PITTSBURGH, PA – On Saturday, May 17, 2025, Pittsburgh will gather for a night of storytelling, resilience, and community at An Evening of Inspiring Tales and Tails, an extraordinary celebration hosted by Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs to mark its 15th anniversary of changing lives through service dogs.
At the heart of this inspiring evening will be one of the most trusted and respected voices in the region: Bill Flanagan.
A Voice for the Region, A Voice for This Mission
Bill Flanagan, Special Advisor to the Allegheny Conference on Community Development and producer and host of WPXI’s “Our Region’s Business,” will serve as the evening’s emcee. A respected journalist, author, and long-time advocate for regional innovation and growth, Flanagan has dedicated his career to shining a light on the people and ideas shaping Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania.
With an unmatched ability to connect, inspire, and inform, Bill brings his signature insight to this meaningful cause—supporting our nation’s heroes through the life-changing work of service dogs.
As the emcee, Flanagan will guide attendees through a program filled with purpose, honoring the veterans, first responders, and individuals with disabilities who have reclaimed their independence through Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs.
Carol Borden on Bill Flanagan: A True Friend to Our Mission
“We are beyond honored to have Bill Flanagan join us as the emcee for our 15th anniversary celebration,” said Carol Borden, Founder and CEO of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs. “Bill has been a steadfast supporter of our mission, even welcoming us on his show Our Region’s Business to help spread the word about the life-saving work we do. His dedication to uplifting stories that matter—and to helping us bring awareness to the healing power of service dogs—means the world to us.”
Evening Highlights Include Medal of Honor Recipient and 9/11 Hero
While Flanagan leads the evening, guests will also be moved by powerful keynote speakers, including:
- Kyle Carpenter, Medal of Honor recipient, will share his journey of sacrifice, recovery, and living with purpose after using his body to shield a fellow Marine from a grenade.
- Jack Oehm, retired FDNY Battalion Commander and 9/11 First Responder, who lost more than 20 colleagues on September 11th and now speaks across the country on healing and resilience.
VIP guests and sponsors will have the opportunity to meet both speakers during the exclusive Pre-Event VIP Reception from 6:00 to 7:00 PM.
Proudly Sponsored by PNC Bank
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is proud to announce PNC Bank as the Premier Sponsor for this unforgettable evening. Their support exemplifies a strong commitment to honoring those who have served and sacrificed for our country. We are deeply grateful for their partnership in helping us make a profound impact in the lives of veterans, first responders, and individuals with disabilities.
Event Details
- The Event Center, Rivers Casino, Pittsburgh
- Saturday, May 17, 2025
- 6:00–7:00 PM: VIP Reception
- 6:30–10:00 PM: Dinner & Program
- Cocktail Attire
To attend, sponsor, or learn more, visit www.medicalservicedogs.org or contact Brian Delong at bdelong@medicalservicedogs.org.
Together, let’s celebrate the stories, the service, and the strength that make Pittsburgh—and our heroes—unforgettable.
Join Us Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Rivers Casino Pittsburgh for an Inspiring Night of Honor, Hope, and Healing
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs proudly announces its 15th Anniversary Celebration, an extraordinary evening dedicated to honoring the lives that have been transformed through the healing power of service dogs. This milestone event will occur on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Rivers Casino Pittsburgh, featuring an inspiring keynote address from Best-Selling Author and Medal of Honor recipient Kyle Carpenter. (more…)
PITTSBURGH, PA- March 18th, 2025– Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs (GAMSD) is honored to welcome Author, Medal of Honor recipient, and U.S. Marine veteran Kyle Carpenter as the keynote speaker for its 15th Anniversary Event, “Inspiring Tales & Tails,” taking place on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at The Event Center at Rivers Casino in Pittsburgh, PA. (more…)
New Partnership Brings Critical Mental Health and Wellness Resources to Veterans and Individuals Facing Trauma Nationwide
November 12, 2024 – Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, a pioneering leader in the service dog industry, has announced an innovative new partnership with mental health experts from One Brother One Sister to provide holistic support for veterans, first responders, and others needing advanced mental health resources. This strategic alliance brings together decades of specialized mental health expertise dedicated to supporting individuals coping with trauma, addiction, and mental health challenges alongside Guardian Angels’ acclaimed service dogs. Together, these organizations are set to profoundly impact mental health care, integrating emotional support with service dog assistance in unprecedented ways.
Since its founding nearly 15 years ago, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs has set a gold standard in the service dog industry. The organization has empowered countless recipients to regain independence, overcome traumatic experiences, and foster lasting personal growth. Guardian Angels’ success rates highlight this: recipients experience a zero suicide rate and an impressively low divorce rate of less than 3%. With the introduction of this partnership, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs takes an innovative step forward, adding a dedicated layer of mental health support to benefit its recipients and their families further.
Bringing Leading Mental Health Support to the Service Dog Industry
The partnership with One Brother One Sister introduces the expertise of three leading mental health professionals: Karyn Hurley, Scott Jones, and Joe Kelley. Collectively, these professionals offer deep expertise in trauma support, addiction recovery, and mental health counseling, backed by rigorous credentials, including accreditation from the Florida Certification Board and education provider status with NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals.
As advocates for trauma recovery and mental wellness, Hurley, Jones, and Kelley are passionate about providing educational resources, ongoing training, and critical assistance to recipients at no cost. “Our work is driven by a vision of a world where trauma and mental health struggles are recognized, understood, and effectively treated,” said Karyn Hurley, Co-Founder of One Brother One Sister. “By partnering with Guardian Angels, we’re bridging a significant gap in holistic care, offering a foundation of mental health support that complements the life-changing work these extraordinary service dogs provide.”
A Perfect Match: Guardian Angels and One Brother One Sister
This collaboration addresses a vital need within the service dog community: long-term mental health resources for those who have often experienced significant trauma. Through this alliance, Guardian Angels recipients now have access to specialized support, including counseling, mental health resources, and resilience-building techniques. This holistic approach aligns perfectly with Guardian Angels’ mission to empower individuals and enrich lives, creating an environment of safety and support for recipients and their families.
One Brother One Sister’s co-founders recognized the immense value Guardian Angels brings to communities nationwide. Joe Kelley, First Responder Wellness Liaison at One Brother One Sister, shared, “Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is already making a profound impact on mental well-being through their expertly trained service dogs. This partnership further supports these remarkable recipients, blending our expertise with theirs to drive industry-wide change.”
Industry-Leading Results and a New Milestone for Service Dog Programs
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs and One Brother One Sister are determined to set a new benchmark in the service dog industry. This partnership aims to validate further the extraordinary capabilities of service dogs, whose dedication transforms lives daily, and to highlight the critical role that ongoing mental health support plays in recovery and resilience.
“We are proud to be at the forefront of integrating specialized mental health resources into our service dog programs,” said Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs spokesperson. “The work of our service dogs is remarkable, and by collaborating with One Brother One Sister, we are elevating the quality of care for our recipients and advocating for greater respect and clarity for this industry.”
About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs
Since its inception, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. has served veterans, first responders, and individuals facing trauma. The organization’s highly trained service dogs are paired with recipients to address various needs, including mobility assistance, seizure alert, and emotional support. Guardian Angels is committed to continually advancing the service dog industry through innovative approaches, training programs, and partnerships that enhance the quality of life for their recipients.
For More Information
For more information on Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs and its collaboration with One Brother One Sister, please visit medicalservicedogs.org or 1brother1sister.com.
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs Announces Anonymous Donor Sponsorship for Annual Mutt Strut and AKC Fit Dog Walk – Free Tickets for One Day Only.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Pittsburgh, PA – October 3, 2024—Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is excited to announce that an anonymous donor has generously pledged to cover the cost of event tickets for one day only for the upcoming Annual Mutt Strut and AKC Fit Dog Walk, taking place on October 4, 2024. Thanks to this amazing gesture, all attendees can join the event at no cost for this limited time if they register by midnight on October 4th, 2024.
The Annual Mutt Strut will be held at the Great Lawn on the North Shore, providing a scenic and welcoming space for pet lovers and their four-legged friends. Additionally, free parking will be available for the first 200 attendees in Gold Lot 2. Event registration begins at 11:00 AM, and the lot opens for attendees at 10:30 AM.
Celebrating over 10 years, the Mutt Strut has grown to become one of Pittsburgh’s most beloved annual events, with strong support from prominent sponsors such as PNC Bank, United Rentals, Lamar, The Pittsburgh Pirates, Higher Images, and Bully Max, among others. Each year, the event brings together Veterans, First Responders, their families, pets, and the community for a day of fun and fundraising in support of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs.
This year’s event will also feature the AKC Fit Dog Walk, a scenic walk along the Riverfront Park and Monongahela River. Participants will stroll from the event’s entrance, following the river to PNC Park and back, creating a beautiful backdrop for dog lovers.
In addition to the walk, attendees will enjoy:
- Service Dog Demonstrations: Witness these highly trained medical service dogs’ incredible abilities and learn how they improve the lives of those with disabilities.
- Pet & Owner Costume Contest: Bring your creativity and compete in the contest for best-dressed pairs! The contest will announce the winners of the YaJagoff Dog and the Top 3 Prizes for best costumes.
- Pet Dog Tricks: Relax and enjoy the show with some of the area’s most talented dog trainers and their four-legged friends as they show off their talents!
- LocalPet Related Vendors and the PNC Grow Up Great Tent will be on-site to provide activities for kids and raise funds and awareness about the life-changing impact of Medical Service Dogs.
- Auction Baskets and 50/50 Raffle: Bid on unique gifts from the local area, including signed Pittsburgh Pirates, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Pittsburgh Steelers Autographed Memorabilia.
Chad Tyson from WDVE will host the event as the Master of Ceremony, and DJ Adam Powerbomb will provide music throughout the day. The Pet Costume Contest will be co-hosted by John Chamberlain and Rachael Rennebeck from YaJagoff (KDKA), alongside Daisy Jade from Pittsburgh Today Live and On Air Kristen from Q92.9.
“We are incredibly thankful for our anonymous donor’s generosity, which will allow us to make this event accessible to even more people for one day,” said Mary Jo Brandt from Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs. “This is a fantastic opportunity for the community to come together and support our mission while enjoying a day of fun activities with their pets.”
Event Details:
- Date: October 5, 2024
- Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Location: The Great Lawn on the North Shore, Pittsburgh, PA
- Parking: Free for the first 200 attendees in Gold Lot 1 – Lot opens at 10:30 AM
Join us for a fun-filled day while supporting a worthy cause! Thanks to the anonymous donation, tickets are free for one day only, so don’t miss this chance to be part of this amazing fundraiser and community event.
About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs:
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that rescues, raises and trains highly skilled medical service dogs for veterans, first responders, and civilians in need. Since 2010, they have paired over 400 medical service dogs with deserving recipients, helping them regain independence and improve their quality of life.
For more information about the event, to register for free tickets, or how to support Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, please visit www.themuttstrut.org or contact Brian DeLong at bdelong@medicalservicedog.org
Media Contact:
Linda Jo Thornberg
Public Relations
412-203-1996
lindajo@medicalservicedogs.org
- Furthering Defender brand’s commitment to aiding and honoring organizations who serve their communities, Defender is proud to announce the 25 finalists across 5 categories for the 2024 Defender Service Awards presented by CHASE
- CHASE, the presenting sponsor, is donating $5,000 to each of the 25 category finalists to expand their mission
- Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs of Williston, Florida, has been selected as a finalist in the category Veteran & Civil Servant Outreach – Presented by Hearts & Science.
- The public can cast their votes for their favorite charitable organizations from October 2nd, 2024, through October 17th, 2024, generating the ultimate category winners
- Based on the public vote, each category winner will be awarded a new Defender 130 vehicle that will be customized to align with their mission of service
- Category sponsors, including Hearts and Science, PELICAN, OUTSIDE Interactive inc., ei3 and Disney will award $25,000 to each category winner
- The winners of the 2024 Defender Service Awards presented by CHASE will be announced at Destination Defender on November 23, 2024, at Calamigos Ranch in Malibu, California.
- For information and rules1,2 on the Defender Service Awards presented by CHASE visit www.landroverusa.com / www.landrover.ca
Mahwah, NJ – October 2, 2024: Today, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs was announced as a finalist in the Veteran & Civil Servant Outreach category presented by Hearts & Science.
in the fourth annual ‘Defender Services Awards’ presented by CHASE. The awards showcase the British adventure brand’s longstanding commitment to aiding and honoring organizations who serve their communities. Each of the 25 U.S. non-profit and Canadian registered charities across five categories reflect the Defender brand’s enduring commitment to bringing positive impact to communities through acts of service and humanitarian efforts around the world.
Public voting, which will take place from October 2nd, 2024, through October 17th, 2024, will ultimately decide the winning organizations for each category. The winning organizations will each receive a new Defender 130 vehicle that will be fully customized to best address their needs, and awarded $25,000 by their category sponsor, empowering them to further their missions.
Built for purpose. The Defender 130 is equipped with three rows of seating for up to eight volunteers and ample space with 88.9 cubic feet (2,516 liters) of load capacity to enhance each charities’ efforts. The winning organization will be able to customize their vehicle with robust Defender accessories that will meet the challenges of their mission, along with a custom exterior vehicle wrap.
Corporate partners have joined this initiative to provide further support for the respective organizations across the different categories. CHASE, as presenting sponsor, will donate $5,000 to each of the five finalists per category, for a total of $150,000 across 30 finalists. A new premier partner, S&P Global has joined as a sponsor of the awards program. Category sponsors include OUTSIDE Interactive Inc., ei3, PELICAN, Hearts & Sciences and Disney. Each category sponsor will also donate $25,000 to its respective category winner.
Sam Allen, Defender U.S. Brand Director, said: “Each year we are incredibly inspired by the video submissions for the Defender Service Awards from organizations throughout North America and their tireless acts of service for their communities. This initiative is a reflection on the Defender brand’s commitment to supporting and furthering humanitarian efforts across the globe.”
A sixth category, Defender Service Honorees, is designed for past 2021-2023 finalists who have been given a second chance to win a custom Defender 130 vehicle. These worthy organizations did not win their category, however their continued support of their communities and need for a capable vehicle warrants a second chance.
Public voting will take place from October 2nd, 2024, through October 17th, 2024, to determine the ultimate winners of the six categories of the 2024 Defender Service Awards. To view the finalist videos and vote, please visit Defender Service Awards at https://www.landroverusa.com/experiences/events-and-sponsorships/defender-service-awards/index.html
The winning organization from each of the six categories will be announced at this year’s Destination Defender event. Encouraging participants to embrace the impossible, the weekend celebration will take place from November 22-24, 2024, at Calamigos Ranch in Malibu, California, and will feature Defender experiences that channel the adventurous spirit of the brand. A special evening celebration on November 23rd will be held to announce the six winning organizations.
The Defender family of models, 90, 110, 130, continues to expand and evolve to suit the many uses by their owners. Defender OCTA, the new high‑performance hero will be available in North America for the 2025 model year. Featuring a V8 Twin Turbo, producing 636hp, 6D Dynamics Air Suspension, and active exhaust system, Defender OCTA will offer an unparalleled breadth of capability, comfort and composure, whether on‑road or off‑road. New for 2025 model year, optional second‑row Captain Chairs are available in the Defender 130 to provide comfort and luxury with aisle access to the spacious third row.
To learn more about the 2024 Defender Service Awards, please visit https://www.landroverusa.com/experiences/events‑and‑sponsorships/defender‑service‑awards/index.html
- ABBREVIATED RULES. NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. Begins on June 17, 2024, to Oct 17, 2024. TO ENTER MUST BE 18 YEARS OR OLDER IN THE 50 UNITED STATES AND D.C., PUERTO RICO, OR CANADA, AN ELIGIBLE CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION, AND HAVE AT LEAST ONE DIRECTOR THAT IS 18 YEARS OR OLDER RESIDING IN THE 50 UNITED STATES AND D.C., PUERTO RICO, OR CANADA. Contest is void where prohibited by law. Contest subject to the complete Official Rules. Visit www.landroverusa.com/experiences/events‑and‑sponsorships/defender‑service‑awards/index.html or www.landrover.ca/en/experiences/sponsorship/defender‑service‑awards/index.html for Official Rules and prize descriptions. Sponsor: Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC, 100 Jaguar Land Rover Way, Mahwah, NJ 07495.
- Information and rules on the ‘Defender Service Awards’ presented by Chase can be found here, and Canadian rules can be found here.
ENDS
About the Defender Brand
Defender embraces the impossible. Each member of the Defender family is purposefully designed, highly desirable and seriously durable. A modern-day hero that respects the past but at the same time anticipates the future.
Available in 90, 110 and 130 body styles, with up to eight seats, each has a charisma of its own.
A beacon of liberty since 1948, Defender supports humanitarian and conservation work with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the Tusk Trust.
The Defender brand is underpinned by Land Rover – a mark of trust built on 75 years of expertise in technology and off-road capability.
Defender vehicles are designed and engineered in the UK and sold in 121 countries. It belongs to the JLR house of brands alongside Range Rover, Discovery and Jaguar.
Important notice
JLR is constantly seeking ways to improve the specification, design and production of its vehicles, parts and accessories and alterations take place continually. Whilst every effort is made to produce up-to-date literature, this document should not be regarded as an infallible guide to current specifications or availability, nor does it constitute an offer for the sale of any particular vehicle, part or accessory.
Further Information
Joe Stauble
PR Manager JLR North America
T: 201.818.8127
Jstauble@jaguarlandrover.com
Jeff Ehoodin
Land Rover PR Senior Specialist
T: 201.906.7818
Jehoodin@jaguarlandrover.com
Media website: https://media.landrover.com/
Social Channels:
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@defender
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Defender
Twitter/X: https://x.com/Defender
Instagram:http://instagram.com/defender
YouTube:http://www.youtube.com/LandRover
About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a nonprofit organization dedicated to training and donating highly skilled medical service dogs for individuals living with disabilities, with a focus on U.S. military veterans and first responders. With an emphasis on enhancing the lives and independence of their recipients, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs has successfully paired hundreds of dogs with deserving individuals, making a positive impact on families and communities across the nation.
Mary Jo Brandt
COO
T: 800.398.6102
mj@medicalservicedogs.org
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs has always believed in the power of the human-canine bond. Our medical service dogs provide life-changing and even life-saving tasks that allow a person with a disability to lead a more normal life. Our new partners, Bully Max, and the Pittsburgh Pirates, share this belief as we team up to bring Pup Nights to PNC Park, a fun-filled experience for dog owners and baseball fans alike. (more…)
Warren, MI — Michigan’s military community and its distinguished supporters will gather for a landmark evening of celebration and purpose at the 10th Annual “Celebrate Michigan’s Military” Event. Taking place on June 6th, 2024, at the renowned Andiamos Banquet Center in Warren, this extraordinary event marks a decade of dedication to the courageous men and women who have gallantly defended our country’s freedoms.
With a commitment to service that shines as brightly as the stars on a June night, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is proud to host this semi-formal occasion. The mission of this year’s event continues to be unwavering: to honor the sacrifices of our beloved veterans and support those in need with the assistance of a trained medical service dog at no cost.
For nine successful years, Mary Lamparter, a resident of Grosse Pointe and the creator of this event, has made it an annual cornerstone of gratitude and giving. Together, the community has raised over $1,000,000 to support Guardian Angels’ admirable cause. All the proceeds directly contribute to the organization’s pivotal efforts — providing no-cost, highly trained service dogs to veterans in need. Deemed essential by the heroes themselves, these remarkable canines offer much more than mere service; they are trained to alert to the medical conditions of their recipients and assist them with tasks they can no longer do themselves.
The evening’s program is designed to touch hearts and inspire generosity. As the sun sets on the horizon, the celebration will commence with an exquisite cocktail reception, setting the stage for a night of profound speakers and celebration of our honored guests and the heroes among us. Afterward, guests will indulge in a delightful dinner buffet accompanied by a night of exclusive raffle opportunities. These raffles will feature a diverse selection of auction items generously donated by our sponsors and community partners, adding an extra touch of excitement for attendees.
As the evening progresses, the event will play host to notable and distinguished guests, including the remarkable veterans alongside their service dogs. Their testimonies of bravery and recovery highlight the indelible impact that donations and sponsorship have had on their lives.
In the spirit of gratitude and honor, Carol Borden, the Founder and CEO of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, remarked, “This event is not just a celebration, but a mission to change lives, and the support we receive each year truly humbles us. It ignites our commitment to continue the unwavering support of our nation’s heroes. We sincerely appreciate Mary’s unwavering dedication to our organization and her invaluable contributions to the success of this extraordinary event. Her tireless efforts have not gone unnoticed, and we are incredibly grateful for her hard work.”
Mary Lamparter, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs Regional Coordinator, Michigan echoes this sentiment, stating, “Over the past nine years, I have been humbled by the tremendous support of our local community, including our defense and military organizations… Creating Celebrate Michigan’s Military has been extremely rewarding, and I have been honored to represent Guardian Angels and promote their dedication to serving our Nation’s Heroes.”
More than a milestone, the 10th Annual “Celebrate Michigan’s Military” Event encapsulates shared values and a collective spirit. The dedication of this evening’s participants has made a genuine difference, offering hope where it is much needed and deserved.
We invite the community to join us in attendance at this memorable event. Come prepared to bid generously in the raffle, as every dollar contributes to a brighter future for our Veterans.
Guests are requested to dress to impress in semi-formal attire, with a touch of patriotic flair in red, white, and blue, to honor our military heritage. For those unable to attend but wishing to make a difference, donations can be made directly to the event to help reach a fundraising goal of $300,000.
On behalf of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, we extend our sincere appreciation to our loyal supporters and dedicated sponsors for the past nine years. Your unwavering commitment propels us forward in our mission to deliver highly trained medical service dogs to those who have served and sacrificed.
For more event details, sponsor information, and to purchase tickets, please visit the official events page. Spread the word, extend the invite, and together, we can make the 10th Annual “Celebrate Michigan’s Military” Event our most unforgettable and impactful yet!
Mary Jo Brandt, COO of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs recognized as a Diversity Game Changer by the Orlando Magic Basketball Team
Orlando, FL – November 30, 2023 – Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is pleased to acknowledge Mary Jo Brandt, Chief Operating Officer, as the distinguished recipient of the Orlando Magic Diversity Game Changer of the Week award. This esteemed recognition highlights Brandt’s unwavering commitment to promoting social justice and equality within our community.
The Magic Diversity Game Changers program acknowledges local leaders who strive relentlessly to effect sustainable change and enhance the lives of residents in Orlando. For each game, one individual is honored, and this week, Mary Jo Brandt was selected for her exceptional contributions to both the service dog industry and our community.
Some notable achievements of Mary Jo as a Diversity Game Changer include:
- Successfully placing individuals with service dogs to foster enduring partnerships
- Demonstrating unwavering dedication to the mission and goals of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs
- Providing hands-on support to partner families, establishing robust support systems
- Advocating for diversity and inclusion within the service dog industry and the wider community
Carol Borden, the CEO of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, shared her excitement about Brandt’s well-deserved recognition. Borden stated, “Mary Jo Brandt, our exceptional COO, is truly revolutionizing the service dog industry. Her strategic placements and unwavering commitment to our mission have earned her the esteemed title of Orlando Magic Diversity Game Changer of the Week. We are extremely proud to have her as a part of our team.”
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is proud to celebrate the invaluable work of Mary Jo Brandt, shining a spotlight on her dedication and the profound impact she has made on countless lives.
For more information about the Orlando Magic Diversity Game Changers program and Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, please visit OrlandoMagic.com and MedicalServiceDogs.org.
About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a nonprofit organization dedicated to training and donating highly skilled medical service dogs for individuals living with disabilities, with a focus on U.S. military veterans and first responders. With an emphasis on enhancing the lives and independence of their recipients, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs has successfully paired hundreds of dogs with deserving individuals, making a positive impact on families and communities across the nation.
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs Joins Prestigious Congressional Initiative to Advance the Medical Service Dog Industry
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs has been selected as one of the two dozen medical service dog organizations nationwide to participate in a special initiative mandated by Congress. The primary objective of this program is to determine if the in-depth details outlined in this initiative for training and pairing service dogs meet the needs of permanently disabled service members and veterans.
This initiative, directed by Danny Benbassat, Ph.D., Commander, U.S. Public Health Service, CofS, Assistant Professor, Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, and managed by the Medical Technology Enterprise Consortium OTA and acting Wounded Warrior Service Dog Program integrator Jeremy Ramirez, DrPH, MPH, Veteran, US Army, Assistant Professor of Health Informatics, California State University Long Beach Department of Health Care Administration, was created to maintain safety measures to protect service dogs and the public while using data-driven decisions to ensure continued improvement within one of the most vulnerable communities these organizations serve.
As a leading medical service dog organization with highly advanced programs and over a decade of experience, Guardian Angel Medical Service Dogs will work with other organizations like themselves to collect and share their best practices, which will then be used to refine and improve the prototype guidelines for future organizations when it comes time to train and pair assistance/service dogs with qualified service members and veterans.
“Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is proud to have been selected for this crucial project. They have been a highly sophisticated leader in this industry for nearly 14 years, bringing forth many programs above and beyond the current industry standards, thus raising the bar of excellence with our milestones and benchmarks,” said Carol Borden, Founder and CEO of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs.
The current “prototype guidelines” will be tested by the Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs and other selected organizations where they can share best practices to refine existing guidelines, which will allow them to improve service dog programs. This initiative will evaluate the effectiveness of the suggested guidelines while examining a range of issues affecting service members and veterans with service dogs and those who train service dogs.
Once each organization has gathered empirical data on each of the protocols in this program, they will participate in focus group meetings for further discussion and analysis that will help build future guidelines and best practices related to the quality-of-service dog training, the optimal education and matching of service dogs with service members and veterans, and the safety to canines, service members, and the public.
“Our goal is to further shape the future of this life-changing, life-saving industry that deserves much more clarity and respect for the work these amazing dogs do every day. With this valuable opportunity to assist Congress, we will accomplish another enormous milestone in moving the service dog industry forward,” said Borden.
When the study concludes, the findings will be presented to Congress. Currently, it can take 2-10 years for someone to get a service dog. With the additional funding, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs will be able to hire more people and enlarge their facilities, which means they will be able to pair more dogs more quickly with veterans and service members in need.
To learn more about Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, visit https://www.medicalservicedogs.org/.
About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a nonprofit organization dedicated to training and donating highly skilled medical service dogs for individuals living with disabilities, with a focus on U.S. military veterans and first responders. With an emphasis on enhancing the lives and independence of their recipients, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs has successfully paired hundreds of dogs with deserving individuals, making a positive impact on families and communities across the nation.
[PITTSBURGH, PA] – Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs has announced they are breaking ground on their Pennsylvania Campus. This campus will bring the organization’s mission to help those with permanent disabilities to the northeast region of the United States.
The new state-of-the-art campus will cover 102 acres, with one hundred acres in Washington County, McDonald, and two in Allegheny County. It will be located twenty minutes from downtown Pittsburgh, ten minutes from the airport, and run along the Montour Trail. (more…)
PNC Bank, Pittsburgh Pirates Unite for the Annual Community Mutt Strut Benefiting Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs
[PITTSBURGH Aug. 08, 2023] — Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs announced the Annual Community Mutt Strut, presented by PNC Bank and sponsored by the Pittsburgh Pirates, will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16 at the Great Lawn on the North Shore. This event brings together dog lovers, supporters and community members for a day of fun, entertainment and education in support of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs and its life-changing work.
The Community Mutt Strut aims to raise awareness about the impact of medical service dogs in the lives of those living with disabilities, with a focus on U.S. military veterans and first responders.
This year’s event will feature a scenic dog-friendly walk, pet dog trick demonstrations, a dog costume contest, pet-related vendors, live music by local Southern classic rock band Shady Mugs, food trucks and activities for the whole family.
“We’re thrilled to once again host the Community Mutt Strut, and we’re especially grateful for the support of PNC Bank and the Pittsburgh Pirates, who share our dedication to improving the lives of those in need through the unique bond between humans and canines,” said Carol Borden, founder and CEO of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs.
Statistics show approximately 22 military veterans die by suicide each day, and the COVID-19 pandemic only heightened this crisis. Once paired with a Guardian Angels Medical Service Dog, the suicide rate in recipients drops to zero.
“PNC is honored to once again join forces with Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs for this meaningful event,” said Stacy Juchno, general auditor for PNC. “We’ve seen firsthand how this work changes lives as many of our employees and those in our communities have benefited from pairing with medical service dogs. We look forward to ushering in the next chapter of the Community Mutt Strut in Pittsburgh with terrific organizations like the Pirates.”
As part of the Pirates’ sponsorship, the Pirates are offering a group ticket option for that evening’s game that includes Loaded Value and a donation to Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs. The Pirates play the New York Yankees at 6:35 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 16. All are welcome to purchase tickets, whether or not they are attending the Community Mutt Strut.
“The Pirates are continually committed to making a lasting, positive impact to individuals in our community, and we’re proud to do that by joining our partner, PNC Bank, in support of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs for such a worthwhile event,” said Travis Williams, president of the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization that has been training and pairing medical service dogs with individuals in need since 2010. These highly skilled dogs are trained to mitigate the challenges of an individual’s disabilities while providing companionship and support, helping them regain their independence and enhance their quality of life.
Participants and supporters of the Community Mutt Strut can register online at www.medicalservicedogs.org or in-person on the day of the event. All proceeds will benefit Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs and its ongoing mission to train and provide medical service dogs to those in need.
For more information about Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs and the Community Mutt Strut, including the online silent auction taking place from Sept. 13-16, please visit the Community Mutt Strut website or the Facebook event page.
About the Pittsburgh Pirates
Now in their 137th National League season, and 141st overall, the Pittsburgh Pirates have a lasting and deep commitment to the Pittsburgh region that continues to grow stronger each season. The Pirates celebrate a rich history filled with five World Series Championships, legendary players and some of baseball’s most dramatic games and moments. The Pirates continue to build upon that rich history with an exciting, young team playing its home games at PNC Park, widely considered the Best Ballpark in America. While the organization has led countless community endeavors since its inception, the Pirates formed Pirates Charities in 2006 to make an even deeper, positive impact on the lives of others.
About PNC Bank
PNC Bank, National Association, is a member of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE: PNC). PNC is one of the largest diversified financial services institutions in the United States, organized around its customers and communities for strong relationships and local delivery of retail and business banking including a full range of lending products; specialized services for corporations and government entities, including corporate banking, real estate finance and asset-based lending; wealth management and asset management. For information about PNC, visit www.pnc.com
About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a nonprofit organization dedicated to training and providing medical service dogs for individuals living with disabilities, with a focus on U.S. military veterans and first responders. With an emphasis on enhancing the lives and independence of their recipients, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs has successfully paired hundreds of dogs with deserving individuals, making a positive impact on families and communities across the nation.
Funds to benefit Michigan Veterans living with Permanent Disabilities
Jackson, MI (EIN Presswire): Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is honored to have received a grant in the amount of $10,000 from the Consumers Energy Foundation.
This grant will assist Guardian Angels in training, donating, and supporting our veteran recipients in the State of Michigan. The funds will help to cover the costs to raise and train medical service dogs for veterans with visible and invisible disabilities.
“Veterans are an asset to our communities and our company, and we worked closely with our Veterans Advisory Panel employee resource group to support the important work Guardian Angels does in our communities.” said Carolyn Bloodworth, secretary/treasurer of the Consumers Energy Foundation. “We are proud to support our local heroes through this grant.”
When asked to comment on the grant award, Carol Borden, Founder and CEO of Guardian Angels said “We are honored that we’ve been selected for support by Consumers Energy Foundation. With several paired teams already in Michigan, and several more applicants already on our waiting list, this grant will be of great assistance in serving Michigan’s veterans in need.
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About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization based in Williston, Florida and has grown into a nation-wide medical service dog organization. The organization rescues, raises, trains and then donates individually trained medical service dogs to veterans, first responders and others who suffer from disabilities including PTS, Traumatic Brain Injury, diabetic and seizure disorders, mobility issues and more. Since their inception in 2010, Guardian Angels has donated and paired hundreds of individually trained medical service dogs with those in need, in more than 30 states across the nation. For more information, visit: MedicalServiceDogs.org
About Consumers Energy Foundation:
The Consumers Energy Foundation is the charitable arm of Consumers Energy, Michigan’s largest energy provider. The Foundation enables communities to thrive and grow by investing in what’s most important to Michigan – its people, our planet and Michigan’s prosperity. In 2021, the Consumers Energy Foundation, Consumers Energy, its employees, and retirees contributed more than $17.5 million to Michigan nonprofits. For more information, visit ConsumersEnergy.com/foundation
U.S. Secretary of Labor Martin J. Walsh recognized Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs as one of the 835 recipients of the 2022 HIRE Vets Medallion Award during a virtual award ceremony presented by the U.S. Department of Labor. Guardian Angels is one of only 19 Platinum awardees in the State of Florida, and one of only 66 Florida companies to receive a HIRE VETS award of any level from the Department of Labor.
The Honoring Investments in Recruiting and Employing American Military Veterans Act (HIRE Vets Act) Medallion Program is the only federal award program that recognizes employers who successfully recruit, hire, and retain veterans.
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs Founder and CEO, Carol Borden stated: “At Guardian Angels, it is not only our mission to serve our veterans with disabilities, but to hire and train veterans for civilian career paths as well. Our veterans have given so much of themselves to serve our country and all of us. I believe, it is now our responsibility as Americans to do whatever possible to assist them in their transition from military to civilian life”.
Guardian Angels is honored to join 835 other companies from 49 states, plus the District of Columbia, who have shown a commitment to hiring veterans, but also ensuring that they have a long-term career and growth plan that uses the diverse skills they acquired through their military service.
Recipients of the 2022 HIRE Vets Medallion Award meet rigorous employment and veteran integration assistance criteria, including veteran hiring and retention percentages; availability of veteran-specific resources; leadership programming for veterans; dedicated human resource efforts; pay compensation and tuition assistance programs for veterans. More than 1,400 employers have earned a HIRE Vets Medallion Award since 2018.
About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs:
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a 501(C)3 Based in Florida that rescues, raises, trains and then donates individually trained medical service dogs to veterans, first-responders and others who suffer from disabilities including PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, seizure and diabetic disorders, mobility issues and much more. Over the past 12 years, Guardian Angels has paired hundreds of individually trained medical service dogs with recipients across the nation, and with your help, that number can continue to grow. Visit our website at: www.MedicalServiceDogs.org to get involved or learn more.
Pittsburgh, PA November 21, 2023: Chris Ann Phillips, Chief Administrative officer of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs has been awarded the Pittsburgh Veteran of the Year by veteran-owned Military Friendly® in a contest sponsored by Fort Pitt Capital Group.
Phillips was chosen from among six outstanding veterans through public online voting. Those candidates included another Guardian Angels’ staff member, Mr. Jack Wagner.
Chris Ann’s story will be highlighted in the April 2023 issue of G.I. Jobs Magazine, which is distributed free to transitioning service members and veterans worldwide.
Chris Ann has been deeply involved in the veteran community for more than 20 years. Before joining Guardian Angels, Chris Ann established the military recruiting program for PNC Bank, and was the lead in creating the Community Mutt Strut. Chris Ann has served as a mentor for American Corporate Partners, and a recipient of the ESGR Patriot Award. She was a two-time finalist for the UA Chamber of Commerce’s Colonel Michael Endres Leadership Award and serves as the Director of Development for Pittsburgh Warrior Hockey.
Notified about the award, Chris Ann said: “I am honored to receive this award on behalf of all of us that serve our nation’s veterans. It is a privilege to be the voice of those in the veteran community, no matter the need. In my role at Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, I am blessed to be part of a mission that truly saves lives. My work is not done and as long as one veteran is in need, I will continue to serve”.
Phillips served in the United States Marine Corps from 1981 to 1985, separating as a Sergeant.
Military Friendly will present the award to Chris Ann at this year’s Gala of Angels, a fundraising event to be held on December 7 in Pittsburgh.
