Press Release for DVNF

Escondido, California — May 18, 2019 – Next Step Service Dogs is honored to announce it has received a grant from the Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF) for $10,750 which will assist in funding the extensive care and training of two service dogs for two veterans with PTSD.

Sally Montrucchio, Executive Director and co-founder of Next Step Service Dogs said, “Next Step is very grateful for this donation to help more veterans cope with PTSD through expertly trained service dogs. We see how these dogs revitalize our veterans and give them new hope and joy; it is a privilege to serve our veterans this way.”

Joseph Van Fonda (USMC Sgt.Maj. Ret.), CEO of the Disabled Veterans National Foundation said, “We are proud to support Next Step Service Dogs, as they continue to make a positive impact in veterans’ lives. We would like to congratulate and thank them for their commitment to assisting the men and women who served in defense of our country.”

Next Step Service Dogs has trained over 100 ADI-accredited service dog/veteran teams, with wonderful results. NSSD service dogs are specially trained to assist their veterans suffering from PTSD, TBI, crippling flashbacks, seizures, disassociation, sexual-assault trauma, autoimmune illnesses, mobility issues, and suicidal thinking. NSSD service dogs help veterans to reconnect with family, friends, and jobs and find new purpose in living.

Disabled Veterans National Foundation exists to provide critically needed support to disabled and at-risk veterans who leave the military wounded—physically or psychologically—after defending our safety and our freedom. DVNF achieves this mission by:

● Offering direct financial support to veteran organizations that address the unique needs of veterans, and whose missions align with that of DVNF.

● Providing supplemental assistance to homeless and. low-income veterans through the Health & Comfort program and various empowerment resources.

● Providing an online resource database that allows veterans to navigate the complex process of seeking benefits that they are entitled to because of their military service, as well as additional resources they need.

● Serving as a thought leader on critical policy issues within the veteran community and educating the public accordingly.

Mission of Next Step Service Dogs:

To renew the life of veterans and first responders through service dog placement, training, and education by mobilizing public and private resources.

Disabled Veterans National Foundation Contact:

Marketing and Communications Director, (202) 847-3053, communications@dvnf.org