The Gloucester-Mathews Humane Society offers an assortment of interactive programs to the community, within the walls of the shelter and beyond.

One goal of these interactive programs is to encourage children to be involved since the minimum volunteer age is 16 at the shelter.

“The younger generation wants to be involved,” said Voula Douglerakis-Carrier, humane educator at GMHS.

GMHS welcomes visitors of any age for pet story time every Wednesday at 1 p.m., no registration required. According to Douglerakis-Carrier and Caitlin Donnelly, GMHS communications and development coordinator, this program brings in a lot of preschool-aged children. However, they are looking forward to welcoming older children during the upcoming spring and summer breaks.

Visitors who come for pet story time can look forward to listening to a story read by a GMHS staff member while sitting on soft dog beds. Then visitors take a tour around the Cat Mall, participate in a craft or coloring session an...