitten playtime
Details:
- Ages: 6+
- Duration: 2 hours (flexible start time)
- Days: Tuesday-Saturday, 12 pm - 2:30 pm start time
- Donation: $300 donation
- Group size: 15-20 kids (including siblings) (varies by season and animal population)
- Food: You may bring your own food, drinks, and dessert (no kitchen facilities available)
- Decorations: You may arrive 30 minutes early to decorate and set up; no wall damage (blue tape okay)
- Release Forms: Required for all children (will be emailed in advance)
Availability for birthday parties is dependent on our current animal population. To book, email francesca@svaca.com.
Please note: SVACA is the municipal Animal Care Center for Santa Clara, Mountain View, Monte Sereno, Campbell, and the Town of Los Gatos. We are not affiliated with the Humane Society Silicon Valley. Learn more about us and our work here.