K9 4 KIDS | At-Risk Youth Program with Rescue Dogs in San Martin, CA
Empowering Youth Through Canine Connections
At K9 4 KIDS, we partner with Embark Behavioral Health, a leading network of mental health treatment programs for preteens, teens, and young adults, to bring our transformative program to youth facing significant emotional and behavioral challenges. Embark specializes in helping individuals aged 12-28 who struggle with anxiety, depression, self-harm, substance use, and other mental health issues. Through this collaboration, we identify young people who can benefit most from the healing power of human-canine connections.
A Sanctuary for Healing and Growth
We welcome these youth into a safe, nurturing environment where they are paired with dogs rescued from local shelters. Many of these dogs have faced hardship themselves, creating a profound bond of empathy and understanding. Together, the youth and their canine partners embark on a journey of mutual healing and hope.
Under the guidance of experienced trainers and mentors, youth participants learn valuable skills, including:
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Feeding and Grooming — encouraging responsibility and compassion
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Basic Obedience Training — practicing patience, communication, and positive reinforcement
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Play and Exercise — building trust and promoting physical activity through fun, shared experiences
Transformative Outcomes for Youth
The benefits of this program are profound. Participants develop:
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Increased Self-Esteem: Mastering new skills and witnessing the positive impact they have on their dogs.
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Improved Emotional Regulation: Finding stability and comfort in the unconditional love of their canine partners.
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Enhanced Social Skills: Learning to interact effectively with both animals and people.
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A Sense of Purpose: Knowing they are making a difference in the lives of these deserving animals.
Why This Matters for Our Community
Mental health challenges among youth continue to rise, with anxiety, depression, and self-harm affecting too many young lives. The K94Kids At-Risk Youth Program provides a powerful, evidence-based approach that helps these young individuals build resilience, confidence, and lasting joy.
How You Can Help Support This Program
Your support makes this work possible. Donations help us provide the food, training, resources, and safe environment needed for both the youth and their canine companions to thrive.
Donate today and be part of changing lives — not just for dogs, but for the next generation of youth in San Martin and Santa Clara County.
Contact us here to learn more or to get involved. Together, we can create a brighter, more hopeful future.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our At-Risk Youth Program
Q1: Who can participate in the K94Kids At-Risk Youth Program?
Our program welcomes preteens, teens, and young adults ages 12–28 who are experiencing emotional or behavioral challenges and could benefit from working with rescue dogs.
Q2: Is there a waitlist to join the youth program?
Yes, there is sometimes a waitlist depending on current enrollment. Please contact us for the most up-to-date availability.
Q3: How much does it cost to enroll in the program?
Thanks to generous donations, participation is free for qualifying youth, with all training and materials provided by K94Kids and our partners.