FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 4, 2020
Boyds, Md. – Warrior Canine Connection (WCC) is proud to announce that service dog Luke, a graduate of WCC’s class of 2016, was named the winner of the 21st annual AKC Humane Fund Awards for Canine Excellence (ACE) in the service dog category.
Ryan Garrison (Beavercreek, Ohio) and Luke, a six-year-old Labrador Retriever and mobility service dog, were paired up in 2016 by WCC. Garrison, who enlisted in the Air Force after the 9/11 attacks, was severely injured while deployed in Iraq in 2006. His injuries included fractured and torn disks in his back, which have resulted in numerous surgeries, chronic pain and anxiety.
Luke not only helps Garrison with his mobility and everyday tasks but since being paired with him, Garrison has been able to better control his anxiety and PTSD.
“I feel beyond blessed to be able to share what Luke, and other WCC service dogs, can do,” said Ryan Garrison. “My hope is to encourage other veterans to take a step forward to seek help.”
The official announcement was made today on an AKC.tv special, which featured a daily episode on each of the five ACE award categories (Uniformed Service K-9, Therapy, Service, Search and Rescue and Exemplary Companion dog) that aired November 30th – December 4th. Five winners were selected from 800 impressive nominations.
“Ryan and Luke have had a special bond since day one,” said Rick Yount, founder and executive director, Warrior Canine Connection. “Luke started healing humans as soon as he was named after 1st Sgt Luke Mercardante, a proud Marine killed in action in Kandahar Province Afghanistan. Service dog Luke brought comfort to the Gold Star Mercardante family, the many Veterans who helped train him in WCC’s Mission Based Trauma Recovery program, and especially to Ryan Garrison and his entire family, who regained their father and husband as they knew him.”
In January of this year, Ryan, Luke and his son were involved in a rollover vehicle crash, which triggered flashbacks of his incident in Iraq. Luke gently nudged and pawed at Ryan to pull him out of his anxiety attack. Once they were pulled to safety, Luke calmly walked over to him and took the comfort command position that he was taught at WCC. Even during such a traumatic incident, Luke followed his training and put comforting his owner ahead of anything else.
The experience with the incident earlier this year has inspired Ryan’s next challenge, Valor Therapeutics, a nonprofit he and his wife are launching to serve active duty Veterans and first responders in Dayton, Ohio and the surrounding area. They plan to provide creative arts therapies, such as music and art therapy, to individuals who’ve seen and experienced traumatic life events.
Media note: To arrange interviews or for photo requests, please contact Beth Bourgeois, Warrior Canine Connection, at 719-216-3206 or beth.bourgeois@warriorcanineconnection.org.
# # #
About Warrior Canine Connection
Warrior Canine Connection is a pioneering organization that utilizes a Mission Based Trauma Recovery model to empower returning combat Veterans who have sustained physical and psychological wounds while in service to our country. Based on the concept of Warriors helping Warriors, WCC’s therapeutic service dog training program is designed to mitigate symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, and other challenges, while giving injured combat Veterans a sense of purpose, and help in reintegrating back into their families and communities. For more information, visit www.warriorcanineconnection.org.
The AKC Humane Fund, Inc. unites animal lovers in promoting the joy and value of responsible pet ownership through education, outreach and grant-making. The Fund provides financial grants to domestic violence shelters and Breed Rescue organizations and awards scholarships to students pursuing professions that strengthen the human-animal bond. The AKC Humane Fund’s Awards for Canine Excellence are given each year to promote the important role dogs play in our lives. Contributions to the AKC Humane Fund are fully tax-deductible as allowed by law under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code. For more information, visit www.akchumanefund.org.
The American Kennel Club
Founded in 1884, the American Kennel Club is a not-for-profit organization which maintains the largest registry of purebred dogs in the world and oversees the sport of purebred dogs in the United States. The AKC is dedicated to upholding the integrity of its registry, promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function. Along with its more than 5,000 licensed and member clubs and its affiliated organizations, the AKC advocates for the purebred dog as a family companion, advances canine health and well-being, works to protect the rights of all dog owners and promotes responsible dog ownership. More than 22,000 competitions for AKC-registered purebred and mixed breed dogs are held under AKC rules and regulations each year including conformation, agility, obedience, rally, tracking, herding, lure coursing, coonhound events, hunt tests, field and earthdog tests. Affiliate AKC organizations include the AKC Humane Fund, AKC Canine Health Foundation, AKC Reunite and the AKC Museum of the Dog. For more information, visit www.akc.org.
AKC, American Kennel Club, the American Kennel Club seal and design, and all associated marks and logos are trademarks, registered trademarks and service marks of The American Kennel Club, Inc.
Become a fan of the American Kennel Club on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter @AKCDogLovers.
WCC Calendars and Ornaments Now Available!
While you’re at it, click “add to cart” on your 2020 WCC holiday ornament. An annual tradition since 2014, these ornaments work double-duty by serving as a thoughtful gift, while also supporting WCC’s programs at the same time.
This year’s design features a gingerbread man donning a WCC sweater. It has a bright nickel finish with soft enamel and glitter accents and includes a silver hanging string and decorative holiday envelope for easy gifting.
To place an order, click here.
Volunteerism: A Family Affair
“We’re not a military family, but we recognize and appreciate what Veterans as well as their families have sacrificed for the country,” said Pam. “When we learned about WCC’s program at the VA, it resonated with us because of its mission. We dove right in. We filled out our applications right away and were enrolled in puppy parent training classes within two weeks.”
Five years and three dogs later, the family is still as involved and as passionate about the work they’re doing for WCC. Over the years, Sajel and Emil’s responsibilities have changed, but they continued to play a large role in the training and development of WCC dogs Charlie, Howard and, most recently, Arthur.
“It has been an amazing five years — there are no words to express the gratitude for our involvement in the program,” said Pam. “WCC has created a community of support offering our family an opportunity to help Veterans”.
Besides being three-time puppy parents, the family has also generously gifted their time and talents at countless community awareness outings, fundraising events and at just about any other opportunity or need that comes up throughout the year.
“Over the years and with the placement of each dog with their Veteran, we have come to appreciate the impact and healing that these dogs have had on the Veteran and their family. It’s so rewarding to see the bigger picture, knowing that the dog is doing something that is so important for someone else that’s in need.”
Pam says their home feels empty without a dog right now.
“I’m quite amazed by how much free time we suddenly have — it’s like that third child you miss,” said Pam. “We are eagerly awaiting our fourth service-dog-in-training. Our family recently hosted Andrew for a week. We are hoping to get our fourth dog in January or February, once one is available.”
“Pam and Pawan, and their children Sajel and Emil, are a family dedicated to raising WCC dogs for our wounded Veterans,” said Alexis Baker, WCC service dog training instructor, Menlo Park. “Pam is good at reflecting on how to help her dog make the progress he needs to make. Taking the training bit-by-bit when necessary for a dog that might be struggling, has helped out on numerous occasions. The whole family is a delight to work with and I’m looking forward to them getting another dog to raise soon too!”
And although current programming is limited due to the pandemic, Pam says the family is excited to get more involved when life returns to “normal,” and she encourages other families to get involved with WCC.
“I’d like to add — for potential puppy parents, even though there is a certain amount of work to be done, it is a gratifying experience for the entire family.” said Pam. “There’s a selfish component to the experience, but obviously the bigger picture is how much these dogs contribute to our Veterans’ lives.”
If you’d like to learn more about becoming a WCC puppy parent, click here.
Warrior Canine Connection Service Dog Luke Honored with 2020 AKC® Humane Fund Award for Canine Excellence (ACE)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 4, 2020
Boyds, Md. – Warrior Canine Connection (WCC) is proud to announce that service dog Luke, a graduate of WCC’s class of 2016, was named the winner of the 21st annual AKC Humane Fund Awards for Canine Excellence (ACE) in the service dog category.
Ryan Garrison (Beavercreek, Ohio) and Luke, a six-year-old Labrador Retriever and mobility service dog, were paired up in 2016 by WCC. Garrison, who enlisted in the Air Force after the 9/11 attacks, was severely injured while deployed in Iraq in 2006. His injuries included fractured and torn disks in his back, which have resulted in numerous surgeries, chronic pain and anxiety.
Luke not only helps Garrison with his mobility and everyday tasks but since being paired with him, Garrison has been able to better control his anxiety and PTSD.
“I feel beyond blessed to be able to share what Luke, and other WCC service dogs, can do,” said Ryan Garrison. “My hope is to encourage other veterans to take a step forward to seek help.”
The official announcement was made today on an AKC.tv special, which featured a daily episode on each of the five ACE award categories (Uniformed Service K-9, Therapy, Service, Search and Rescue and Exemplary Companion dog) that aired November 30th – December 4th. Five winners were selected from 800 impressive nominations.
“Ryan and Luke have had a special bond since day one,” said Rick Yount, founder and executive director, Warrior Canine Connection. “Luke started healing humans as soon as he was named after 1st Sgt Luke Mercardante, a proud Marine killed in action in Kandahar Province Afghanistan. Service dog Luke brought comfort to the Gold Star Mercardante family, the many Veterans who helped train him in WCC’s Mission Based Trauma Recovery program, and especially to Ryan Garrison and his entire family, who regained their father and husband as they knew him.”
In January of this year, Ryan, Luke and his son were involved in a rollover vehicle crash, which triggered flashbacks of his incident in Iraq. Luke gently nudged and pawed at Ryan to pull him out of his anxiety attack. Once they were pulled to safety, Luke calmly walked over to him and took the comfort command position that he was taught at WCC. Even during such a traumatic incident, Luke followed his training and put comforting his owner ahead of anything else.
The experience with the incident earlier this year has inspired Ryan’s next challenge, Valor Therapeutics, a nonprofit he and his wife are launching to serve active duty Veterans and first responders in Dayton, Ohio and the surrounding area. They plan to provide creative arts therapies, such as music and art therapy, to individuals who’ve seen and experienced traumatic life events.
Media note: To arrange interviews or for photo requests, please contact Beth Bourgeois, Warrior Canine Connection, at 719-216-3206 or beth.bourgeois@warriorcanineconnection.org.
# # #
About Warrior Canine Connection
Warrior Canine Connection is a pioneering organization that utilizes a Mission Based Trauma Recovery model to empower returning combat Veterans who have sustained physical and psychological wounds while in service to our country. Based on the concept of Warriors helping Warriors, WCC’s therapeutic service dog training program is designed to mitigate symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, and other challenges, while giving injured combat Veterans a sense of purpose, and help in reintegrating back into their families and communities. For more information, visit www.warriorcanineconnection.org.
The AKC Humane Fund, Inc. unites animal lovers in promoting the joy and value of responsible pet ownership through education, outreach and grant-making. The Fund provides financial grants to domestic violence shelters and Breed Rescue organizations and awards scholarships to students pursuing professions that strengthen the human-animal bond. The AKC Humane Fund’s Awards for Canine Excellence are given each year to promote the important role dogs play in our lives. Contributions to the AKC Humane Fund are fully tax-deductible as allowed by law under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code. For more information, visit www.akchumanefund.org.
The American Kennel Club
Founded in 1884, the American Kennel Club is a not-for-profit organization which maintains the largest registry of purebred dogs in the world and oversees the sport of purebred dogs in the United States. The AKC is dedicated to upholding the integrity of its registry, promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function. Along with its more than 5,000 licensed and member clubs and its affiliated organizations, the AKC advocates for the purebred dog as a family companion, advances canine health and well-being, works to protect the rights of all dog owners and promotes responsible dog ownership. More than 22,000 competitions for AKC-registered purebred and mixed breed dogs are held under AKC rules and regulations each year including conformation, agility, obedience, rally, tracking, herding, lure coursing, coonhound events, hunt tests, field and earthdog tests. Affiliate AKC organizations include the AKC Humane Fund, AKC Canine Health Foundation, AKC Reunite and the AKC Museum of the Dog. For more information, visit www.akc.org.
AKC, American Kennel Club, the American Kennel Club seal and design, and all associated marks and logos are trademarks, registered trademarks and service marks of The American Kennel Club, Inc.
Become a fan of the American Kennel Club on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter @AKCDogLovers.
Attitude of Gratitude
We asked our team members at Warrior Canine Connection what they’re grateful for this year, and we’re sharing their responses with you, along with best wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season.
“I am thankful that WCC has figured out a way to stay open. That I have a place to work. And that by staying open, we’re able to continue to provide this great service to Veterans now and future.”
– Tim O’Boyle, Facilities Manager
“I’m grateful to be surrounded by dogs that constantly make me smile. They’re a good reminder to appreciate the “little” things, just like they do.”
– Jen Blessing, Service Dog Training Instructor
“That WCC and everyone who works here keeps moving forward, innovating and evolving even during these stressful times. The health of my friends and family and being able to be present in not just the big moments but the little ones as well. (And being able to workout at home is a bonus.)”
– Lydia Dehn, Human Resource Officer/Office Manager
“My work and personal families, friends, and neighbors – they have kept me sane and even smiling through this year. My sweet boys (dogs), Cezanne & Padriag, who show me how to live in the moment and what is most important. I am soooo thankful to still have a job and the ability to work from home when needed.”
– Cheryl Bingham, Puppy Program Manager and Trainer
“This year, I’m most thankful for the extra time I’ve had to spend with my little family. Covid forced us to slow the schedules down, play more games, listen to each other more, and just be grateful for the gift of time together.”
– Jennifer Wilder, Director of Development
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve those who have served in the armed forces not knowing where that would lead and that I get to do it with dogs and all of those who support us in our mission — from our EPWs to puppy sitters and parents, partner programs, and donors big and small — and of course, the founder and leadership of WCC! I’m grateful for the love and kindness of others, the network of friends checking in on each other. I’m grateful that when my husband is my only social contact, we still enjoy each other’s company!”
– Alexis Baker, Service Dog Training Instructor, Menlo Park
“I am very grateful for our two pups — Cheeky, our pet, and WCC Service Dog in Training Heather — who have gotten us through this difficult year with lots of love and fun. Dogs are the best stress relief out there!”
– Emily Fritz, Service Dog Training Instructor
“I would have to say that even with the challenges my family and the rest of the world have faced this year I am grateful for everyone’s resilience. With all the chaos that surrounds us, friends and family have found so many ways to stay engaged with each other. In some cases, through the wonders of the internet, I have actually had more contact with old friends than I have in the past. Luckily, I have had the benefit of the young adults in my house to open my eyes to the world of House Party and other group chat sites!”
– Kim Vaughn, Facilities Director
“Among many other things, I’m grateful that no humans or dogs were hurt in the tornado that hit HQ. Also grateful for the way our community helped us clean up and get back in operation!”
– Rick Yount, Founder and Executive Director
“I’m grateful for all the helpers in the world. I’m grateful for kindness, laughter, family, friends, my sweet dog Ziti, and pizza, of course.”
– Alyssa Malaspina, Social Media Specialist
“I am grateful to have a healthy and active family!”
– Amy Guidash, Serving Dog Training Instructor, Asheville
“I am grateful to work alongside such an incredible group of people who are dedicated to serving our Veterans.”
– Molly Morelli, Director of Dog Programs
“I am grateful for my family, my home, and to be a part of such a passionate, dedicated, and kind team of humans and dogs at WCC. I am also grateful for the veterans that I have met as the Client Liaison and for joining them on their journey to be placed with their dogs.”
– Katie Dockins, Veteran Client Liaison
“I am thankful for modern technologies that have allowed me to enjoy the company of friends and family while staying healthy and safe during this eventful year!”
– Allison Pitcher, Digital Communication Specialist
Warrior Canine Connection in Need of Puppy Parent Volunteers
November 10, 2020 – A special announcement just in time for Veterans Day- Warrior Canine Connection needs puppy parent volunteers.
The organization is headquartered in Boyds and provides specially trained service dogs to Military veterans nationwide. WCC Puppy Parent Program Manager Cheryl Bingham says although becoming a volunteer takes work, it is extremely rewarding because the puppies grow up and help veterans in need heal.
MyMCMedia spoke with Bingham and local puppy parent Susan Kenedy to learn more about the process. Watch the MyMCMedia story here.
Warrior Canine Connection Awarded $35,000 Grant from SAGA Foundation for Menlo Park Program
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 10, 2020
BOYDS, Md. – Warrior Canine Connection (WCC) has received a $35,000 grant from SAGA Foundation to support its therapeutic service dog training program at its Menlo Park Campus of the VA Palo Alto Care System. This marks the third grant to WCC from SAGA, bringing the organization’s contribution to WCC to nearly $100,000.
WCC’s program is unique from other service dog organizations in that it enlists Service Members and Veterans who are in recovery to help train the dogs for their fellow Warriors. Anchored in performing a military support mission, the participants in WCC’s Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) program concurrently benefit from the program while serving others. Program participants receive therapeutic benefits from skills development in communication, confidence building, accountability, emotional regulation and patience to promote an act of service.
“We appreciate SAGA Foundation’s continued support and sustained commitment to helping Veterans in need,” said Rick Yount, executive director and founder, Warrior Canine Connection. “This grant funding is crucial in helping us to continue providing Veterans in California with the healing benefits that come from the human-animal bond.”
Due to support provided by SAGA Foundation, in 2019, WCC’s was able to achieve the following impact in California:
“SAGA Foundation recognizes those who have sacrificed so that we can live in a free country,” said David Bartoshuk, president of SAGA Foundation. “We are grateful to be able to help our veterans by way of this amazing, impactful program.”
WCC has been providing its Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) training program for Veterans at the Menlo Park Campus of the Palo Alto Health Care System since 2012.
SAGA Foundation awards annual grants through a selective application and review process, placing priority on organizations that focus on leadership, underserved youth, safety & security and global peace.
For more information, please contact Beth Bourgeois, Warrior Canine Connection, at beth.bourgeois@warriorcanineconnection.org.
# # #
About Warrior Canine Connection
Warrior Canine Connection is a pioneering organization that utilizes a Mission Based Trauma Recovery model to empower returning combat Veterans who have sustained physical and psychological wounds while in service to our country. Based on the concept of Warriors helping Warriors, WCC’s therapeutic service dog training program is designed to mitigate symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, and other challenges, while giving injured combat Veterans a sense of purpose, and help in reintegrating back into their families and communities. For more information, visit www.warriorcanineconnection.org.
About SAGA Foundation
SAGA Foundation assists nonprofit organizations focusing on the issues of leadership, underserved youth, safety and security, and global peace. We collaborate with nonpartisan, nondenominational, entrepreneurial nonprofit organizations to help them work smarter, reach further, and have lasting impact. Visit https://sagafoundation.org/ to learn more.
Addy, 9, Bakes Cupcakes Fur a Good Paws — to Benefit WCC
Addy, like her fellow fourth-graders at Sinking Springs Elementary School in York, Pennsylvania, has been doing virtual schooling from home. She says she misses her friends and teachers but due to the pandemic, is making the best of the situation. That includes taking up a new hobby: baking.
“I started with peanut butter cookies; I went on YouTube and found the recipe,” said Addy. “Then I moved on to another cookie, then cupcakes, then brownies. I have tried all different kinds of recipes. I don’t worry about perfection; I just enjoy making them.”
After dozens of different recipes, Addy got the idea to turn her love of baking into a fundraiser for Warrior Canine Connection. She created a Facebook event and invited family and friends to come by her house to purchase cupcakes during a three-hour window one day over Labor Day weekend.
Not only did she sell out in an hour, she raised $425 for WCC in the process.
“I wanted to raise money for a group and I had a couple of options, and I liked the Warrior Canine Connection best because I like dogs and because Emily (one of WCC’s trainers) works there and she’s part of our family,” said Addy.
As you might imagine, baking six varieties for a total of 130 cupcakes is no small feat for anyone, let alone a 9-year-old, novice baker. You might assume she had some help, right?
“Mom is not the baker,” said Amanda Albright, Addy’s mom. “I just make sure the kitchen stays in one piece; I am not the baker, that’s all Addy.”
Addy baked all 130 cupcakes the day before the fundraiser. Then the day of, she got up at 5 a.m. to make the icing and decorate each one; it was a five-hour labor of love.
And as Addy’s mom, Amanda, will tell you, the experience was also a larger life lesson for her 9-year-old daughter.
“She told me, ‘You know Mommy, I really feel proud of myself,’ and it felt good as a mom to see her accomplish something she put her mind to and that she was doing something to help others,” said Amanda.
Addy says she plans to host a second fundraiser for WCC, likely around April 21st to coincide with her 10th birthday. Whether she’ll bake cupcakes or cookies is still to be determined.
Want to try one of Addy’s favorite recipes? This pumpkin cupcake with pumpkin spice cream cheese is from the Love Bakes Good Cakes blog and is one of the six Addy made for her fundraiser.
“I like the pumpkin flavor and while they are baking it smells so good in the kitchen. Pumpkin cupcakes remind me of fall and that is my favorite season,” said Addy.
Coming Home Well Podcast: Warrior Canine Connection
September 12, 2020 – In this episode, Tyler Pieron with Coming Home Well interviews Rick Yount, the Executive Director and founder of Warrior Canine Connection (warriorcanineconnection.org/), who breed, train and place service dogs with severely wounded veterans. What makes Warrior Canine Connection special is they include veterans and injured service members in all aspects of preparing a dog as a service animal, from taking care of puppies to socializing them to training the dogs. This special approach allows a single service dog to help more than 60 warriors as they go from a purpose-bred puppy to a fully trained service dog helping a severely wounded veteran. Listen to the Coming Home Well podcast on Warrior Canine Connection here.
Warrior Canine Connection holds a virtual graduation ceremony for its Class of 2020
October 1, 2020 – Warrior Canine Connection pawtastically graduated its Class of 2020 in a virtual ceremony that united eight newly minted service dogs with their furever veteran.
“There’s just this relationship with humans and dogs that I think transcends any other animal pairing that’s out there,” explained Army Staff Sgt. Danny Farrar, who was paired with Eli. “And they get the joy of being around you. I’m not sure any other animal gets that same type of joy from being around you, and you also get the joy that comes from being around them.” Read the complete ConnectingVets.com story here.
Meet WCC’s Class of 2020!
Warrior Canine Connection was honored to introduce its 2020 graduating class of Veteran Service Dog Teams, facility dogs and breeder dogs during its eighth annual graduation on Saturday, September 26th.
This year’s ceremony marked WCC’s first virtual ceremony, a format change made due to the COVID-19 pandemic. More than 500 people tuned in for the virtual ceremony. If you missed it or perhaps you’d just like to see it again, you can watch it here.
Congratulations to WCC’s Class of 2020!