October 06, 2025 | Stories
This summer, Wichita youth discovered that caring for animals can also mean building a future. With support from the Alice White Fund for Dogs and Cats at the Wichita Foundation (WF), the Wichita Animal Action League (WAAL) hosted a free, three-day camp that opened doors to careers in animal care for children from some of our city’s lowest-income neighborhoods.
The idea for the camp took root during one of WAAL’s mobile clinics. A young boy, captivated by the veterinarians at work, was encouraged to imagine himself in that role one day. His reply stopped everyone in their tracks: “I can’t do that because I’m poor.”
That moment inspired an opportunity.
"It became clear through our daily outreach that a lot of kids don’t have the same access to see how animal-related careers work,” said WAAL Executive Director, Christy Fischer. “If their families can’t afford grooming or veterinary services, these opportunities just don’t exist for them.”
Thanks to the Alice White Fund for Dogs and Cats at WF, WAAL tripled the number of campers this year and expanded what the camp could offer.
Fourteen campers, ages 6 to 13, explored paths ranging from veterinarians and vet nurses to equine dentists, farriers, zookeepers, and wildlife rehabilitators. They gained hands-on exposure through partnerships with PetSmart Charities, Dear Neighbor Ministries, Wichita Pet Wellness, Tanganyika Wildlife Park, and Hope in the Valley Equine Rescue & Sanctuary. Children also learned about responsible pet ownership.
“Compassion knows no species,” said Fischer. “If we can teach that at a young age, it changes everything.”
Looking ahead, WAAL hopes to bring this opportunity to even more kids across Wichita.
“Because of camp, I hope these kids will have the courage to continue asking the question of why,” said Fischer. “The generosity of the Alice White Fund for Dogs and Cats at the Wichita Foundation made this possible, and we’re grateful.”
