Animal-assisted activities offer unique and effective solutions to the challenges of stress, burnout, mental health, leadership development, and retention within impact organizations.
By integrating these interventions into organizational wellness programs, initiatives like Pawsitive Leaders can play a significant role in promoting the health, resilience, and effectiveness of change makers in the sustainability sector.
Mission:
To empower people & change makers with leadership skills and mental health support through innovative, animal-assisted activities, envisioning a future where compassionate leaders drive sustainable change while nurturing their own well-being.
Vision:
To cultivate resilient, empathetic leaders who drive positive change for a sustainable future, guided by the wisdom and companionship of therapy animals.
Methodology:
Our methodology is designed to harness the healing power of animals while ensuring the well-being and safety of our therapy animals > Read more
In a world grappling with unprecedented environmental and social challenges, the need for empathetic and resilient leaders has never been more critical. Our innovative approach leverages the healing power of therapy animals to nurture key leadership qualities such as empathy, authenticity, and resilience, empowering change-makers to lead with purpose and drive sustainable change.
Our programs are designed to address some of the most pressing issues faced by leaders in impact organizations. Studies have shown that 90% of leaders in such organizations experience high levels of stress, with 72% of NGO workers showing symptoms of burnout, significantly higher than other industries. Mental health conditions cost U.S. employers over $200 billion annually in lost productivity, and leadership capacity is a significant barrier to scaling social and environmental impact, according to the Global Impact Investing Network. Additionally, employees with poor mental health are more likely to leave their jobs, leading to significant turnover expenses.
Pawsitive Leaders offers a unique solution through animal-assisted activities, which have been proven to reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels and increasing oxytocin production. Our programs, including Canine-guided Leadership Workshops and Mindfulness with Dogs Retreats, help individuals manage stress, reduce burnout symptoms, and improve productivity. Research shows that interactions with therapy animals can improve communication, teamwork, and leadership skills significantly. By fostering a supportive environment and enhancing emotional well-being, we help organizations retain valuable talent and build a culture of resilience and empathy.
Get to know us better
Hello! I’m Alejandro Ortega, founder of Pawsitive Leaders
I am a dog behaviorist, a veterinary nurse and a proud member of the International Association of Canine Professionals.
Additionally I have over a decade of experience in leadership development, entrepreneurship, and founder mentorship, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our programs. My professional journey has taken me to different industries in business from technology to food businesses and specially I have worked as an international entrepreneur for the past 5 years, specializing in impact startup & leadership development.
Since I was little, animals and nature have been my refuge, and thanks to that I have been able to easily connect to dogs on another level. My personal journey has given me a deep understanding of animal behavior, dog training, and the profound impact of animal-assisted activities.
The inspiration behind Pawsitive Leaders is deeply personal. After experiencing a burnout that nearly took my life, I realized the critical need for effective support systems. Combining my lifelong passion for animals and my professional expertise, I discovered the transformative power of animal-assisted activities. This pawsitive approach not only helped me recover but also made me a better leader for my team, my family, and myself.
Why choosing Pawsitive Leaders
Personalized Approach
Tailored programs to meet your unique needs and goals
Expert Guidance
Holistic Benefits
Community Support
Frequently asked questions
What are the benefits of animal-assisted activities for leadership development?
Animal-assisted activities help improve empathy, communication, and resilience. Interacting with therapy animals can reduce stress, enhance emotional intelligence, and provide unique insights into non-verbal communication, which are crucial for effective leadership.
Who can benefit from Pawsitive Leaders' services?
Our services are ideal for impact startup founders, NGO professionals, and change-makers in sustainability who seek to enhance their leadership abilities and well-being. We also support individuals experiencing burnout or emotional challenges.
What kind of animals are involved in your programs?
Our programs primarily involve therapy dogs, but we also integrate other therapy animals like horses where appropriate. These animals are carefully selected and trained to support therapeutic and developmental activities.
How can I get started with Pawsitive Leaders?
To get started, you can send us a message using the form above or send us an email to hello@pawsitiveleaders.org.
We offer a range of services, including workshops, retreats, and coaching sessions. Once you express interest, we will guide you through our offerings and help you choose the best program for your needs.
How do Pawsitive Leaders' workshops and retreats work?
Our workshops and retreats combine hands-on exercises with therapy animals, mindfulness practices, and interactive sessions. Participants engage in activities designed to develop leadership skills, manage stress, and foster personal growth, all facilitated by trained professionals.
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