Each year, five to seven million dogs enter shelters; and every day, a U.S. soldier commits suicide. Graham Bloem, a dog trainer with strong ties to the U.S. military, pondered these statistics and knew he could do something to help. Subsequently, he founded Shelter to Soldier, a private San Diego non-profit organization whose mission is to train carefully selected shelter dogs and place them with U.S. military veterans afflicted with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in need of a companion service dog.
“When I heard about this organization and its mission, I was compelled to act,” said Henry Schubach, president and founder of Schubach Aviation. “Here was an opportunity to support two causes that are important to us: dogs and veterans. We’ve enjoyed a partnership with Shelter to Soldier since 2013 and have helped them rescue otherwise unwanted dogs and turn them into needed companions to our returning veterans who might be struggling to re-enter normal life here in our community.”
2017 marks a fourth yearlong fundraising campaign by Schubach Aviation whereby the company will donate one cent for every mile flown by its fleet of 12 private aircraft through December. Based on current mileage trends, the company expects to raise as much as $12,000 for the organization. Schubach Aviation will also give its customers the option of matching the company’s “one cent per mile” donation by also contributing to the cause.
“I’m thankful to Schubach Aviation for coming forward as a financial partner, and helping to raise community awareness of our organization’s mission and successes,” said Bloem. “Their support will go a long way to specially train, house and feed the selected shelter dogs, as well as cover medical care, equipment, travel and grooming costs. More important, Schubach Aviation is helping us save dogs’ lives and the lives of our local veterans.” In addition to the Schubach Aviation partnership, Shelter to Soldier provides an opportunity for patronage through their monthly support campaign to offset the costs associated with housing, feeding and training service dogs for as little as $10.00 per month.
In addition, anyone regardless of their discretionary income can support Shelter to Soldier by attending their 4th annual fundraising gala scheduled for September 16, 2017. Exciting plans are in the works for this festive celebration and for those who are interested in supporting the fundraising effort, the organization is now accepting silent and live auction items and event sponsorships. To contribute, contact Shelter to Soldier Co-Founder, Kyrie’ Bloem at [email protected]
