MONTEREY COUNTY — SPCA Monterey County is strengthening its commitment to South Monterey County schools, teachers and communities by increasing the number of classrooms and children reached through its Humane Education programs.
Last year, the SPCA’s Humane Education team inspired 8,690 children and adults throughout Monterey County with lessons that build empathy, prevent cruelty and deepen the bond between people and pets.
This year, the SPCA is expanding its program offerings in South Monterey County by hiring an additional educator, ensuring that even more students and community members can benefit from these engaging, life-changing programs.
The Humane Education program is led by Kennedy Rivera, SPCA community educator, and Blanca Marquez, SPCA South County community educator—two compassionate, professional educators dedicated to making a difference.
Rivera joined the SPCA in 2025, leading its popular summer Animal Camp program. Her experience as the school and community programs specialist at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center and as an educator with the Santa Barbara Zoo has equipped her with expertise in both formal and informal teaching.
“I’m excited to encourage our communities to show compassion, kindness and respect for animals and others,” Rivera said.
Marquez brings her experience as a high school teacher and her strong ties to the Salinas and South Monterey County community. Born in Guanajuato, Mexico, and raised in Salinas, she is bilingual and understands the unique needs and strengths of the region.
A proud SPCA adopter and veterinary clinic client, Marquez shares her home with Mulan, a sweet and sassy Shih-Tzu.
“I’m honored to work with the community to help children and pets,” she said.
SPCA Monterey County’s Humane Education programs are offered free of charge to schools and community groups, thanks to the generosity of donors. Teachers, schools and community leaders interested in bringing these programs to their classrooms or events can learn more or schedule a visit by emailing in**@****mc.org or calling 831-264-5404.
SPCA Monterey County is a nonprofit, independent, donor-supported humane society that has been serving the animals and people of Monterey County since 1905. It shelters homeless, neglected and abused pets and livestock, and provides humane education and countless other services to the community. For more information, visit spcamc.org.
