Uplifting the lives of at-risk youth and shelter dogs to promote a non-violent society

The Underdog Project is a registered Non-Profit and Public Benefit Organisation working with vulnerable youth and dogs in Cape Town, South Africa.

Founded in 2011 by Jenna Da Silva Pinto, we provide a safe and caring classroom environment where supportive adult role models teach positive interpersonal skills such as empathy, trust and personal accountability through the training of shelter dogs.

At our programmes, at-risk and vulnerable youths participate in therapeutic workshops that provide psycho-social support and functional skills development via the subject of humane education and animal assisted activities (AAI). AAI have been proven to have long term benefits and lasting impact in both educational and therapeutic spaces.

While the youth learn invaluable 21st Century skills the dogs receive much needed mental and physical stimulation meaning our programme is mutually beneficial to two vulnerable groups: positively impacting the lives of at-risk youths, whilst socialising and training shelter dogs to improve their lives in the shelter and increase their chances of adoption.

It has been shown that positive relationships between people and animals can help to promote a non-violent society, reducing domestic violence directed against women and children. Our organisational philosophy is built on the belief that the mistreatment of animals and changing of human behaviour can be addressed best by education and long-term interventions, rather than by once-off or ad-hoc visits or activities.

We know that kindness to animals predicts empathy and kindness to others. We also know that domestic abuse and gang-related violence go hand-in-hand with animal cruelty and our programmes are designed to address this in a gentle, non-invasive way that encourages kind behaviour, positive coping skills and respect for all life.

Programmes

Youth Builder Programme

The Youth Builder Programme is the foundation of The Underdog Project experience. It introduces participants to the core values of empathy, compassion, and prosocial behaviour through a strong focus on humane education. Participants also receive an introduction to dog training, learning basic skills that promote responsibility, patience, and confidence while working with rescue dogs. The programme emphasizes holistic development, helping youth cultivate essential life skills and self-awareness. Upon completion, participants graduate with a solid foundation and have the opportunity to progress into the Past Graduate Programme, continuing their journey with us.

Past Graduate Programme

The Past Graduate Programme provides a supportive space for youth to continue their growth after completing Youth Builder. Participants build on their dog training skills while also developing leadership abilities through introductory leadership modules and practical opportunities to guide others. The programme emphasizes holistic development, combining humane education with 21st-century skills such as goal setting, study skills, and self-management. It also serves as a pool for selecting Peer Leaders, offering participants the chance to apply their skills in real-world leadership opportunities and prepare for their next stage of growth.

Peer Leader Programme

The Peer Leader Programme prepares participants for life beyond school by equipping them with the essential skills to thrive in society and the workforce. Peer Leaders attend sessions as mentors to younger and newer participants, guiding them through dog training, life skills, and humane education. Designed for youth who have demonstrated responsibility, commitment, and leadership potential, this programme focuses on personal development, 21st-century skills, and community impact. By bridging the gap between school and further studies or employment, Peer Leaders gain practical tools and opportunities to become confident, capable leaders and active contributors in their communities.

Therapeutic Interventions

Our Therapeutic Interventions programme mirrors the Youth Builder experience but is tailored for youth referred by school counsellors or behavioural centres. The programme runs for 8 to 12 weeks, with goal-oriented sessions designed to provide targeted support. Detailed reporting is completed after each session to track progress and outcomes. Participants engage in humane education, empathy development, and introductory dog training, all within a safe, structured, and nurturing environment. This programme helps youth build resilience, achieve specific developmental objectives, and grow in a supportive space.

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