Supporting Youth

Bear PAWS: Where food, fun, and friendship come together to nurture the leaders of tomorrow.
Explore Our Program

Supporting Austin Middle School Students

Bear PAWS is an after-school program that strives to provide a safe, welcoming space where young people can thrive through food, fun, and friendship.

Who We Serve

We serve Austin Middle School students, many of whom face economic, academic, or social challenges.

Our Approach

We offer nourishment, character development, and leadership training in a supportive environment.

Our Impact

Since our beginning in 2022,we've grown from serving 12 students to enrolling over 106 students in 2026. We continue to grow weekly!
Learn More About Our offerings

What we Offer

Nourishment

We provide popular meals from favorite local restaurants.

Character Development

We build strong foundations for character through perseverance, integrity, and compassion.

Social Skills Development

We foster effective communication, empathy, and collaboration, helping the students create meaningful connections with their peers.

Leadership Development

We equip teens with the skills to inspire others, make confident decisions, and lead with integrity in their schools and communities.

Spiritual Development

We teach spiritual disciplines that prepares students to enter high school as Christ followers.
Get Involved

Our Progress

Since our inception in 2022, Bear PAWS has made a significant impact on the lives of Austin Middle School students. Here's a glimpse of our progress and the positive changes we've fostered:
106

Students Enrolled

2465

Meals served in 2025-2026 schoolyear

176

Donors

21

Volunteers

Success Story

"If every community had a Bear Paws program, this world would be a much better place."
- Potter County Judge Nancy Tanner

Success Story

"Bear Paws is a wonderful program. Students that participate are showing gains in social growth, character development, and leadership abilities."
– Brandi Ray, Principal

A message from the Executive Director

"Bear PAWS is a dynamic program! Every middle school student needs this experience."
- Darlene Martin, Executive Director
Join Us In Making A Difference

Make a Difference: Volunteer with Bear PAWS

Your time and skills can change a young person's life. Join our team of dedicated volunteers and help shape the future of Austin Middle School students. We meet together every Tuesday 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Our Organization
Get InvolvedOur Program Contact UsAbout UsDonate
sparklesyt
© 2024 Amarillo Bear PAWS, Inc. All rights reserved.
Amarillo Bear Paws, Inc is an Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3) tax-exempt code #99-1726031 as determined by the Department of the Treasury, Internal Revenue Service, and the State of Texas.
Privacy Policy
Terms of Service
Contact Us