Supporting Youth

Bear PAWS: Where food, fun, and friendship come together to nurture the leaders of tomorrow.
Explore Our Program

Supporting Austin Middle School Students

Bear PAWS is an after-school program that strives to provide a safe, welcoming space where young people can thrive through food, fun, and friendship.

Who We Serve

We serve Austin Middle School students, many of whom face economic, academic, or social challenges.

Our Approach

We offer nourishment, character development, and leadership training in a supportive environment.

Our Impact

Since our beginning in 2022,we've grown from serving 12 students to enrolling over 75 students in 2024. We continue to grow weekly!
Learn More About Our offerings

What we Offer

Nourishment

We provide popular meals from favorite local restaurants.

Character Development

We build strong foundations for character through perseverance, integrity, and compassion.

Social Skills Development

We foster effective communication, empathy, and collaboration, helping the students create meaningful connections with their peers.

Leadership Development

We equip teens with the skills to inspire others, make confident decisions, and lead with integrity in their schools and communities.

Spiritual Development

We teach spiritual disciplines that prepares students to enter high school as Christ followers.
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Our Progress

Since our inception in 2022, Bear PAWS has made a significant impact on the lives of Austin Middle School students. Here's a glimpse of our progress and the positive changes we've fostered:
75

Students Enrolled

67

Average Weekly Attendance

100%

Happy Students

16

Volunteers

Success Story

"Bear PAWS has great food! I like that we have Dr.Peppers and cookies too. When I first came to Bear PAWS, I was shy and had no friends. Now I have a lot of buddies and a best friend. All the volunteers are so nice. I feel special."
- Loki H, Bear PAWS Participant

Success Story

"My granddaughter is in the program. It gives me a chance to see her each week being involved in something other than sports. I have seen her thrive in the program."
- Liz Mozola, Volunteer

A message from the Executive Director

"Bear PAWS is a dynamic program! Every middle school student needs this experience."
- Darlene Martin, Executive Director
Join Us In Making A Difference

Make a Difference: Volunteer with Bear PAWS

Your time and skills can change a young person's life. Join our team of dedicated volunteers and help shape the future of Austin Middle School students. We meet together every Tuesday 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Our Organization
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© 2024 Amarillo Bear PAWS, Inc. All rights reserved.
Amarillo Bear Paws, Inc is an Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3) tax-exempt code #99-1726031 as determined by the Department of the Treasury, Internal Revenue Service, and the State of Texas.