Tag Archive for: WCC Volunteers

By the Numbers: Volunteer Impact in 2025

Volunteer impact isn’t just part of the story at Warrior Canine Connection — it is the story. 

In 2025 alone, 838 dedicated volunteers gave 137,507 hours of their time, generating an extraordinary $4.7 million in impact. Every one of those hours helped train service dogs and support the healing journeys of Veterans and Military Families. 

That impact includes 101 Veteran volunteers and 213 Military Family volunteers whose lived experiences strengthen the very community we serve, along with corporate partners who contributed 787 hours of hands-on support. During Volunteer Appreciation Month, we celebrate more than numbers — we celebrate the hands, hearts and commitment that move this mission forward every single day.

“We celebrate every role and every hand that gives to WCC — those who care for the dogs in the kennels, those who nurture our moms and babies, the volunteers who prepare meals for our veterans when they are matched, our devoted sitters and our dedicated puppy raisers,” said Molly Elmore, WCC volunteer program manager. “Each act of service, whether quiet or visible, carries a heartfelt impact. I am profoundly grateful that our diverse group of volunteers are united by a shared commitment to something bigger than themselves.”  

If you’ve ever considered getting involved, there’s a place for you here. Whether you can give a few hours or make a deeper commitment, your time can help change lives. We invite you to learn more about joining our volunteer community and becoming part of this mission in action. Learn more about how you can get involved here. 
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How Connection Built a Volunteer Community at WCC

If the “six degrees of separation” theory suggests we’re all connected through a handful of relationships, the community at Warrior Canine Connection (WCC) proves it might be even simpler: sometimes it only takes one puppy.

For many of WCC’s earliest volunteers, that connection started online—watching a litter of puppies on the Explore.org puppy cam. Viewers from across the country gathered in the chat, bonding over late-night puppy antics and a shared admiration for WCC’s mission to train service dogs alongside Veterans. Over time, those watchers became more than usernames. They became a community.

At the center of it all was WCC co-founder Molly Morelli, who regularly joined the chat to answer questions and connect with viewers.

“She was so open with talking to everyone through the chat for so long,” recalled WCC volunteer Ericka Johanek. “People knew each other by their usernames.”

One of those usernames belonged to Alice Belthoff, who discovered the puppy cam in 2012 while watching a litter affectionately known as Holly’s Half Dozen. Like many others, she became a regular—helping gather questions and building connections that extended far beyond the screen.

That spirit of engagement quickly took on a name. One day, Molly jokingly referred to the devoted watchers as “Extreme Puppy Watchers,” or EPWs—and the nickname stuck.

What began online soon became something more. Viewers started visiting WCC’s original Brookeville campus for “puppy petting,” eager to meet the dogs—and each other—in person.

Others followed a similar path. Ericka, who discovered the puppy cam through family, made the trip with her children after chatting with Molly online.

“We drove up on a Saturday morning,” she said. “That first day, we came as strangers. But it didn’t take long before we felt like part of something bigger.”

Soon, that sense of belonging spread. Volunteers like Lee Snyder, BettyAnn Marrone, Julie Hansen, Jean Wolfe, Sandy Rosenberg, Karen Ball and countless others stepped in to help in meaningful ways—from launching the EPWs’ Facebook community to securing materials that helped transform a garage into what would become WCC’s Puppy Enrichment Center.

For many, those early experiences became life changing. What started as a simple visit or shared moment online evolved into lasting friendships, new passions and a deep commitment to WCC’s mission.

In 2013, that growing community came together for the first-ever volunteer “Paw-ty.” Despite pouring rain, more than 100 people traveled to Brookeville to celebrate the connections they had formed through WCC.

That same spirit carried into WCC’s first service dog graduation, where volunteers helped cook, organize and honor the life-changing partnerships between Veterans and their service dogs.

Over the years, the EPWs have remained a vital part of WCC’s volunteer network. While involvement has evolved, the relationships have endured—often becoming a source of strength during life’s most challenging moments.

For EPW Sandy Goga, that connection became deeply personal.

“Losing loved ones left a space in my life that felt impossible to fill, but WCC and the EPWs brought me companionship and connection when I needed it most,” said Goga. “The friendships I’ve built through this community have been a lifeline, they’ve given me strength, purpose and a way forward.”

Stories like Sandy’s reflect what has always set this community apart: a shared purpose that extends well beyond the puppies themselves.

Today, WCC’s volunteer family stretches far beyond those early puppy cam watchers. But the heart of it remains unchanged—people brought together to support Veterans through the healing power of service dogs.

And during Volunteer Appreciation Month, WCC celebrates the thousands of volunteers whose connections, whether through a puppy cam, a campus visit or a shared mission,  continue to make that impact possible.

Because sometimes, all it takes is one small connection to change countless lives.
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WCC in the News: NBC’s TODAY

WCC Puppy Raiser Extraordinaires Jane and Pat Hipsley were recently featured on NBC’s TODAY, highlighting the national shortage of Puppy Raiser volunteers and the incredible impact they have on programs, like our own. Their dedication — and the efforts of all our amazing Puppy Raisers — makes WCC’s work possible. This story celebrates the heart and reach of our volunteer community and shows what we can achieve when passionate people step up to help.

We’re actively seeking volunteers to join this amazing effort! Becoming a WCC Puppy Raiser gives you the chance to transform lives, and we’re making these opportunities more flexible so you can contribute in ways that fit your schedule and lifestyle.

Watch NBC’s TODAY story here and be inspired. Want to get involved? Learn more about being a WCC Puppy Raiser here.
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WCC Dog Days of Summer

It was a paws-itively great day at WCC’s Healing Quarters as we recently hosted our very first Dog Days of Summer celebration! From zoomie-worthy dog races to splash zones, frozen treats and dazzling performances by our friends at Luna Aerial Dance & Performing Arts, the day was filled with pure joy for pups and people alike.

But beyond the fun and wagging tails, Dog Days of Summer was designed with a dual purpose: to celebrate the incredible volunteers and Puppy Raisers who make our mission possible and to open our doors to new faces in the community. This event offered an open house feel, inviting guests to learn more about how they can get involved and help nurture future service dogs who change the lives of Veterans with visible and invisible wounds.

To all of you already part of our pack, we say an enormous THANK YOU! Your time, love and commitment truly make a life-changing difference. And whether you joined us for the event and felt the pull of puppy love—or you’re just discovering our mission now—there’s always room for you in our growing pack. WCC is always in need of more caring Puppy Raisers and volunteers. If you’re ready to unleash your impact, we’d love to have you join our team! Learn more and fill out an application here.

And don’t miss highlights from the event—check out our Dog Days of Summer recap video here.
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From Fear to Friendship: Healing Through Puppies

By the time Chitra Vijayakumar stumbled upon a Facebook post in 2018 about volunteering with Warrior Canine Connection (WCC), she and her husband Vijay had already made peace with what they thought would never be possible: helping Naveen, their adult son with autism overcome his fear of dogs.

Though the couple had raised three dogs back in India, their son had always been terrified of animals, especially dogs—an issue that became particularly challenging during trips home, where stray dogs are everywhere.

“We didn’t want to adopt a dog since we weren’t sure he’d ever be comfortable,” said Vijayakumar. “But when I saw that post about WCC looking for volunteers, something told me to learn more.”

That decision would change the trajectory of their family’s life.

Vijayakumar attended an interest meeting at WCC’s headquarters in Boyds, Maryland, and quickly fell in love with the organization’s mission of healing Veterans through the power of human-animal connection. Though she and her husband couldn’t become puppy parents due to demanding jobs, they found other ways to get involved.

“I signed up to volunteer as a puppy watcher in the evenings,” she recalled. “I loved spending time with the dogs—and my husband was jealous! So, I started signing him up for puppy petting sessions, which he’d happily take time off work to attend.”

Eventually, Vijayakumar became a certified puppy sitter, bringing WCC’s service-dogs-in-training into her home for short stays. With every visit, her son slowly but surely began to change.

“Since 2018, we’ve welcomed 45 puppies into our home,” she said. “Each one brought us joy, and every single one helped my son grow more comfortable. Today, he will not only pet the dogs—he’ll kiss them on the forehead when I ask.”

The transformation wasn’t just emotional, it was profound.

“These dogs have understood my son in a way few people ever could,” Vijayakumar said. “They sense his energy, give him space and wait until he’s ready. Even in training, their intuition and empathy are incredible.”

As a puppy sitter, Vijayakumar saw firsthand how each pup, while preparing for a future of service, was already making an impact long before graduation. The experience, she said, taught her lessons in unconditional love, patience and purpose.

Chitra’s kindness and commitment didn’t just benefit her—they also greatly enriched the lives of WCC’s puppies and helped strengthen the organization as a whole.

“Chitra has always gone above and beyond to take on pups that needed a temporary place to stay,” said Lauren Tyler, WCC breeding and puppy development manager. “She’s always done it with a smile, and no matter what the puppies threw at her, she thought they were all equally wonderful. I could always trust that when Chitra took a pup home, she gave them a lot of love and care, and I have always been grateful for her unconditional support—she will be missed.”

Now, after more than two decades in the U.S., the Vijayakumars are preparing to move back to India—this time, for a new chapter centered around long-term care and community for their son. They’ve found a residential model where adults with special needs live semi-independently alongside family members in a shared community setting. It’s the kind of opportunity they once crossed oceans to find.

As their departure nears, Vijayakumar reached out to WCC to say goodbye—but more importantly, to say thank you.

“I’m so glad I came across that Facebook post seven years ago that led me here,” she wrote. “Every puppy I’ve sat with has brought genuine happiness—and perhaps most movingly, they have understood my son better than many people do.”

Though leaving is bittersweet, she says her family will carry WCC—and the dogs who changed their lives—with them always.

“I feel truly honored to have been part of this compassionate and impactful organization,” Vijayakumar said. “I will miss it deeply, but I’ll be cheering WCC on from afar.”
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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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Cuddles, Cookies and a Great Human

Dear Friends,

Hi there! Mike here—your friendly neighborhood Warrior Canine Connection (WCC) Ambassador Dog and, if I may say so myself, a rather distinguished gentleman. At nearly 11 years old, I’ve been around the block a few times, met incredible humans and learned a thing or two about life. But today, I want to tell you about someone truly special — Dennis O’Rourke.

Now, I know what you’re thinking — dogs can’t write. And you’re mostly correct. This is actually a bark-to-text situation (shoutout to technology). But trust me, if I could type, this story would still be worth telling.

Enter Dennis O’Rourke. Dennis showed up at WCC a little over two years ago, and let’s just say, he wasn’t in the best shape when we first met. He had recently lost Sandy, his wife of 35 years, and on top of that, he was navigating the long-term effects of a stroke. You could see the weight of the world on his shoulders. But here’s the thing about Dennis — he’s an Army Veteran, and if there’s anything I’ve learned from my time with Warriors, it’s that they never quit.

Dennis served 14 years in the U.S. Army, traveling all over the world — Frankfurt, Germany; Korea; California. The Army even trained him at IBM, where he became a whiz with electronics and mechanics (which, unfortunately, does not include dog treat dispensers — missed opportunity, Dennis). After the Army, his career took him to all over the world, including Australia, Sweden and Denmark. Pretty impressive for a guy who now spends his Thursdays happily covered in dog hair.

When Dennis first started visiting, he was quiet, seemed a little unsure of himself and —between you and me — he didn’t smell like dog treats. But week after week, he kept showing up. And then one Thursday, something magical happened …

Dennis brought cookies.

Not just any cookies — the best cookies. The kind that make a dog sit a little straighter, wag a little harder and momentarily forget any shred of “professional training.” My fellow canines and I may or may not lose our collective minds when Dennis walks in. Katie Hearne calls us “slightly unprofessional,” but let’s be honest — when a man brings treats AND pets you just right, how are you supposed to keep your composure?

But Dennis isn’t just the treat guy. Nope. He’s so much more.

Dennis has this thing he does — it’s quiet, simple, but pure magic. He grooms me. And let me tell you, not all humans have the patience for my golden locks. He sits down, takes his time, and brushes me with the gentleness of a best friend who just gets you. It’s not just about looking good (though, let’s face it, I’m a handsome fella). It’s about feeling safe, loved and cared for.

And Dennis? He’s got this way about him. He doesn’t rush. He doesn’t expect anything in return. He just shows up — week after week, brush in hand, kindness in his heart.

Dennis may have come to WCC looking for healing, but somewhere along the way, he started helping us heal, too. He may not play favorites (or so he says), but between you and me, I know I’ve got a special place in his heart. And on Thursdays? He’s got a special place in mine.

So, this Valentine’s Day, I want to say something important:

Dennis, thank you.

Thank you for the cookies.
Thank you for the cuddles.
Thank you for the grooming sessions.
Thank you for showing up — for us, for yourself and for everyone who needs a little love.

I’ll be waiting by the gate this Thursday, Dennis — tail wagging, ready for treats and looking forward to our weekly cuddle session.

With love (and a little extra dog hair),
Mike 🐾

Paw-sitively Powerful: Volunteers at the Heart of WCC

At Warrior Canine Connection (WCC), volunteers are the heart and soul of our organization. Their dedication and selflessness are the driving force behind every success we achieve. As we celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Month this April, let’s take a moment to honor these incredible individuals who pour their hearts into supporting our mission of healing Service Members and Veterans through our Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) programs. Join us in expressing our deepest gratitude for their unwavering commitment and boundless compassion.

Here’s a snapshot of the impact volunteers made for WCC in 2023.

  • A total of 623 volunteers assisted WCC across 15 program sites.
  • 1,310 Veterans served through 10,077 hours of animal-assisted therapy, which more than doubled the hours of animal-assisted therapy provided to Veterans and their military family members from 2022.
  • Volunteers spent a total of 128,684 hours helping; volunteer roles include puppy parents, sitters, whelping, admin, facilities, and transportation.
  • Donated volunteer time totals to an estimated value of $3,964,951 (based on $31.80 per hour) to WCC.

We are also proud to share that WCC volunteers received 175 Presidential Service Awards for their commitment in 2023.

What motivates them? Here’s what our volunteers have shared with us about their reasons for supporting WCC.

“Volunteering is important to me because I know that there is a dog who depends on me to give her the best training and love, and in turn, I know there is a long list of people who I have never met, who depend on volunteers to help them pair with their future dog,” shared Ayden Naguib, WCC puppy raiser.

“Volunteering at WCC is important because it is a way for me to honor my daughter’s life of service and her sacrifice by helping to train amazing dogs for Veterans who need them,” said Doreen Cappelaere, Gold Star Mother and WCC puppy raiser & puppy sitter.

“We owe a debt to those who’ve faithfully served our country. Volunteering with WCC allows me to give back to our Veterans and their families and it also makes me happy!” said Lynn Manuel, WCC puppy raiser.

“Supporting my fellow Veterans has become even more important to me than my time in service. I see so many of my friends and family who are Veterans struggle, and I know there are millions of more Veterans who need help, and being able to train service dogs to help Veterans just makes such an impact,” shared Rob Morris, WCC puppy raiser.

“So many lives can be touched and affected positively by just one dog. I also have family that has served and is serving—this organization is hope,” said Renee Norman, WCC puppy sitter and whelping volunteer.

“I love the mission and dogs are the bestest,” shared Katherine Grady, WCC puppy raiser.

If you have loved your volunteer experience, please continue to share with friends and family and maybe invite one more to join our pack.

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Thank You, Volunteers!

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

Thank You, Volunteers!

This April, National Volunteer Month, we 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. We simply couldn’t do all that we do without volunteers.

Here’s how WCC volunteers made a difference in 2022.

A total of 536 volunteers assisted WCC for a record-breaking total of 102,939 hours across our 15 program sites. That massive volunteer manpower accounts 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 animal-assisted therapy.

WCC is also proud to share that its volunteers received 148 Maryland Governor Citations and 101 Presidential Service Awards for their efforts.

Thanks to these remarkable volunteers, we accomplished all this work (and more) in 2022. Already more than a quarter into 2023, our amazing volunteers are on-track to top these amazing numbers this year.

Are you interested in volunteering for WCC? Check out our current opportunities here.

Contact Us

14934 Schaeffer Road
Boyds, MD 20841

(T) 301.260.1111
info@warriorcanineconnection.org


Warrior Canine Connection
is a 501(c)(3)
Nonprofit Organization
# 45-2981579