Our Story
Mission Statement: It is the mission of CHAMP Assistance Dogs to improve and enhance life skills and promote companionship through the placement of specially selected service dogs with qualified individuals, and further, to always celebrate the joy inherent in the canine/human bond.
History & Programs
CHAMP Assistance Dogs incorporated as a non-profit organization in January of 1998.
CHAMP is an acronym that stands for Canine Helpers Allow More Possibilities. CHAMP is a fully-accredited service dog organization through Assistance Dogs International (ADI).
Service Dog Program- CHAMP trains and places service dogs to empower children and adults with physical and cognitive disabilities. Service dogs enhance their partner’s life skills and help with tasks such as; opening and closing doors, turning light switches on and off, picking up dropped items, removing clothing, and augmenting physical therapy while increasing their partner’s independence, confidence and self-esteem. CHAMP service dogs are placed free-of-charge.
Facility Dogs-These specially trained dogs work with professional care givers at pediatric hospitals, child advocacy centers and serve as Courthouse Dogs. A dog working in a child advocacy center or courtroom can provide comfort to a child during a forensic interview or when a child is faced with the difficult task of confronting their abuser in court. A facility dog, working in a hospital, can ease a patient’s anxiety and stimulate healing and recovery.
Prison Program- CHAMP and the Missouri Department of Corrections participates a win-win partnership that begin in 2002. Offenders in a Women’s prison in Vandalia, MO, gain valuable vocational skills while training service dogs and giving back to the community. The CHAMP Prison Program focuses on confidence building, problem solving skills, teamwork, open communication and the use of positive reinforcements. The skills that the women offenders learn while working in the CHAMP Prison Program will prepare them for reintegration in the community.
Therapy Dog Program—CHAMP visits more than 20,000 children and adults in hospitals, rehab centers and other facilities on a yearly basis. Interactions with a therapy dog team can provide emotional and physical health benefits. A connection between a human and a dog often helps individuals forget about their suffering, even if for only a moment.
Education Program-CHAMP Assistance dogs offers unique education programs for children and adults. Presentations are individually designed, teach respect for people of all abilities and help individuals gain understanding of various disabilities.
Volunteer Opportunities: CHAMP Assistance Dogs operates with a small staff that relies upon the help and expertise of more than 120 active volunteers. Volunteers help CHAMP fulfil its mission, reach program goals and keep operating costs at a minimum. The majority of CHAMP volunteers serve on Therapy Dog Teams and visit hospitals, rehab centers, assisted living centers, the USO and many other facilities. Enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers help raise puppies for CHAMP, serve on special event committees, assist with building maintenance and help with office tasks. Whatever path you choose as a CHAMP volunteer, your efforts will make a significant difference.
