Seasonal Educational Programs & Experiences
Wayside Waifs’ Humane Education team strives to create educational opportunities for everyone in our community. We want to provide a variety of educational programming to engage as many people as possible in our mission to practice kindness and compassion for all animals. With those goals in mind, the seasonal programs below are for adults, children, and families alike! Registration is required for all of these events and space may be limited. These programs change regularly so check back often for new program opportunities.
Family Trivia Night
January 29, 2026 | 5:30pm – 7pm | On-site | Adults & children in kindergarten or older
Join us for a fun, educational trivia night, designed for families. Through interactive questions and friendly competition, participants put their knowledge about animal care, responsible pet ownership, and the many ways Wayside serves the community to the test! Trivia night combines entertainment with education to help families connect over compassion and responsibility for animals. Children attending must be currently in kindergarten or older. Registration is required.
The Waif Pack
February 4, 11, 18, & 25 | 4:30pm – 7pm | On-site | Grades 6-8 | 4 sessions
Join us for a brand-new opportunity at Wayside Waifs! The Waif Pack is a four-week program for students in grades 6-8. Students will meet at Wayside Waifs once a week and participate in various animal-themed activities, from learning all about dog and cat body language, completing volunteer activities, to even working together to solve real-world challenges at the shelter. Registration is required. Drop-off is between 4:30-5pm and pick-up is between 6:30-7pm.
Valentine’s Day Treat Decorating
February 12, 2026 | 5:30pm – 6:30pm | On-site | Adults and children currently in kindergarten or older |
To celebrate Valentine’s Day and our love for shelter pets, join us at Wayside Waifs to make Valentine’s treats for the pets in our care. We will make treats and take a short tour of the shelter. Registration is required. Children attending must currently be in kindergarten or older.
Paws & Paint
March 4, 2026 | 5pm – 6:30pm | On-site | Adults and children currently in kindergarten or older |
What is your vision for a kinder world? Join us as we learn how Wayside Waifs helps animals and the people who love them. Then, we’ll discover Wayisde’s historical 1940’s sign and get artsy! You’ll create and paint your own sign representing your very own unique animal shelter! No art experience needed. Registration is required. Children attending must currently be in kindergarten or older.
Virtual Enrichment 101 Seminar
March 31, 2026 | 6:45pm – 7:30pm | All ages |
Are you looking to enrich your pet’s life, reduce anxiety, exercise their brain and body, and prevent boredom? The VIRTUAL Enrichment 101 Seminar, hosted by Wayside Waifs animal shelter, is perfect for you. Led by a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and a Humane Educator, we’ll be discussing why and how we can implement enrichment without breaking the bank. Registration is required. Once you’ve registered, we’ll send you a link to the Zoom call!
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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