Roxy Reading volunteers Marilyn Tyma (left) and Rudy, a giant schnauzer, help hand out stuffed animals to children waiting to see Judge Robert Mellon.
Most of the kids who find themselves in Bucks County Judge Robert Mellon’s courtroom don’t have a favorite teddy bear to hug at night.
Many of the children were pulled out of their homes in a hurry, amid allegations of child abuse or neglect. The plastic trash bags in which they carry their few belongings when they arrive at a foster home usually contain clothes and school books. There’s rarely room for something soft and comforting.
Yet comfort is exactly what dependent children need, said Mellon, who oversees hearings involving children who have been removed from their parents’ care. Since becoming involved with the hearings two years ago, the judge has spearheaded a number of novel programs aimed at reducing kids’ trauma in court, including introducing Doylestown’s Roxy Reading therapy dog program to the courthouse last summer. Read more…
Join us for an evening of fun, food, cocktails and fundraising at the second annual CANINES ON THE CATWALK event featuring therapy dogs and their human models. Tickets are selling out fast! Get yours at Animal Lifeline Thrift Store, Rt.611, Warrington, or Doylestown Animal Medical Clinic, Doylestown. Thanks to Animal Lifeline for hosting this great event!
JUNE 2011
Great Grizzly Award
Groveland Elementary School
“For your dedication to our students and our reading and support programs. Thank you for the amazing impact Roxy Reading volunteers have made on our children!”
MAY 2011
Doyle Day Bucket Volunteer Award
Doyle Elementary School
“For filling our school and our students’ buckets with kindness and happiness!”
MAY 2010
Doyle Dedicated Trailblazer Award
Bridge Valley Elementary School
“For collaborating with our school and giving our students such joy. You are a true asset to our Bridge Valley community.”
MAY 2010
Four Way Test Award
Doylestown Rotary Club
“For service above self; demonstrating excellence in the four way test of the things we think, say and do.”
SEPTEMBER 2009
Award of Commendation
PA Federation of Dog Clubs, Inc.
JUNE 2006
Good Listener Award
Gayman Elementary School Learning Support Team
The Philadelphia Inquirer
American Kennel Club Gazette
Bucks County Courier Times
The New Hope Gazette
The Intelligencer
Dtown Magazine
Bucks County Woman Magazine
The Bucks County Herald
Philly Buzz in Bucks