Click here to learn more about becoming a puppy raiser and supporting Team Foster's mission in providing service dogs to injured and disabled Veterans. sit, stay, say goodbye In the year since Pat and Jane Hipsley brought home Pogo, they’ve spent hours teaching the Labrador puppy how to walk by their side and ignore cooing strangers; how to roll, retrieve her leash and ride an escalator. They’ve learned that Pogo is not a fan of tight spaces, and that her favorite snack is a carrot. Every night, Pogo has fallen asleep at the foot of their bed. Each morning, she has greeted them with a wagging tail. And in a few weeks, as with 17 other puppies that came before her, the Hipsleys will say a tearful goodbye to Pogo, maybe forever. In the world of service dogs, the Hipsleys are known as “puppy raisers,” volunteers who house, socialize and transport puppies to and from weekly classes from their first weeks until they’re ready for formal training, at around 18 to 24 months. The work is done to benefit a stranger, someone who will rely on the dog to treat a disability or live more independently. While service dogs were once mainly used as a navigational tool for the blind, the animals have proven to be an effective therapeutic tool for conditions as varied as autism, epilepsy and post-traumatic stress disorder. Today, people count on dogs to alert them to dangerous changes in their blood sugar, to disrupt panic attacks and to detect the smell of allergens. But as demand for the dogs increases, the organizations that provide them are facing a shortage of volunteers to raise them as puppies. It’s a challenging, time-consuming gig that typically pays nothing and requires forging an intimate bond with a dog only to give it away. This “critical” volunteer shortage is leading to yearslong wait times for service dogs, according to Assistance Dogs International, the accrediting body for nonprofit service dog providers. The nationwide nonprofit Canine Companions needs about 500 new puppy raisers a year to keep pace with demand, and its wait times for a service dog can reach 18 months, said James Dern, who leads the organization’s puppy program. At some other organizations, people may have to wait even longer. Ashley Frantz, a 40-year-old woman in Virginia Beach, Va., who sustained physical and emotional trauma while serving in the Navy, waited two years to be matched with a dog. The experience, she said, was “incredibly defeating.” “Puppy raisers are the backbone of our organization,” said Molly Elmore, the volunteer program manager at Warrior Canine Connection, a service dog nonprofit in Boyds, Md., that pairs service dogs with wounded veterans who have mobility issues, traumatic brain injuries or PTSD. “They’re the only way it all happens.” Finding a New Purpose Amid Grief On a Saturday morning in February, at the Hipsleys’ home in Catonsville, Md., Pogo was asleep at Ms. Hipsley’s feet, cuddled up with two other puppies the Hipsleys had raised: Blair, who was back for a visit, and Devin, whom the Hipsleys later adopted. Four-month-old Marita, who had arrived the previous week, stood at the edge of the dog pile, unconvinced she needed a nap. The Hipsleys began puppy raising in 2015, less than a year after their son Chris died by suicide. Chris, a decorated Army medic, had developed severe PTSD during three tours in the Middle East. The Hipsleys had pleaded with him to apply for a service dog, but he was resistant. After Chris died, the couple felt compelled to help other veterans, but weren’t sure how. Then a friend told them about Warrior Canine Connection, the nonprofit in Maryland that helps wounded veterans. “It was just like fate — this is what we were supposed to do,” Ms. Hipsley said. Soon, a bouncy black lab puppy named Jack moved in. The busyness of “all things puppy,” Mr. Hipsley said, was a comfort. “Jack probably saved our lives,” said Mr. Hipsley, 71, a retired business executive. As Mr. Hipsley talked, Pogo moved from the floor to his side, where she pushed her nose between his clasped hands, demonstrating a skill she’ll use when her future handler experiences distress. “She feels the tension in me,” he said, rubbing her ears. “She’ll do that,” Jane explained. “She gets the stress cues.” Making It Work Today, the Hipsleys typically raise two or three dogs at a time, often taking on the organization’s most challenging dogs; one had a leaky bladder, one was recovering from shoulder surgery and another liked to hurdle other dogs in class. They try to divide responsibilities evenly. Ms. Hipsley focuses on walks, Mr. Hipsley on teaching commands. Potty training is a team effort. “It’s just like a baby,” Mr. Hipsley said. “Whose shift is it?” The time commitment can sometimes keep people from volunteering. Michael Yau, 42, and his wife figured they were too busy to become puppy raisers. The couple, who live in Orinda, Ca., both work, and they have three children under 7, as well as a pet golden doodle. But Mr. Yau, an entrepreneur, was inspired to volunteer after attending a Canine Companions fund-raiser that showcased client testimonials; it was the first time Mr. Yau’s wife had ever seen him cry. Expectations for puppy raisers can differ by organization. But their most important assignment is socialization. Under the Americans With Disabilities Act, service dogs are allowed in most public places. But staying focused despite the sights, sounds and smells of the world takes a lot of practice. When the Hipsleys’ puppies are young, socialization is mostly about exposure; their youngest puppy has been getting accustomed to the sound of traffic at an intersection near the couple’s home. Older dogs go on longer excursions and face greater temptations. At 21 months, Pogo recently lounged beneath the table of a busy Panera while the Hipsleys ate lunch with friends. Despite their own busy lives, the Yaus have been able to make it work. “The puppy gets fully integrated into your life,” Mr. Yau said. The family even took the first puppy they raised, a yellow lab named Fonzi, to Disneyland by plane. At Fonzi’s graduation ceremony, the family was able to pass the Labrador’s leash to his new handler, a young man with autism. “It was a bittersweet moment,” Mr. Yau said, “and such a seminal moment for our kids to learn about service.” Today, the Yaus are on puppy number two. Bittersweet Goodbyes Every once in a while, the Hipsleys receive photos, updates and heartfelt thank yous from the people who have benefited from their efforts. One of them is Ms. Frantz, the former member of the Navy who waited two years for a service dog. She was ultimately paired with a black lab named Patty, whom the Hipsleys raised. The effect, Ms. Frantz said, has been profound. She once chewed her fingernails down to the quick, avoided social interactions and couldn’t go to Walmart without having a panic attack, she said. Patty has changed that. Ms. Frantz’s anxiety has dissipated, and she he has found herself striking up conversations with strangers while shopping. She is well aware of the role the Hipsleys played in her improvement. “Just look at what they did for someone that they didn’t know,” Ms. Frantz said. “I wouldn’t be getting better without them.” In the Hipsleys’ home, a photo of Patty sits on one of their living room shelves, along with the rest of their “sorority,” as they call it, since 16 of the puppies have been female. “At this point, we have more pictures of dogs than we do our grandchildren,” Mr. Hipsley said. After 18 rounds of puppy raising, the Hipsleys have learned how to soothe the sweet sorrow of parting with a dog: by getting another one. So in the weeks leading up to Pogo’s departure, the couple brought home Marita. “I haven’t had a dog yet that I didn’t cry about,” Mr. Hipsley said. “There is pain, but when you see the good that it does, well, that takes the pain away.” New York Times: Sit, Stay, Say Goodbye https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/27/well/service-dog-shortage-volunteer-puppy-care.html?unlocked_article_code=1.7E4.ON8e.mb9Gs904_78p&smid=url-share

Warrior Canine Connection (WCC), a nonprofit dedicated to training service dogs for Veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other disabilities, has honored the memory of Captain Erick Foster in a truly meaningful way by naming one of its service dogs in his memory, ensuring that his legacy of service and sacrifice continues to inspire and support those who need it most. Cpt. Erick Foster was a born leader. No one pushed himself harder or cared for his teammates more. Naming a dog after Cpt. Foster is more than a tribute; it’s a powerful reminder that the service and dedication that defines our heroes can be carried forward in many forms. The dog will train to help Veterans regain their independence. The honor of having a service dog named in his memory will undoubtedly resonate with Cpt. Foster's family, friends, and fellow Veterans. It’s a lasting tribute that ensures his legacy will continue to have a meaningful impact for years to come. WCC Erick has been added to Warrior Canine Connection’s " Hall of Heroes ".

We have exciting news to share with our Team Foster community! On October 29, 2024, we received our Certificate of Registration for our new logo, TF TEAM FOSTER EST. 2014, under Registration No. 7,549,749 in International Class 36. This marks a significant milestone for our organization as we prepare to celebrate a decade of making a difference! Receiving this trademark registration is not just about having a logo; it symbolizes the hard work, dedication, and commitment we’ve put into our mission over the past ten years. Our logo represents our values and the community we’ve built, and now it’s officially recognized as a unique identifier of Team Foster. As we approach our 10th anniversary, we reflect on all we’ve accomplished together. From supporting veterans and their families to raising awareness about the challenges they face, Team Foster has made strides that wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of our community. This trademark is a testament to our growth and our future. To commemorate this achievement and our upcoming anniversary, we’re planning a series of celebrations! Stay tuned for events, activities, and ways you can join in the festivities. We want everyone to be a part of this special moment as we honor our past and look forward to what’s next. We couldn’t have reached this milestone without each of you—our dedicated supporters, volunteers, and partners. Your commitment to our mission fuels our passion and drives our efforts. As we embark on this next chapter, we’re excited to continue working together to create positive change in the lives of those we serve. Join us in celebrating our new trademark registration and the incredible journey of Team Foster. Here’s to the next ten years and beyond! Stay connected with us for updates and celebrations. Thank you for being an essential part of Team Foster!

In a world where Veterans often face unique challenges, especially when transitioning back to civilian life, service dogs have emerged as a transformative force. These loyal companions offer not only physical assistance but also provide emotional and psychological support that can make all the difference in a Veteran's life. Team Foster is proud to collaborate with Warrior Canine Connection (WCC), one of its three key training partners, to provide these life-changing service dogs to Veterans in need. Warrior Canine Connection has long been at the forefront of training service dogs for Veterans, but what makes their partnership with Team Foster so significant is the way they’ve worked together to expand access to these critical resources. Through this collaboration, Team Foster has helped establish an almost identical program in Pittsburgh, which mirrors WCC’s successful model in Philadelphia. With Team Foster's backing, the Pittsburgh program is now one of the first accredited service dog programs for Veterans in the region, offering a new lifeline to those in the area who might otherwise have gone without this essential support. The Pittsburgh program, funded and initiated by Team Foster, is a significant step forward in providing Veterans in Western Pennsylvania with access to accredited service dog programs. This accreditation means that the dogs trained in this program meet the highest standards of service and care, ensuring that Veterans receive the very best support possible. You can read more about the program in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette . While service dogs provide immense benefits to Veterans, the training process itself is equally important. Warrior Canine Connection's unique approach goes beyond just pairing dogs with Veterans. They actively engage Veterans in the dog training process, allowing them to participate as trainers, mentors, and caretakers of the dogs during their training journey. This model not only provides dogs with the skills needed to serve their future handlers but also gives Veterans a sense of purpose, achievement, and a deeper connection to their canine companions. The process has proven to be therapeutic, as it helps Veterans build confidence, develop leadership skills, and foster a sense of camaraderie and responsibility. For many Veterans, working with dogs helps to reduce the symptoms of PTSD and other service-related conditions, giving them a renewed sense of hope and direction.  If you’re inspired by the work of Team Foster and Warrior Canine Connection, there are many ways to get involved. Whether it’s donating, volunteering, or spreading the word about the importance of service dogs for Veterans, every little bit helps to ensure that this life-changing work continues. Together, we can make sure that every Veteran has access to the support they deserve.

Read the full article by Siobhan Nolan on The Hockey News .  On Nov. 11, Veterans Day, the Philadelphia Flyers paid a stirring tribute to those who have served the United States, hosting a heartfelt Military Appreciation Night that captured the spirit of respect, camaraderie, and honor that runs deep in the military community. To kick off an evening of unfeigned gratitude and solemn tribute, at center ice, the spotlight fell on Sgt. Josh Chilcote of the Flyers Warriors, a team dedicated to military veterans with disabilities, who stepped forward for the ceremonial puck drop alongside his service dog, Turbo. Flyers defenseman Jamie Drysdale met with Chilcote and Turbo during the game, presenting Chilcote with a custom military Flyers jersey. For the Flyers, honoring those who serve isn't just a tradition; it's a deeply personal cause embedded in the team's ethos, with their efforts going above and beyond for the service members that benefit from the Flyers' active involvement. "I think it's really easy to say 'thank you for your service,'" said Nick Liermann, founder of Team Foster, an organization that "raises money to provide accredited, life-saving service dogs to injured and disabled Veterans." "One of the things I think the Flyers and our community are really good at is actually supporting our veterans, especially our veterans who need it the most. I think [Military Appreciation Night] is a really great example of our community coming together to do just that, and you realize how much our veterans really are supported." Beyond the ceremonial moments, the Flyers' commitment extended to their training facility, where they opened their doors to veterans prior to game night. Players stayed on the ice after practice to spend time skating and conversing with these men and women—an experience that was as enriching for the players as it was for the veterans themselves. In the shared space of the rink, the veterans were no longer spectators but participants, welcomed into the fold by a team that views them as an essential part of the Flyers family. This opportunity was not just a token experience, but a chance to be seen, heard, and appreciated. "A professional athlete has a demanding schedule, so any time they carve out time to spend it with someone, you know it matters," Liermann said of the experience. "It's not just lip service." Honoring those in the military is a cause particularly close to the heart of Philadelphia Flyers head coach John Tortorella , and he has personally made significant efforts to support organizations like the Flyers Warriors and Team Foster—a gesture that doesn't go unnoticed. "I know he's very protective of his time," Liermann said. "I also know that Torts has two passions—one is animals, the other is the military, in large part because his son is in the Special Forces. We had the good fortune that Torts actually came out to one of our fundraising events in the spring. I've had conversations with him, and it's very obvious in every interaction with him how personally he takes this mission." For Team Foster, the recognition from the Flyers is a small piece of their ambitions to not just provide service dogs to veterans who need them, but "educating the public about what it means to have a service dog, what it takes for a service dog to get properly trained, what our handler's rights are, but also what business and the public's rights are as well. So the more opportunities we get to talk about what we do and the impact of these service dogs, the better." (A fun side note: Team Foster partnered with the Philadelphia Phillies have a "team dog" named Major, who is with the team training to be a service dog—and the content is adorable.)

As Team Foster expands our footprint, we are excited to share a feature on how our partnership with Warrior Canine Connection and Duquesne University supports the Veteran community in Pittsburgh, PA and surrounding communities.

This year marks a significant milestone for Team Foster and our community of supporters and participants—the 10th Annual Foster 100 Classic. What began as a heartfelt tribute to honor the memory of Cpt. Erick Foster has grown into a powerful movement dedicated to providing service dogs to injured and disabled Veterans. This year’s event was not only a celebration of our achievements over the past decade but also a testament to the enduring spirit of camaraderie, resilience, and mission that defines Team Foster.  The Foster 100 Classic is not just a ride; it's a journey of honor and remembrance. Cyclists from all over the greater Philadelphia area, embark on the 100-mile challenge. As the sun rose, the air was filled with a palpable sense of excitement and purpose as platoons checked in to ride at Veterans Island in Pennsauken, NJ. Each pedal stroke represented a tribute to Erick Foster’s legacy and a commitment to supporting our nation's heroes. This year’s 100 mile cycling event ended in Cape May at Naval Station Wildwood featured a particularly poignant moment—a champagne toast and a special speech by one of Erick Foster’s childhood friends. The gathering paused as glasses were raised under the memorable Team Foster arch and finish line in memory of Erick and in celebration of the mission that bears his name. The speech was a moving tribute, filled with personal anecdotes and reflections that brought Erick’s spirit to life for those who knew him and those who never had the chance. As we celebrate this milestone, we also look to the future with renewed determination. The road ahead is long, and there is much work to be done in the Veteran community. But with the continued support of our community, we are confident that we can achieve even greater heights. Every dollar raised, every mile ridden, and every story shared brings us one step closer to our goals. We invite you to join us on this journey. Whether you participate in the ride, volunteer, or donate, your support makes a difference. Together, we can honor Erick Foster’s legacy and continue to provide life-changing support to those who have given so much for our freedom. Thank you to everyone who made the 10th Annual Foster 100 Classic a resounding success. Thanks to our participants, donors, and volunteers, we were able to raise over $160,000. Here’s to many more years of riding, remembering, and making a difference—one mile at a time. A special thank you to our sponsors at Aetna, Power Home Remodeling, Elliot Lewis, Comcast Military, and Cuhaci Peterson.

Philadelphia was buzzing with excitement as Team Foster's Ruff Ride took over the historic 23rd Street Armory. This 24 hour cycling event brought together fitness enthusiasts, community supporters, and a shared mission to provide service dogs to injured and disabled Veterans. The atmosphere was electric, filled with high energy, unity, and a commitment to making a difference in the Veteran community.  The event kicked off with a bang as instructors from top cycle studios across Philadelphia led the charge. Their dynamic and engaging styles created an atmosphere of fun and motivation, pushing participants to give their all. From the first pedal stroke to the last, these instructors ensured that every cyclist was challenged, entertained, and inspired. Veterans were invited to take the stage and share their life changing stories and how their service dog positively impacted their life, and for some, saving their life. There were special guests throughout the 24 hours in Philadelphia this year. Among some of our guest speakers were Marisa Magnatta from the Steve and Preston Show who hosted a Philly Food Trivia Game. We were also joined by surprise guest from the Philadelphia Flyers, Coach John Tortorella and Cindy Stutman, Senior Vice President at Phillies Charities. The Flyers duo took the stage to speak about The Flyers involvement with Team Foster and how we plan to work together in the future by pairing a service dog with a Veteran on the Flyers Warriors! As the clock struck midnight, the 23rd Street Armory was transformed into a vibrant sea of neon lights for the Midnight Glow Ride. Cyclists adorned with glow sticks and neon gear pedaled through the night, creating a mesmerizing display of light and movement. This ride was not only a visual spectacle but also a symbol of hope and solidarity, illuminating the way for our Veterans. The intensity continued and peaked with The Bad Mofo Challenge, a test of endurance and strength that pushed cyclists to their limits. Participants dug deep, showcasing their determination to represent the Team Foster mission. This challenge embodied the spirit of Team Foster and the perseverance required to support our Veterans through thick and thin. Ruff Ride PHL was a triumph of community spirit and generosity. Thanks to the dedication and support of everyone involved, we raised over $180,000. These funds will directly support the training and provision of service dogs to injured and disabled veterans, giving them the assistance and companionship they need to regain their independence and improve their quality of life. The success of the Philadelphia Ruff Ride is a testament to the power of community and the impact we can make when we come together for a common cause. Every dollar raised, every mile pedaled, and every moment shared brings us closer to our mission of honoring Erick Foster’s legacy and supporting the nation’s Veterans. We invite you to be part of Team Foster’s mission. Whether you ride, volunteer, or donate, your support is invaluable. Together, we can continue to make a profound difference in the lives of those who have given so much for our freedom. Thank you to everyone who made the Philadelphia Ruff Ride an unforgettable night. Here’s to many more nights of riding, remembering, and making a difference—one pedal stroke at a time. To stay up to date on Ruff Ride 2025, please visit RuffRide.org.

Team Foster's Ruff Ride PGH made a memorable debut at the Petersen Events Center on the University of Pittsburgh’s campus. This all-night cycling extravaganza combined community spirit, high-energy performances, and an unwavering commitment to raising money to provide injured and disabled Veterans with accredited, life-saving service dogs. With the Pitt band, cheerleaders, and beloved mascot Roc rallying participants, the atmosphere was electric from the first pedal stroke to the last. Cheers and chants from the cheerleaders echoed through the venue, energizing the cyclists ready to tackle the day ahead. Roc the Panther mascot mingled with participants, spreading enthusiasm and team spirit that would carry everyone through the night. As Ruff Ride continued into the evening, participants played games and were treated to live performances by Jordan in the City and The Dang Band. Their electrifying sets kept the energy levels high, providing a motivating soundtrack for the riders pushing through the challenge. These performances not only entertained but also served as a reminder of the community's unwavering support for our Veterans. One of the highlights of the event was the Midnight Glow Ride. As the clock struck midnight, cyclists donned glow sticks and neon lights, transforming the Petersen Events Center into a luminous spectacle. The glow ride was a visual representation of the light and hope Team Foster brings to the lives of our Veterans, illuminating the path forward with every pedal stroke. As the night progressed, the intensity ramped up with The Bad Mofo Challenge. This segment tested the endurance and determination of the riders, pushing them to their limits in a grueling but rewarding trial. The challenge was joined by Team Foster’s Founder and Executive Director, Nick Liermann as he challenged the riders to race him to be the next Bad Mofo! The culmination of the Ruff Ride was more than just the dawn of a new day—it was a testament to the incredible generosity and dedication of the Pittsburgh community. Together, participants, volunteers, and supporters raised over $100,000. These funds will go directly towards providing service dogs to injured and disabled Veterans, helping them regain independence and improve their quality of life. A huge thank you to our sponsors at Aetna, Pittsburgh University, UPMC, and CycleBar Robinson! Team Foster’s Ruff Ride in Pittsburgh was more than just an event; it was a celebration of unity, resilience, and the power of community. As we reflect on this incredible night, we are filled with gratitude for everyone who contributed to its success. The funds raised will make a significant impact, and we are already looking forward to next year’s event with anticipation and excitement.  We invite you to be part of our mission. Whether you ride, volunteer, or donate, your support makes a difference. Together, we can continue to honor the legacy of Erick Foster and provide life-changing support to our veterans. For more details on the 2024 Ruff Ride in Pittsburgh, visit RuffRide.org.