Our Mission
Paws-Ability, Inc. is committed to providing exceptional service dogs at no cost to Veterans, First Responders, and Correctional Officers who have selflessly served our country and communities. Our mission is to empower these courageous men and women living with Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and mobility impairments to regain confidence and dignity as they navigate their daily lives.
Our History
Founded in 2019, Paws-Ability is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization created by Jim Day, John Wells, and Natalie Faudree. Jim, a Vietnam Army veteran; John, a Vietnam Navy veteran; and Natalie, the wife of Marine Corps veteran Joseph Faudree, shared a vision: to transform the lives of Military Veterans, First Responders, and Correctional Officers by providing them with highly trained service dog companions.
At Paws-Ability, we unlock the incredible potential of dogs by transforming them into individually trained, life-changing companions for those in need. Many of our service dogs come from AKC-certified Labrador Retriever puppies or rescued dogs that have been carefully evaluated for suitability in service work. Through the dedication of volunteer trainers and foster families, these dogs are prepared to become confident, capable service animals. Each dog begins with basic training and earns the AKC “Canine Good Citizen” certification before moving on to advanced training with their matched partner to achieve full service dog certification.
Our Organization
Paws-Ability is led by a passionate team, many of whom have personally experienced the transformative impact of having a service dog. This firsthand understanding drives our commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those we serve.
Board of Directors:
- President & Treasurer: Jennifer Draggoo
- Vice President: Lakin Elzy
- Secretary: Natalie Manthey
- Board Member: Joe Faudree (Service Dog: Stewart)
- Board Member: Keith Auspland (Service Dog: Casey)
- Board Member: Corey Hunter (Service Dog: Freyja)
Together, our board works tirelessly to ensure Paws-Ability fulfills its mission to support and honor the sacrifices of Veterans, First Responders, and Correctional Officers by providing them with the life-changing companionship of a service dog. We are deeply grateful for the dedication of our team, trainers, fosters, and supporters who help us transform lives every day.