Heroes with Heart: Honoring WCC Volunteers

April is Volunteer Appreciation Month, a time to celebrate the dedicated individuals who give their time and talents to Warrior Canine Connection (WCC). Our volunteers are the backbone of our mission, playing a vital role in training and supporting service dogs that will one day assist military Veterans and their families. From Puppy Raisers and Sitters to event supporters and behind-the-scenes helpers, their commitment ensures WCC can continue making a meaningful impact.

In 2024 alone, 885 volunteers generously gave 142,803 hours of their time—an estimated value of $4,782,472.47. Their dedication directly impacts every aspect of WCC’s mission, from raising and training future service dogs to supporting events, administrative efforts, and community outreach. Their time, talents, and passion ensure that Veterans and their families receive the life-changing support of expertly trained service dogs, making a lasting difference in countless lives.

But what truly drives them to give so much of themselves? We asked, “What is your WHY?” and here’s what our amazing volunteers had to say.

“The change that happens after just a few visits in every Veteran we encounter. The smiles, conversations, hugs. I work with two very open and fun trainers, who don’t take themselves too seriously but always put the Veterans we serve first.”
– Robin Martin, WCC Asheville

“It brings me so much joy to see these dogs grow and learn, and to know how much they will help their veteran one day. The men and women of our Armed Forces give so much to all of us and deserve more given back to them than we provide. WCC helps bridge this gap but helps give people their lives back while creating an amazing community for all who volunteer in any capacity. These dogs touch every life they are a part of, and I couldn’t be prouder to be a part of this fantastic organization.”
– Hailey Swisher, WCC UMD/College Park

“Working with dogs is my dream job. Working with dogs that help other people is my dream fantasy. I’ve always wanted to help people, but I’m not much of a people person. Working with dogs that will eventually make the difference in someone’s life is the best way I can think of to contribute and to help repay those veterans who have sacrificed so much for us.”
– Anne Pickle, WCC NoVA

“I do because I can. This is how I give back to those who served our country. And puppies. Whose why isn’t puppies, right?”
– Jessica Rabin, WCC Baltimore

“I’ve witnessed firsthand the impact WCC dogs have—not only on the Veterans who are matched with and receive a service dog, but also on those who participate in their training through the Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) program. These dogs possess a special ability to connect with humans in ways that often transcend human-to-human interaction.”
– Karen Chiu, WCC Menlo Park

“Each of my todays = snuggles and puppy kisses for me. Each of my tomorrows = snuggles and puppy kisses for a Veteran.”
– Karen O’Malley, WCC NoVA

“I love the fact that the abundance of love I have in my heart for the dogs is translated to major impact on an individual’s quality of life or an organization’s quality of work.”
– Renee French, WCC Healing Quarters

“We come from a family of Veterans and have close friends who are Veterans. We joined WCC to give back to the community of heroes who have helped our country.”
– Stephanie and Fred Short, WCC Philadelphia

“I just love being a part of an organization that gives back. The WCC volunteers and staff have been so welcoming. I love going there and seeing the dogs and people. The setting is so peaceful.”
– Diane Fox, WCC Healing Quarters

At WCC, our volunteers aren’t just helping out—they’re making a real, lasting impact every single day. Their dedication brings comfort, healing, and hope to the Veterans we serve, and we simply couldn’t do this work without them. While National Volunteer Month is a great time to say thank you, we’re grateful for their commitment all year long. To every volunteer who plays a role in our mission—thank you for your time, passion, and unwavering support!

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