Children in Northeastern’s summer reading program, Word Detectives, were visited Wednesday by golden retrievers from Golden Opportunities for Independence.

The meet-and-greet outside the Behrakis Health Sciences Center was a big hit with the students attending the four-week summer reading program on Northeastern’s Boston campus.

The program helps students entering grades 2-6 who are reading below grade level to maintain their skills over the summer and boost their confidence going into the next school year.

The mission of Golden Opportunities for Independence is to empower people with disabilities to live a more fulfilling life with the love and assistance of a dog and a mentor.