Our Mission
Canines for Change provides highly trained service and facility dogs that enhance the lives of children and adults with disabilities—empowering them to lead active, independent lives. We also educate communities on the benefits of service dogs through outreach, school programs, and ongoing support.
Our Vision
A world where every person who could benefit from a service or facility dog has access to one—regardless of their background, ability, or financial circumstances.
Our History
Canines for Change was founded in 2005 by Dr. Nikki Brown, a school psychologist in the Lansing School District. After witnessing how her Corgi positively impacted students with special needs, Dr. Brown began training dogs to support children at home as well.
In 2014, the Epilepsy Association of Western and Central Pennsylvania (EAWCP) began sponsoring seizure-response dogs through its Oscar Project, a partnership that continues today.
By 2018, Canines for Change placed its first veteran service dog team, launching an ongoing effort to provide service dogs to veterans at no cost.
In 2021, the Grand Ledge Public School District partnered with Canines for Change to place facility dogs in all nine of its school buildings.
Since then, the facility dog program has taken root not only in schools, but also in mental health centers, child advocacy organizations, and additional Michigan school districts—with more partnerships growing each year.
Since its founding, Canines for Change has trained and placed dogs for seizure alert, diabetes, mobility support, autism assistance, and facility work—serving clients and communities across the country.
Our Values
Our Commitment to Inclusion is more than a value—it’s a foundation. At Canines for Change, we are dedicated to serving people of all backgrounds and abilities. Our Board, volunteers, and sponsors strive to create a welcoming, equitable community for everyone—regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, income level, national origin, religion, marital or veteran status.
This commitment shapes all of our work, along with the following core values:
Compassion – We treat every person and animal with empathy, kindness, and respect.
Service – We empower individuals and communities through life-changing dog partnerships.
Integrity – We commit to honesty, transparency, and accountability in all we do.
Collaboration – We believe lasting impact comes from working together—with clients, families, volunteers, and partners.
Why It Matters
“Raisin has made my life a million times better. At times when my seizures have been the worst, she has given me more confidence when my family is not around and I feel safer with her by my side. When I was in the hospital during Covid my family was not able to visit me but having Raisin with me helped me feel less scared and happy to have a friend with me.”
— Angelo P.
