Bryan Williams, Dogs for Better Lives President & CEO
In last year’s annual report, I wrote the following: “Covid concerns continue to impact operations, specifically how we acquire, train, and place dogs. There still were no in-person fundraising events and our development staff
remain limited in meeting with our passionate donors. But not only is there light at the end of the tunnel, we feel like we’re already exiting.”
Looking back on that statement, it is now clear to see that we truly were headed in the right direction.
I’m pleased to share that all key metrics from the 2021-22 fiscal year were up. Assistance Dog placements were a record high for Dogs for Better Lives, more than doubling the number of placements in the previous year. There
are more active teams across the country than ever before. The number of puppies being raised increased 80% and our success rate grew from 42% to 61%. Our first dogs came into training on the Northeast campus and the very first placement from that facility should happen in early 2023. Things continue to progress as we execute the organization’s long-range vision.
Check out our infographic with some of our biggest accomplishments last fiscal year.
With our current strategic plan expiring this year, the Leadership team will work closely with the Board to create
the next iteration of our four-year strategic plan to continue the goal of placing more dogs with our deserving
clients across the country.
Our successes in the 2021-22 fiscal year aren’t just reflected in data. What isn’t lost on me and is highlighted throughout our Annual Report are the individual stories of the clients we help and donors who so generously give to make these placements possible.
While we focus on moving the organization forward across the country, it is still the people that make the work so rewarding, whether that is the Board, staff, clients, donors, or volunteers. There is so much that goes into training and placing a dog. Acquisition and breeding, puppy raising, obedience training, professional training, placement, follow up and so much more. There are far too many people to thank for their hard work and dedication.
As one young child said when asked what his favorite thing about his Assistance Dog was, “she licks me and makes me happier by a billion percent.” I echo that sentiment in my opportunity to continue to lead this organization as CEO, working alongside an amazing Board and team. Especially when I get to play with puppies on campus.
I hope you enjoy our Annual Report and share in the successes we experienced as an organization. Because all our support comes from the generosity of the donors that believe in the mission, none of what was accomplished would be possible without you.
