Junior Alina Swartz is motivated to have an impact on people’s lives by collaborating with the National Education for Assistance Dog Services (NEADS) organization to help advocate for people who need service dogs.
The NEADS establishment was started in Princeton, Massachusetts with the purpose of raising money and awareness as well as training dogs to become service dogs, which will greatly impact many lives. Swartz got the idea to bring this program to Algonquin in 2023, and she strives to host events and fundraisers to support the cause.
“Hopefully the club will create fundraising that will get the school involved with the NEADS organization and their cause,” Swartz said.
As the founder and president of the club, Swartz manages NEADS with the help of adviser and guidance counselor Pam Mackey. Swartz gives back to the organization and creates a fun space for all members.
“For a new club it has been getting a good amount of interest,” Swartz said.
Planning meetings, brainstorming, organizing and reaching out to different people has recently taken up much of her time. This position also led her to improve important skills as well.
“[NEADS] has made me a better communicator, leader and organizer from this leadership experience,” Swartz said.
This new club supports a unique mission and is currently the only club at Algonquin involving service dogs. This year they have come up with fun events and other ideas like dog clothes and calendars to raise money for the club.
“I’m excited for events with the club because it will help create social connections with people outside of Algonquin and the events will be enjoyed by many,” Swartz said.
Swartz has loved dogs since a young age, having two dogs of her own: a Yellow Lab, Lucy, and a Golden Retriever, Skyler. Swartz was first introduced to the NEADS program when she was in elementary school, where there was an affectionate and talented dog that worked at the school.
“The dog could do so many cool tricks like getting things for students, and just overall being a caring animal,” Swartz said.
Swartz’s mother is a social worker who works with students with behavioral issues at Hopedale Elementary School. They worked to train their own dogs to become therapy dogs, and the kids enjoyed having these furry friends and created connections with them in school.
“I remember my mom spending a lot of time with her practicing the skills they learned in class,” Swartz said. “Skyler has always been super good with people but she needed to improve loose leash walking and sitting or laying down for long periods of time.”
Junior and NEADS Vice President Arabella Parry-George believes people need equal opportunities, and pets, especially dogs, are able to help with physical and mental accommodations. She also has a dog at home and knows that having a dog’s company is very comforting. Parry-George is excited about this topic and is invested in activities involving the club.
“I am vice president because a leader of a club should be enthusiastic about it, and many of us are all close friends and connected, making it easier to lead people I’m comfortable with,” Parry-George said.
Swartz hopes that the club’s momentum will continue to build and reach its goal.
“I am very proud,” Swartz said. “It has been a good amount of work and effort but I think the club will continue to succeed.”
