We are thrilled to share exciting news that directly strengthens our mission to provide highly trained service dogs to military veterans: the Rotary Club of Des Moines has awarded Puppy Jake Foundation a $50,000 Community Service Grant to purchase a new transport van for our dogs and trainers.
This annual grant from the Rotary Club supports organizations creating lasting, positive impact in the Des Moines community. We are honored to have been selected for 2025.
A Critical Investment in Our Service Dog Program
Every Puppy Jake service dog spends nearly two years training in real-world environments—learning to navigate grocery stores, medical facilities, restaurants, malls, public transportation, and countless other everyday situations.
This training is made possible through collaborations with:
- Local businesses
- Community volunteers
- The Newton Correctional Release Facility’s dog-training participants
These partnerships help our puppies grow into confident, reliable service dogs for veterans living with physical disabilities, PTSD, and other service-related challenges.
Our current transport vehicle, a 2015 Dodge Caravan with more than 200,000 miles, was recently damaged in a deer collision. With our team attending nearly 300 community events, training sessions, and veteran-support activities each year, a dependable transportation vehicle is essential to keeping our program running safely and smoothly.
The Rotary Club’s generous grant allows us to replace the damaged van and ensure our dogs and trainers continue traveling wherever they are needed most.
Community Support That Changes Lives
Rotary Club of Des Moines President Tim Lillwitz shared why the organization chose to support Puppy Jake Foundation this year:
“Our club looks for opportunities where a single transformative investment can create long-term, life-changing impact. Puppy Jake Foundation’s work is invaluable in this community, allowing veterans to reclaim independence, confidence, and connection. The Rotary Club of Des Moines is beyond proud to help Puppy Jake Foundation change the lives of even more heroes in our community.”
Each year, Rotary’s Grants Committee reviews many thoughtful and deserving applications, ultimately selecting three finalists for interviews before choosing a recipient. We are grateful and humbled to have been selected.
Thank You, Rotary Club of Des Moines
This investment strengthens the daily work of our trainers, volunteers, and program dogs—and most importantly, it helps us better serve the veterans who rely on these exceptional service animals.
From everyone at Puppy Jake Foundation: thank you for believing in our mission and supporting the veterans we serve.
