Issue link: https://www.cominghomemag.com/i/1376023
PINCH OF GOODNESS Patriot PAWS SERVICE DOGS How Associa and Patriot PAWS are building stronger, more accessible communities together. By Ashley Cantwell According to ShareAmerica, the U.S. Department of State's platform for communicating American foreign policy worldwide, there are approximately 500,000 service dogs helping people living with disabilities in the United States. These highly trained service animals make it possible for individuals to live independently and overcome day-to-day challenges. Patriot PAWS Service Dogs, a 501(c)(3) organization and accredited member of Assistance Dogs International (ADI), is one of the country's leading service dog training organizations. The impressive non-profit provides high-quality service dogs to disabled American Veterans and others with mobility disabilities—at no cost—to restore physical and emotional independence. In addition to placing service dogs with Veterans across the nation, Patriot PAWS organizes innovative volunteer programs that positively impact communities, college campuses, prisons, and other locations. "Patriot PAWS is proud to have a passionate following of community supporters that expand our cause," stated Lori Stevens, founder and executive director of Patriot PAWS. "Partners like Associa play a vital role in providing support, helping further our mission, and engaging the rest of the community in critical discussions about the important relationship between service animals and their handlers." Associa is grateful to work with the organization to advance its mission, help individuals with disabilities, and raise awareness about service animals in communities. To learn more about Patriot PAWS, visit www.patriotpaws.org. Images courtesy of Patriot PAWS. "He's my light when days are dark. He's my warmth and laughter when I just want to be numb. He's my steady pressure and my alarm when the nightmares are too much. He's my arms and my legs when mine hurt too much to use. He's my alert system so I don't get hurt. He's my responsibility and my motivation to try as hard as I can every single day." – Freedom Maria Green, Veteran, on her relationship with her Patriot PAWS Service Dog, Gus. 13