Empowering Veterans, Transforming Lives
We know humans and canines must be able to understand each other in order for learning, growth, and companionship to occur. What many people interpret as problem behaviors are, in fact, dogs’ attempts at communication.
Mission Statement
Our mission is to unite like-minded organizations to enhance the quality of life for veterans by providing service dogs. We are dedicated to ensuring that the needs of veterans and their families remain central to our efforts, with their voices heard and respected throughout our work.
Vision Statement
We envision a future where every veteran in need has access to a well-trained service dog and where organizations collaborate seamlessly to provide holistic support, ensuring the well-being of veterans and their families. Through this unified effort, we aim to create a world where veterans and their service dogs thrive together, empowered by the advocacy and strength of community and compassion.
Values Statement
At the Veteran Service Dog Coalition, we are guided by the following core values:
- Collaboration We believe in the power of partnership and collective action, working together to achieve more for veterans and their families.
- Compassion We are driven by empathy and a deep commitment to improving the lives of veterans and their families, understanding their unique needs, and supporting their well-being.
- Integrity We act with honesty and transparency in all we do, building trust with veterans, families, and partner organizations.
- Respect We honor veterans’ experiences and sacrifices, ensuring their voices are valued and heard in every decision we make.
- Excellence We strive for the highest standards in service dog training and care, continuously improving our programs to better serve veterans.
- Advocacy We are dedicated to advocating for veterans rights and ensuring they receive the support they deserve, both through service dogs and beyond.
The Veteran Service Dog Coalition brings together organizations nationwide to support veterans and their families through service dogs, advocacy, education, and research.
Meet Our Leadership Team
We are a dedicated team of professionals committed to delivering excellence.
Deede Baker
Coalition Secretary
Mary Cortani
Coalition Chair
Nicole Lanhan
Coalition Treasurer
Empowering Veterans, Together
Discover how our coalition’s dedication, collaboration, and shared values create lasting impact for veterans and their families.
Our Core Commitments
Dedicated to empowering veterans and the organizations that serve them, every step of the way.
At the Veteran Service Dog Coalition, we are united by a shared mission to uplift veterans through the power of service dogs. Our core commitments, advocacy, education, research, and collaboration, guide everything we do. Discover how these pillars drive meaningful change for veterans, their families, and the organizations that support them.
Advocacy for Veterans
We champion the needs of veterans and service dog organizations, working to influence policy and improve access to essential resources.
Promote positive policy changes
Increase awareness nationwide
Support veterans rights
Education & Resources
We provide educational tools and resources to empower veterans, families, and organizations with the knowledge they need to thrive.
Access to expert insights
Workshops and training
Guidance for organizations
Research & Innovation
We support and share groundbreaking research on service dogs, veteran health, and best practices to advance the field.
Evidence-based solutions
Up-to-date studies
Informed program development
Collaboration & Support
We unite organizations, fostering a strong network that shares knowledge, offers guidance, and creates lasting partnerships.
Connect with like-minded groups
Share resources and ideas
Strengthen support systems
Join Our Mission
Support Veterans and Service Dogs