Puppy Jake Foundation raised more than $150,000 to support its mission of providing service dogs to military veterans during its sold-out annual Gala in May. The organization also recognized several outstanding individuals and organizations whose dedication, leadership, and support have helped advance Puppy Jake Foundation’s mission of providing professionally trained service dogs to veterans at no cost.
The evening featured presentation of the Puppy Jake’s Battle Buddy Sponsor Award and Force Multiplier Awards. The Battle Buddy designation recognizes sponsors who exemplify the dependable support and commitment found in military battle buddy relationships. The Force Multiplier Awards honor individuals and organizations whose contributions significantly expand Puppy Jake Foundation’s ability to serve veterans.
“The success of this year’s Gala reflects the incredible community that stands behind our mission,” said Lisa Russell, CEO of the Puppy Jake Foundation. “Those we recognized have each played an important role in helping us raise, train, and place service dogs with veterans. Their commitment makes our work possible.”
MidAmerican Energy Receives Battle Buddy Sponsor Award
Puppy Jake Foundation presented a 2026 Battle Buddy Sponsor Award to the MidAmerican Energy Company in recognition of more than a decade of partnership and support. The award honors organizations that embody the spirit of a military “battle buddy” – dependable partners who consistently step forward to support the mission.
Beyond financial sponsorship, MidAmerican Energy employees have volunteered at events, fostered future service dogs, completed facility improvement projects, and supported the Foundation in numerous ways. The company has also provided Puppy Jake Foundation with opportunities to connect with Iowans through its presence at the Iowa State Fair.
“MidAmerican Energy has demonstrated what it means to be a true partner,” Russell said. “Their support extends far beyond sponsorship. Their employees continually invest their time, talents, and energy into helping Puppy Jake Foundation succeed, and we are deeply grateful for their commitment.”
Force Multiplier Awards Presented to Lindsay Fox, Jeff Link and Hy-Vee
Puppy Jake also presented its Force Multiplier Awards, which recognize individuals and organizations whose contributions significantly increase the impact of the foundation’s work.
Lindsay Fox
Volunteer and foster Lindsay Fox was recognized for her extraordinary commitment to Puppy Jake Foundation since joining the organization in 2020. Over the past six years, she has fostered 15 service dogs while also mentoring new fosters, supporting trainers, conducting evaluations, and assisting wherever needed.
“Lindsay is the person you can always count on,” Russell said. “She consistently goes above and beyond to support our dogs, our volunteers, and our veterans. Her willingness to step in wherever needed has strengthened our program in countless ways.”
Jeff Link
Outgoing Board Chair Jeff Link received a Force Multiplier Award in recognition of his years of leadership and service to the Foundation. Throughout his tenure, Link provided strategic guidance, thoughtful leadership, and steady support as Puppy Jake Foundation grew and evolved.
“Jeff’s leadership helped shape Puppy Jake Foundation during some of the most important moments in our history,” Russell said. “His wisdom, patience, and commitment to our mission have left a lasting legacy that will continue to benefit the organization for years to come.”
Hy-Vee
Hy-Vee was honored as the Foundation’s 2026 Corporate Force Multiplier Award recipient for more than a decade of partnership and investment in Puppy Jake Foundation’s mission. Hy-Vee became one of the earliest corporate supporters of Puppy Jake Foundation through the retailer’s Homefront initiative, which launched in 2013, providing critical support during the organization’s formative years and helping fuel its growth.
Over the years, Hy-Vee has supported Puppy Jake Foundation through financial contributions, training opportunities within its stores, and by helping raise awareness of the organization’s mission among employees, customers, and communities across the Midwest.
“Hy-Vee took a chance on Puppy Jake Foundation when we were a brand-new nonprofit organization,” Russell said. “Their support helped create momentum during our earliest years and has continued to strengthen our mission ever since. We are proud to recognize Hy-Vee for its longstanding commitment to veterans and service dogs.”
The award was accepted on behalf of Hy-Vee by Drew Holmes, Senior Vice President of Operations for the South Region.
Funds raised through the Gala will help Puppy Jake Foundation continue raising, training, and placing service dogs with veterans, while supporting the ongoing care, socialization, and development of dogs throughout the training process.
