In the Spotlight: Robyn Staebler

Robyn Staebler became a Michigan Ambassador in 2021 after she attended a Celebrate Michigan’s Military event and heard recipient stories. “I knew immediately that Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs was an organization that I would be proud to represent. I also knew the first responder community needed to know this was an option for those that were disabled,” said Robyn.

Robyn’s “Why” for Working with Guardian Angels

Robyn, as the wife of a retired K-9 police officer, is passionate about supporting first responders. Her husband worked with five police K-9s throughout his career, which Robyn is grateful for. She said these dogs protected her husband and others in the field and even saved his life, providing comfort and friendship to them when off duty.

“The benefits of medical service dogs have always been near to my heart, and it brings me great joy to see the bond between a dog and its owner. Many individuals and families have been affected by PTSD, mental and physical disabilities, and suicide. Knowing that these amazing animals can help save lives gives me the inspiration to share Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs with everyone I know!” said Robyn.

What Robyn Wants You to Know About Guardian Angels

“This organization is full circle. They care about the smallest details of the dog and the recipients. At the farm, they raise quality pups and train them for the personal needs of the recipient,” said Robyn.

Guardian Angels has a 2-week on-site training for the recipient when they are paired with their new medical service dog, keeping in close contact with the recipient to ensure the dogs are healthy and the new relationship is beneficial and growing.

While doing all of this, Robyn said the organization also keeps them in tune with how their donations are impacting the lives of veterans, first responders, and individuals across the country.

How Robyn has been Personally Touched by Guardian Angels

“I never get tired of hearing stories of how these dogs have changed the lives of not only the recipients but the peace that they give the family members as well. They are truly guardian angels,” said Robyn.

Learn More About Our Amazing Team!

Check out our Team page to learn more about the many amazing members of our Guardian Angels team!

• About
• Latest Posts

Mary Jo Brandt

Mary Jo has an extensive history working with the media as well as a Bachelor of Science degree from the College of Engineering and Engineering Technology at Northern Illinois University. Mary Jo has worked for companies such as Gannett, News Bank Inc., E.W. Scripps Company, Lee Enterprises, Pulitzer, Inc., Arthur Andersen, and has been involved with Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. since 2011. Ms. Brandt has had many hours of training in leadership, coaching, and mentoring. Her teams have consistently been highly effective in support of organizational mission and goals. She has one son, Paul who is currently in the Navy, and a daughter, Amanda in college and working full-time for a law firm in Naples. Ms. Brandt began volunteering with Guardian Angels after both her father and previous employer received a Guardian Angels Service Dog in 2011. Seeing the incredible difference service dogs could make in the lives of their recipients, she became involved through volunteering her time & talent to Guardian Angels. Ms. Brandt was then asked to join the Board of Directors and has served as a Board Member since 2013. Recently, Mary Jo has been named as a 2021 Patriot Scholarship recipient from Colorado Technical University. When asked why this scholarship and completing her Master’s Degree in Business Administration was so important to her, she responded, “This scholarship represents how important education is to our military/veterans and their families. I am honored to be part of this unique community. I am already in a career that demonstrates my commitment to helping others, I expect finishing this degree will allow me to be much more effective in my pursuit of working with our Veterans. This scholarship isn’t just about me. It is about how I can help others.” Today we face an even bigger challenge that none of us saw coming during the midst of the pandemic and worldwide economic collapse beginning to unfold. Yet again, Mary Jo is stepping up to the plate to be sure that our organization continues to serve those that need us, as we triumph in the face of untold adversity of today’s world. Businesses will only survive these difficult times because of leaders like Mary Jo.

Latest posts by Mary Jo Brandt (see all)

• Celebrate Michigan’s Military: A Decade of Honoring our Heroes - March 4, 2024
• Celebrating Carol Borden’s 70th Birthday with a Special Cause - January 17, 2024
• The Mutt Strut Event Recap - October 3, 2023