Rescue 22 Foundation, Inc

1.) To provide highly trained service and emotional support K9s to veterans with demonstrated need (as per licensed professional/VA disability rating);
2.) To provide linkages between participating R22 veterans that build a sense of community and lessen isolation frequently experienced by transitioning veterans and veterans with long term health challenges;
3.) Raise public awareness regarding the effective nature of service K9s and their role in reducing suicide rates in veteran populations and enhancing quality of life through day to day activities and
4.) Raise public awareness regarding service dogs that are effectively trained and valid tools regarding fraudulent service dogs and those entities that provide and produce such dogs.

RESCUE 22 STRATEGIES:
1.) Our co founders and trainers (John Devine and Erick Innis) provide direct quality assurance by either directly providing the K9 training or overseeing/certifying the training provided by carefully vetted R22 trainers;
2.) Reviewing veteran applications and ensuring that the correct K9 placement is made and that ongoing training support is provided over the lifetime of the veteran/K9 match;
3.) Provide public content regarding the training and placement of the R22 service K9s and
4.) Utilize our public platforms to engage the public in the valid and encouraging manner service dogs are having a positive impact in the veteran community and how we can work together to expand this reach.

RESCUE 22 STRENGTHS:
1.) A cadre of highly qualified trainers
2.) National reach with East and West coast campus locations
3.) A strategic plan for growth that includes stakeholders in communities where the concentration of veterans is highest
4.) A funding strategy that leverages individual, corporate and private grant funding with an eye towards a 5 year self sustaining plan.

Since our inception in 2018: R22 has:
*Provided 16 fully trained service and emotional support K9s in 2018;
*Placed K9s in 7 different states across the country;
*Started training for 6 medically complex/mobility assist cases;
*Significantly raised the awareness of the availability of our services nationwide and
*Engaged in educational forums regarding service dogs in the current climate.

NEXT STEPS:
*Continue to strategically expand the cadre of trainers approved by our lead/master level trainers;
*Slowly develop our footprint in veteran dense communities by developing networks and alliances for veteran support
*Focus on capacity building in communications, fundraising and board development
*Continue to improve our veteran wait list and on boarding process
*Expand social media presence for the purpose of public awareness and education.