Will Rogers World Airport celebrates the 10-year anniversary of The Human Animal Link of Oklahoma’s (H.A.L.O.) presence at the Airport, marking a decade of fostering connections between humans and animals.
To commemorate this significant milestone, H.A.L.O. is hosting an anniversary gathering at the Airport’s checkpoint area at 1:30 p.m. on March 22. The event is open to the public.
During the event, participants can meet the dedicated therapy animals and their handlers, who have been at the forefront of H.A.L.O.'s mission to create moments of joy and comfort for airport travelers. H.A.L.O. will also recognize people and organizations who have contributed to the program’s success.
"We believe in the health and wellness our pets deliver to those who find themselves in times of transition, trauma, or crisis,” CEO and Founder of H.A.L.O. Terri Smith said. “Our pets are a driving force leading human beings of all ages, maybe for the first time, into experiencing a calm, no strings attached, sincere relationship."
Will Rogers World Airport and H.A.L.O. entered into an agreement in March 2014, making Oklahoma the fifth state in the U.S. to establish and conduct an Airport Therapy Dog program.
“H.A.L.O. has become a beacon of hope and support for travelers passing through Will Rogers World Airport, enriching their travel experiences with the therapeutic presence of specially trained animals,” Public Information & Marketing Manager at Will Rogers World Airport Stacey Hamm said. “As we reflect on the past decade, H.A.L.O. remains dedicated to its mission of promoting well-being and alleviating stress through the power of human-animal interaction. We are happy to celebrate our volunteers and their pups who make our passengers feel more at ease every day.”
About H.A.L.O.
Human Animal Link of Oklahoma Foundation was established as a 501c3 nonprofit in 2010. H.A.L.O., as it is known, provides animal-assisted therapy, interventions, and activities for university and school campuses, elder care services, hospice agencies, mental health facilities, veteran's programs, youth shelters, courthouses, libraries, and hospitals throughout the state of Oklahoma. 12 highly trained handlers and canines participate in 52 partnerships throughout Oklahoma. To learn more about H.A.L.O., visit yourhalofoundation.org.