Therapy Animals and Music: A Powerful Combination for Connection and Well-Being

Dr. Galen Duncan (National PAL)

SMSCO SO: Sergeant Lillian Tashiro, Deputy Andrea Dion, Deputy James Hajik, Deputy Danielle Martinez, Mason Lok, SAL Youth Juliana Garcia and Desire Cortez-Estrada

25 local teens from Cañada College in Redwood City
At the heart of the San Mateo County Sheriff's Activities League (SAL) is a mission to strengthen bonds between local youth and deputies. San Mateo County SAL partnered with @NationalPAL to host an engaging and informative workshop for more than 25 local teens at Cañada College in Redwood City, as part of the Orgullo y Educación (OYE) Conference. The session highlighted how animals (including our very own Therapy K-9s), stuffed animals and music can offer comfort, support emotional well-being and provide therapeutic benefits. 

San Mateo County SAL was honored to collaborate with Dr. Galen Duncan from National PAL who led an informative discussion about how music can be a form of therapy. Each participant went home with a new stuffed animal of their own and tangible ways they can incorporate music into their daily routine to help calm stressors. 

Juvenile Services

Adam
Adam’s journey began with challenges—expelled from high school, involved with the justice system from a young age, and placed on probation. Adam was referred to FLY’s Leadership Training Program and he gradually opened up, finding connection, support, and motivation. He engaged deeply in pro-social activities, developed strong bonds with his case manager, and even led the planning of a community BBQ. Participating in social-emotional learning helped Adam build advocacy, communication, and life skills. These gains empowered him to transition back to a comprehensive high school, where he is now set to graduate early. Adam also fulfilled probation requirements, gained employment, earned his driver’s license, and grew into a confident leader. His growth was marked by resilience, self-awareness, and a willingness to accept help. Adam is now a positive role model, poised to return to the program as a peer leader.

Institution Services

Karl
Karl joined the Therapeutic Beat Making (TBM) program with enthusiasm and quickly became one of the most engaged students. Though initially hesitant to collaborate with peers, he thrived in one-on-one instruction and remained motivated despite early challenges with the equipment. Over three months, Karl learned to use professional music production tools, eventually completing his own track. Through the TBM curriculum, Karl discovered a new passion and a potential career path in music production—something he hadn’t considered before. He expressed a desire to continue learning after his release and hopes to set up a home studio to build on his skills. TBM staff connected him with local resources to support his next steps. As Karl shared, “I think I might’ve found something that I’m passionate about.”

In-Home Support Services

Frankie

Eddie

Frankie, 7 years old / Eddie, 4 years old
Frankie and Eddie, two young brothers from Menlo Park, live with their parents and extended family. Both were diagnosed early with autism and pica, requiring constant care. Their mother, Natalie, provides full-time supervision, as the boys experience developmental delays, sensory issues, and behaviors that pose safety risks. Feeling overwhelmed, Natalie applied for the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program after learning about it through local resources. With guidance from an IHSS social worker, she completed the application and secured documentation from the pediatrician, resulting in approval for Protective Supervision for both children. IHSS now provides vital support, ensuring the boys’ safety and helping their family manage daily challenges. In San Mateo County, IHSS serves more than 880 children under 18, with 59% receiving Protective Supervision—support that is often essential for families of children with special needs.

"As a parent of two neurodivergent children, every day brings a blend of challenge, resilience, and unconditional love. My sons, both with unique needs and abilities, require constant supervision for their health and safety — something that can be both emotionally and physically exhausting without the right support. For families like mine, the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) [program] and Protective Supervision is not just a service — it's a lifeline. IHSS [and] Protective Supervision is more than a government program — it’s a recognition that our children matter, that their needs are real, and that families deserve to be supported in providing the safest, most loving environment possible. For that, we are deeply grateful."

- Natalie, mother of Frankie and Eddie

Adoptions and Resource Family Approval

Lucas, 13 years old, Jennifer

Thirteen-year-old Lucas, recently adopted by his resource parent Jennifer, embodies resilience and growth. When he entered foster care at age 11, he was nearly nonverbal, in poor health, and functioning like a three-year-old. Though Jennifer’s home was initially licensed only for infants, Social Worker Alex May helped her reconfigure it to welcome Lucas. Their bond formed quickly—within days, they were communicating in Spanish and English, and Jennifer engaged Lucas in enriching activities that nurtured his development.

Now a happy, vibrant teen, Lucas enjoys pupusa dinners, dance classes, nightly prayers, and reading with his adoptive mother. Jennifer, a priest and former child development student, praises the strong support from Lucas’s care team and encourages future foster parents to stay flexible and open. Social Worker May describes Lucas’s transformation as “truly remarkable,” confident he will continue to thrive under Jennifer’s devoted care.

Center on Homelessness (various contracted programs: YMCA Community Resource Center Core Services Agency, LifeMoves First Step for Families Transitional Shelter, and Abode Services)

Brian, 9 years old, Martin 11 years old, Angelica and Miguel

For over a year, Angelica Rodriguez, her partner Miguel Mata, their two sons, and their dog lived in a minivan after losing their Daly City home. Struggling with high housing costs and health challenges, they prioritized food and safety while keeping their children in school. Their situation changed when the YMCA Community Resource Center, a Core Service Agency contracted with the County’s Center on Homelessness, helped them access a hotel voucher and shelter placement through the Coordinated Entry System.

They soon moved into LifeMoves’ First Step for Families shelter, gaining stability, meals, and medical care. With help from LifeMoves, the County Housing Authority, and Abode Services, the family obtained a housing voucher and secured a two-bedroom apartment in San Mateo. Now rebuilding their lives, the boys are enrolled in new schools, Angelica is addressing her health, and Miguel continues working—grateful for the support that led them home.

“We were really afraid to tell anyone we were sleeping in the van because we felt like we were going to be judged.’” Angelica said, “we’re human beings. Everyone goes through things. Don’t judge people on their looks, like their physical looks or anything. You don’t know what’s going on.”