Jack is a 12-year old Golden Retriever mix who moved from Kansas City to Maui in 2006.  Although blind, Jack still enjoys playing with children, going on walks with his pal "Popeye" (the seeing eye cat), wading in tidal pools, cruising and hanging out at the beach.  Most of all, Jack loves to spend time at Hui Malama Learning Center.  He enjoys listening to the many stories that the students read to him and encourages all of the students to keep up the good work!

Research with animals indicates that children with low self-esteem are often more willing to interact with an animal than another person. Even more, they are inclined to forget about their limitations. Children involved in "reading to animals" programs nationwide have shown: 

• Improved reading skills
• A sense of pride in their accomplishments
• Willingness to become involved in other positive activities
• More respect and kindness in their interaction with animals
• Found reading more enjoyable
• Check out more books from the library

Jack can be reached at jack@mauihui.org.