366. That’s how many puppies Project 2 Heal has donated to service dog training organizations across the country. The Charlotte-based nonprofit breeds and raises Labrador Retrievers with the hope of increasing service dog availability for veterans and people living with special needs or disabilities.
“What makes Project 2 Heal so special is the ripple effect of its impact,” Marci Turso, Project 2 Heal’s Director of Operations, told CLTtoday. “Whether someone connects with our love for dogs, our mission to serve veterans, our advocacy for children with special needs or disability, or our support for adults striving to regain their independence, there’s something meaningful for everyone to believe in.”
Celebrating success
The organization is celebrating all those who’ve volunteered or helped with the pups by hosting Pints 4 Pups at Resident Culture Brewing in South End this Friday, May 16.
Tickets are sold out, but the organization is accepting donations.
Ways to get involved
While the fundraiser may be sold out, there are several ways to get involved with the organization, including:
- The Chaperone Program allows you to provide a permanent home for the breeding dogs + ownership is transferred to you after retirement.
- Volunteers in the Puppy Raising Program provide a temporary home to raise and socialize the puppies.
- Can’t commit to having a dog? Stress Down Days allow the puppies to visit offices across the Queen City, providing much-needed cuddles.
- Volunteer at various outreach events, through fundraising campaigns, and more.
“At the center of everything we do are our dogs,” said Turso. “We love and cherish them. But more than that, we respect them. We invest deeply in their success so that they can go on to change lives.”
