April marks the observance of National Volunteer Month, a time to celebrate our tireless, dedicated volunteers for all they do to give back to the Veteran community. Volunteers are more than just helpers—they’re the backbone of Warrior Canine Connection (WCC). 

We simply couldn’t do all that we do without our volunteers. I’d like to reinforce that statement by providing some concrete examples of the impact volunteers have on our organization.

Last year alone, a total of 536 volunteers assisted WCC for a record-breaking total of 102,939 hours (about 11 and a half years!) across our 15 program sites. That massive volunteer manpower accounted for a major cost savings to WCC, valued at $3,083,024.00 (based on $29.95 per hour)—all while serving 1,152 Veterans through 4,667 hours of Canine-Assisted Therapy. That’s a significant impact that allows WCC to designate its resources and funds to its No-Fail Mission of providing highly trained service dogs to Veterans with visible and invisible wounds.

We are also proud to share that, also in fiscal year 2022, WCC’s volunteers received 148 Maryland Governor Citations and 101 Presidential Service Awards for their efforts. 

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that in addition to the gift of time, talents and treasures, we have built so many meaningful relationships with our volunteers, many who we consider not just friends, but family. 

We’re already more than a quarter into 2023, and our amazing volunteers are on-track to top these amazing numbers this year. Are you looking for an opportunity to engage with WCC? Check out our individual and group volunteer opportunities here.

Last but not least, I’d like to say a heartfelt “thank you” to all our volunteers who have not only made a significant impact on our organization, but on the Veterans’ lives they’ve worked so tirelessly to benefit. Dog Bless!

Rick Yount
Founder & Executive Director, Warrior Canine Connection