The Evolution of Shelter to Service

Expanding Veterans’ Support with Streamlined Training and Lasting Bonds

This expansion marks a signficant shift in the program’s mission, as it broadens its impact and makes service available to a wider community.

Incredible things happen when you take a bold step toward inclusivity. That’s exactly what Joybound’s Shelter to Service program did last year when it expanded its reach to include those facing mental health challenges in addition to Veterans. Now, first responders, survivors of violent crimes, and others with qualified medical referrals can also access psychiatric service dogs, offering hope and stability to more people in need.

This expansion marks a significant shift in the program’s mission, as it broadens its impact and makes service animals available to a wider community. The positive community response to this inclusivity has been overwhelming, as people recognize the power of the human-animal bond in healing and supporting mental health.

Additionally, Joybound’s commitment to holistic care now includes generating trained facility dogs and cats to provide support in group settings. These animals work in Veterans centers, courtrooms, hospitals, and behavioral therapy and crisis centers, offering comfort and assistance in environments where mental health challenges are often most acute.

Joybound’s expanded Shelter to Service program is more than just a resource for those with psychiatric needs. It’s a transformative initiative that fosters connections and provides essential support. By offering psychiatric service animals to individuals from all walks of life, Joybound not only addresses immediate mental health challenges, but is also working toward long-term healing and stability for diverse groups in the community.

This inclusive approach has created new partnerships and opportunities with organizations like Embark Behavioral Health and Berkeley Youth Alternatives joining forces to further extend the program’s impact. Joybound recognizes the evolving needs of the community and is building a stronger, more connected support system for all.

Ready to learn more? Head over to joybound.org/shelter-to-service to discover how you can help turn shelter guests into psychiatric service dogs.

Note: This article was featured in Joybound’s Spring 2025 issue of Joy Magazine. With a gift of just $25 to Joybound, you can be added to our mailing list and receive Joy in your mailbox for one year!