The program successfully matched children with service dogs, as evidenced by individual stories like Keelyn’s, a child on the autism spectrum who became more social and confident after receiving her dog, Oaken. Despite initial challenges in meeting the grant’s geographical criteria, such as families moving or being unable to attend training, the program adapted. Solutions included extending the grant timeline and including facility dogs. All grant funds were utilized by November 2023.

The program adhered to budget projections and included community involvement through volunteer-provided lunches during training sessions. The public’s response to the program and its graduates has been overwhelmingly positive, fostering social inclusion and curiosity about the service dogs. Canine Companions continues to rely on private funding to provide their services at no cost to clients, making the grant from the Rancho Santa Fe Women’s Fund especially impactful.

Canine Companions plans to continue their quarterly Team Training sessions, annually matching 60-65 clients with service dogs. The training format will remain flexible, dividing clients into groups with similar needs to enhance the learning experience. The organization looks forward to celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025 and remains committed to providing highly trained service dogs at no cost, supported by ongoing relationships with donors like the Rancho Santa Fe Women’s Fund. The organization is prepared to continue this mission for the next fifty years, driven by its core values and community support.

*NOTE: This grant was originally given in May 2022, to be used by May 2023. Due to extenuating circumstances, they requested and were granted a time extension for a portion of the funds. The majority of the funds were used during the appropriate Grant Season.