Beckie and Stormy have been volunteering as the Reading with a Therapy Dog team at Willow Branch Library since September 2024. Stormy is a 7-year-old English black Labrador and was adopted by Beckie in 2022. Countless children have practiced their literacy skills while reading to this dynamic duo. As a special treat, they are given a coloring sheet of Stormy. In addition to the Library, they volunteer at St Vincent's Hospital, a rehab facility, Amazon, and Ortega Gardens Memory Care. Beckie also enjoys crocheting and spending time with her family. Stormy's favorite treats are peanut butter and watermelon (not together) and is a local celebrity, as she is often recognized in the community by families who bring their children to read to her at Willow Branch.
What inspired you to volunteer for the library?
Stormy has such a gentle and sweet spirit about her. She loves children and I thought that the library would be a perfect place for her to visit.
What is the most rewarding part about volunteering for the library?
Seeing how the children read to Stormy and how amazed I am at some of the little kids reading so well with their parents. I am impressed with the parents who work with their children to read so well and with the way the children pet Stormy. Of course, we can’t forget the smiles it puts on everyone’s faces.
What was your favorite experience you’ve had at one of the sessions?
One of the most favorite experiences was a young child about three years old who was very afraid of dogs. His mother and I were sitting on the floor and she was reading to her child and all of a sudden the little child started petting Stormy and leaning on her. The mom was so impressed. She took pictures to send to her husband because she couldn’t believe how her child lost all fear with Stormy.
What is Stormy’s favorite thing to do?
Stormy‘s favorite thing is when I tell her it’s time to go to work. She gets so excited she knows just what to do when we get to the library. She lays on her bed and sometimes even rolls over for her tummy to be rubbed. She loves children; she loves all people. She’s just one in 1 million.
