From struggling with anxiety and social connection to thriving in a job he loves, Hayden’s journey shows the power of tailored support.
Hayden’s Story
I’ve always loved animals. They’re calm and don’t expect too much. You can just be yourself around them. That’s not something I often felt growing up.
I’ve had anxiety, OCD, and autism for as long as I can remember. Things like school, meeting new people, or even leaving the house were incredibly hard for me. I used to think maybe I just didn’t fit anywhere. Then we found Happy Paws Happy Hearts.
At first, I joined their In-Shelter Program. Right away, it felt different. Small groups, a calm routine, and animals to care for. It helped me feel safe. I wasn’t being pushed to be someone I wasn’t or to do stuff I wasn’t ready for. Slowly, I started to talk more, join in more.
After a while, I was invited to join the Explore Program – and that’s where things really started to change. We learned real-life skills like goal-setting, communicating at work, and what to expect in the workplace. I had a Case Manager who supported me every step of the way. It didn’t feel scary anymore. It felt doable.
Then came my work placement at a local aquarium. I was nervous – really nervous – but I remembered what I’d learned. I showed up, did my best and slowly settled in. At the end of my ten-week placement, they offered me a permanent position which I undertook for a while and now enjoy a casual position while I take on new challenges.
I love doing something that means something to me. Every shift, I get to care for the fish, help visitors that come into the store and, be part of a team that are so understanding, welcoming, and supporting. I never thought that this would be my reality and now it is.
About Happy Paws Happy Hearts
Happy Paws Happy Hearts (HPHH) exists to create positive connections between young people experiencing social isolation — including those living with disability, mental health challenges, or processing trauma — with rescue animals in safe, supportive environments. Their focus is to help participants on their journey of change from social isolation to social inclusion and wellbeing.
Through hands-on programs delivered in animal shelters, HPHH helps participants build social confidence, develop real-world skills, and re-engage with education, volunteering, or employment pathways. The In-Shelter Program offers a gentle introduction to teamwork and responsibility through animal care, while the Explore Program provides employment readiness training, case management, and structured work placements.
For young people like Hayden, HPHH offers more than just skills training — it provides a place to grow, connect, and step into a future that once felt out of reach.
