Join Project Next Mission

Dutchess County, NY | October 2026

Shelter animals often need consistency, structure, socialization, and positive interaction before they are ready to succeed in a permanent home. Project Next Mission brings together a small group of Dutchess County veterans to help prepare these animals for what comes next.

Veterans bring experience with discipline, adaptability, teamwork, leadership, and working toward a defined mission. Project Next Mission is looking for veterans willing to put their unique strengths to work alongside shelter staff in support of animals preparing for life beyond the shelter. Biweekly sessions will also offer free education with guest speakers across animal welfare, training expertise, and more to add an educational component.

Participants will work directly with shelter animals, support handling, socialization, enrichment, and training activities, and provide feedback throughout the pilot. Every interaction helps build the confidence, behavior, and readiness that can influence an animal’s ability to transition successfully into a permanent home.

Project Next Mission will operate as a small, structured three-month pilot, giving participants the opportunity to contribute directly to the program while also helping shape how it develops moving forward.

The mission is simple: help more animals leave the shelter prepared to succeed in the homes and communities that come next. Whether an animal is adopted immediately or eventually, the work done through Project Next Mission can play a direct role in helping that animal get to their future family.

If you can help us accomplish this mission, we want to hear from you.