MSU students ask community to Pause for Paws

Pause for Paws, an animal therapy and shelter awareness event, hosted by Minot State University students from Honors 391 class, “Community Problem Solving,” will be April 5 on the Old Main lawn from 1 to 5 p.m. Community members are welcome to play with cats and dogs as well as learn more about the Souris Valley Animal Shelter.

“We researched community problems and learned how to coordinate a charity event from beginning to end,” said Nina Coster, a student in Honors 391. “Most importantly though, this class taught us how to become better people by giving back.” 

The community problem solving course is a seminar in civic engagement; the students work with community leaders and agencies to identify problems and formulate solutions to real-life community challenges. A goal is to make a long-term positive impact toward this problem.

This year, the class is focusing on the Souris Valley Animal Shelter, hoping to raise awareness of its need for supplies and volunteers.

“The Souris Valley Animal Shelter is guided by the principle of ‘caring for the world around us by caring for the animals under our care,’” Coster said. “Caring for animals is no easy feat, and too few people in Minot know about the Souris Valley Animal Shelter, and even fewer understand the costs and challenges it faces.”

All parts of the event are free and open to the public. However, donations in the form of pet food, toys, and money are appreciated and will be accepted throughout the event. Adoption information will also be available. In case of inclement weather, the event will be held in the Student Center Atrium.

For questions, contact Coster at nina.coster@my.minotstateu.edu or Jessica Smestad, advisor, at jessica.smestad@minotstateu.edu.

About Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university dedicated to excellence in education, scholarship, and community engagement achieved through rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, commitment to public service, and a vibrant campus life.

Published: 03/11/16   


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