Family Nights at Wayside Waifs
Wayside Waifs’ Humane Education team strives to create educational opportunities for everyone in our community and engage with people of all ages in our mission to practice kindness and compassion for all. With those goals in mind, Family Nights at Wayside are for adults, children, and families alike! Registration is required for all of these events and space may be limited. These events change regularly so check back often for new program opportunities.
While there is no set fee for our programming, we do ask that you consider making a donation. Your contributions allow us to continue these educational efforts.
Paws & Pencils
September 25, 2026 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | On-site | Adults & children in kindergarten or older
Join us on September 25 from 6-7:30pm for an evening of drawing at Wayside Waifs! At Paws & Pencils, participants will go on a tour of our facility, followed by the opportunity to sit outside of a dog or cat’s kennel and draw them. You may donate your drawings to display on the animal’s kennel or take them home as a keepsake! Visit also includes meeting one of our Certified Companion Dogs. Registration is required.
Family Trivia Night
October 21, 2026 | 5:30pm – 7:00pm | On-site | Adults and children in kindergarten or older
Join us for a paws-itively fun family trivia night on October 21 from 5:30-7pm! Put your knowledge to the test with interactive questions all about animal care, responsible pet ownership, and the many ways Wayside helps our community. With friendly competition and plenty of laughs, it’s the perfect way for families to learn, play, and bond over their love for animals. Registration is required.
Virtual Craft Night for Pets
November 17, 2026 | 6:00pm – 6:45pm | Virtual | Adults and children in kindergarten or older
Calling all DIY enthusiasts! On November 17 from 6-6:45pm, join us for Virtual Craft Night for Pets, where participants will follow along with our shelter Educator as she shows you how to make enrichment for animals using items found in your household! You may donate your DIY enrichment projects to the animals at Wayside or keep them for your pets at home- the choice is yours. You’ll receive the enrichment supply list ahead of the event, so you’ll be prepared to follow along. Registration is required.
Shelter Helpers Night
December 22, 2026 | 5:30pm – 7:00pm | On-Site | Adults & children in kindergarten or older
Paws and give back this holiday season! On December 22 from 5:30-7pm, you can make a major difference in the lives of animals by helping us prep kennel supplies, pass out treats, and read stories to the animals. Please note that most of these service projects do not involve direct animal contact. However, once we’re done volunteering, we will celebrate with a tour of Dog and Cat Adoptions! Help us bring comfort and joy to shelter pets this holiday season and sign up today! Registration is required.
Wayside Waifs
3901 Martha Truman Road
Kansas City, MO 64137
816-761-8151
Adoption Hours:
Mon.: Closed
Tues.- Fri.: 11am - 7pm
Sat. & Sun.: 10am - 5pm
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