Our New Canine Miracles Van: A Gift That Moves the Mission Forward

Behind every service dog placed with a Hero, there is an enormous amount of unseen work — veterinary visits, training sessions, evaluations, public access outings, and countless miles traveled to ensure each dog is fully prepared for the life-changing role they will serve.

That’s why the recent donation of a Canine Miracles for Heroes program van is more than just a vehicle. It is a powerful investment in the future of our mission.

More Than Transportation

Service dogs in training require consistent exposure to environments, experiences, and care providers across our region. From routine veterinary appointments to specialized training locations and community outreach events, transportation is essential to every stage of development.

Until now, much of this travel relied on personal vehicles and limited capacity. The addition of a dedicated program van changes what is possible.

With this new vehicle, our team can:

• Safely transport multiple dogs for training and care

• Travel longer distances to reach Heroes in need

• Attend more community education and outreach events

• Maintain consistency in veterinary and training schedules

• Support placements and follow-up visits more effectively

Simply put, this van increases both our reach and our reliability.

A Community Effort That Made It Possible

This new chapter for Canine Miracles for Heroes was made possible through the generosity and partnership of organizations that believe deeply in supporting veterans, first responders, and the life-changing work of service dogs.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Gabus Ford Foundation, whose grant support helped secure this vehicle for our program. Their commitment to strengthening communities across Iowa continues to create lasting impact.

We are also sincerely thankful to Toyota of Des Moines, who provided the van itself. Their partnership ensures our team can travel safely and reliably as we serve Heroes across the region.

And we are proud to recognize Vision Custom Signs & Graphics, whose beautifully designed custom wrap transforms this van into a moving symbol of hope, awareness, and service wherever it travels.

Together, these partners have given Canine Miracles for Heroes far more than transportation — they have expanded the reach of healing.

Expanding the Circle of Impact

Each service dog journey involves an entire network — breeders, trainers, veterinarians, volunteers, donors, and ultimately the Hero whose life will be changed. Reliable transportation connects all of these pieces.

The new Canine Miracles van allows our programs to operate with greater efficiency and stability, ensuring that every dog receives the preparation and support required before placement.

For the Heroes we serve, that preparation matters deeply. A fully trained, confident service dog represents independence, stability, and renewed freedom in daily life. This van helps make that outcome possible.

Moving Forward Together With Our New Canine Miraces Van

Every mile this van travels will carry dogs toward readiness, Heroes toward partnership, and communities toward greater awareness of the healing power of service dogs.

We are deeply grateful to the partners and supporters who made this gift possible and to all who continue to stand alongside this mission.

Together, we are moving forward — one journey, one dog, one Hero at a time.