In the small town of Chatham, Illinois, healing continues after an unthinkable tragedy struck on April 28, when a vehicle crashed into the YNOT Outdoors Summer and After School Camp. The devastating incident claimed the lives of five young children, shaking the entire community to its core—from families and children to educators, first responders, and local residents.

In the aftermath, Lutheran Church Charities responded swiftly, sending teams from its K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion (HMC) to provide solace, presence, and the comfort of Christ during a time of overwhelming grief.

Last week, as the children of YNOT Camp returned for the first time to the building where the tragedy occurred, the Comfort Dog teams were there once again—ready to support, listen, and simply be present.

A Healing Return to YNOT
Roughly 70 children were welcomed back with wagging tails and open arms. Handlers and Comfort Dogs arrived on-site Wednesday and Thursday, June 11 and 12, between 3:00 and 5:30 p.m., to coincide with afternoon programming. This visit was specifically requested by Alison Loftus of YNOT Outdoors, recognizing the potential emotional difficulty for the children revisiting the site of the traumatic event.
LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Dinah (Trinity - Auburn, Illinois), Michael (LCC Staff), Noah (Timothy - St. Louis, Missouri), Tabby (St. Paul’s - Des Peres, Missouri), and LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry Dog Britta (LCC Staff) were accompanied by a team of compassionate handlers.

Roxy, a handler reflected: “Today’s visit was well received. The children had a full day of off-site activities, and when they returned, the Comfort Dogs were waiting. The resilience of these children is amazing.” Roxy shared that Dinah Comfort Dog was exhausted from all the attention but kept her tail wagging the entire time. “Some children even did a survey to find which dog had the softest ears,” she added with a smile.

Many children shared stories about their own pets, asked questions about the dogs, and collected the special “calling cards” each Comfort Dog carries. One child even asked for an extra card for her sister, who couldn't attend.

“These children are resilient,” said another volunteer. “They’re coping, talking, laughing, and connecting. It’s humbling to be a part of their healing process.”

A Community Embraced
For Chatham, the return of the LCC Comfort Dogs was a symbol of continued presence, love, and faith. The teams didn’t just show up—they remembered, they listened, and they returned when it mattered most.

As the children of YNOT Outdoors slowly step back into routines shaped by both joy and sorrow, they are surrounded by a community—and by four-legged friends—who remind them they are not alone.

A Dream Fulfilled, A Life Sacrificed
All Krystal Rivera ever wanted was to be a police officer. That dream came true in 2021 when she was sworn into the Chicago Police Department. Officer Rivera quickly became a beloved presence in the 6th District, known for her dedication, her heart, and her deep love for her 10-year-old daughter, Bella.

On June 5, 2025, Officer Rivera was killed in the line of duty during a foot pursuit in Chatham. She had served with distinction for four years. Her tragic death sent waves of sorrow through her fellow officers, her family, and the wider community she served so faithfully.

A Community in Mourning, United in Prayer
Hundreds gathered outside the Gresham District police station on Wednesday, June 11, for a solemn prayer vigil to honor Officer Rivera’s memory. Friends, family, and community members stood side-by-side with dozens of Chicago police officers—some in uniform, others wearing shirts bearing Rivera’s image. CPD Chaplain Rev. Kimberly Lewis-Davis encouraged all present to lean into their faith for healing and strength.

A Ministry of Presence: LCC Offers Support and Hope 
Among the mourners was Lutheran Church Charities, whose compassionate presence brought hope and spiritual care to both officers and grieving family members. Responding to a request from the Chicago Police Department, LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry teams attended roll call for the officers of the 6th District and stood with the community at the vigil.

Rev. Chris Singer, LCC President and CEO, was present alongside dedicated teams that included LCC Comfort Dogs Gethsemane & Tobias (Lord of Glory - Grayslake - IL), Michael (LCC Staff), and LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry Dog Nigel (LCC Staff), each accompanied by their trained handlers.

Also in attendance was Tim Laabs, Project Manager for Hearts of Mercy & Compassion, who helped facilitate the meaningful tribute with the Heart and Cross memorials. Together, this team provided comfort through their calm presence, empathetic conversations, and unwavering support, reminding all who gathered that they were not alone in their grief.

One of the most profound moments came from young Bella, Officer Rivera's daughter. Initially hesitant to join others, she lit up when she saw the dogs. Jeanette, one of the handlers, shared that Bella—still reeling from celebrating her birthday just days after her mother’s passing—found a moment of joy as she bonded with Gethsemane. “She is hurting and has a long road ahead,” Jeanette said, “but she smiled and enjoyed the moment. One of the officers stated that the dogs made all the difference today for Bella. God is good!”

Handlers stayed close to the family, walking with them through grief. Jenni shared, “I was surprised at the level of access we had to Krystal’s daughter. She lit up when she met our sweet dogs. That connection—that was God.” She also spoke with Officer Rivera’s friends and coworkers, recognizing the enduring support system that would surround Bella.

Hearts of Mercy, Messages of Love
At the heart of the vigil—both literally and figuratively—stood the Hearts of Mercy & Compassion. Tim Laabs brought one heart and cross for public messages and another to be gifted to Officer Rivera’s family.
Messages like “I will forever miss your good mornings and talking about our girls,” and “Powerpuffs for life” reflected the deep affection and camaraderie Rivera inspired. Other notes offered encouragement: “The pain you feel is all the love you poured into Krystal,” and “May God lift you.”

The second heart, passed among Rivera’s fellow officers, bore signatures and sentiments like “We love you and we will always miss you!” and “Great officer—and a BETTER friend.” When complete, the heart was presented to the family by CPD Commander Michael Tate and LCC President Chris Singer. “You are in our hearts and prayers as you grieve the loss of such a wonderful daughter, mom, and officer,” Singer said.

Answering the Call to Bring Hope for the Hurting
Each handler present shared how divine timing and meaningful conversations unfolded throughout the day. Danielle reflected, “It isn’t always about the experiences you expect—it’s the connections that happen when you show up.” Valerie added, “To be there to love on those who knew and loved Officer Rivera was a blessing.”

Jim, another handler, summed it up best:
“What I experienced yesterday was one of God’s miracles. The love, compassion, and mercy displayed by everyone present could not have occurred without divine intervention. The Comfort Dogs brought mercy. The officers brought love. And the community brought honor. It was a beautiful thing to behold.”

In the face of unspeakable grief, the ministry of Lutheran Church Charities offered a tangible expression of God's comfort. Through Comfort Dogs, Hearts of Mercy & Compassion, and the quiet faith of those present, they helped carry a community through a moment of heartbreak—reminding all that love, indeed, still lives.

Support the ongoing ministry of Lutheran Church Charities as we bring hope and healing to first responders, families, and communities in crisis. Together, we can be a light in the darkest moments.

In the quiet of a Friday evening, the Baldwin Park, CA, community gathered with heavy hearts to remember a beloved public servant. Officer Samuel Riveros—a devoted husband, father, and dedicated member of the Baldwin Park Police Department—was honored at a solemn vigil on June 6, just days after his End of Watch on Saturday, May 31, 2025.

Officer Riveros’s passing has left a profound void in the Baldwin Park Police Department and in the lives of those who knew and loved him. In response to the collective grief, the community was joined by a unique team of comfort and compassion: the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry.

A Gentle Touch in a Time of Pain
The vigil became more than just a tribute—it became a moment of healing. LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Lois (First Good Shepherd - Las Vegas, Nevada), Micah (Light of the Valley - Elk Grove, California), and Salome (Faith Community - Las Vegas, Nevada), alongside their trained handlers offered silent support through warm eyes, soft fur, and a calming presence. The team helped create a space where officers, family members, and friends could begin to release the sorrow and shock that accompanies the loss of one of their own.

James Casner, the Heart of Mercy & Compassion ministry representative and point person for the visit, reflected, “It never ceases to amaze me the tremendous opportunity we have to bond with our fellow human beings when we are out with our Comfort Dogs. We can help carry the burden of others… with our dogs as a bridge to sharing, listening, or sitting in silence.”

Support Beyond the Frontlines
The ministry’s outreach extended beyond the vigil. The team also visited the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner—often an overlooked group of first responders who bear the weight of tragedy behind closed doors. Both shifts of staff at the coroner’s office welcomed the time to simply sit, talk, and decompress with the dogs. Smiles surfaced. Shoulders eased. And, for a moment, healing began.

One particularly moving moment came with a lieutenant from the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Investigators. “Her team deals with so much,” a handler shared. “She really needed the time to sit with the dogs and love on them and be loved in return.” The lieutenant had recently lost her own dog, making the visit all the more meaningful.

A Community United in Grief and Grace
In tragedy, Baldwin Park found a moment of peace through the quiet empathy of Comfort Dogs. Their presence reminded everyone—from uniformed officers to grieving citizens—that no one walks through grief alone.

LCC was blessed to have six affiliates from six states at the Replacement Handler Training last weekend:
 
·       Faith Community, Las Vegas, NV
·       Immanuel, Valparaiso, IN
·       Island Lutheran, Hilton Head, SC
·       Redeemer, Spokane Valley, WA
·       Shepherd of the Hills, Greenville, WI
·       St. Paul, Fort Worth, TX
 
LCC is happy to welcome these wonderful individuals who have been called to go out and serve in their communities and share the mercy, compassion, presence, and proclamation of Jesus Christ to those hurting and in need.  
These new and dedicated volunteers spent a lot of time learning new handling skills and building their knowledge about the ministry. Each handler worked with either their affiliate’s dog or with a LCC K-9 Comfort Dog in training. The new handlers also spent time praying together and becoming a family in Christ. 
 
We are excited to introduce the following new handlers who are now part of the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry:

• Laurie Anderson
  St. Paul, Fort Worth, TX – LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Olive
• June Brault 
  Immanuel, Valparaiso, IN – LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Caleb
• Andrew Ebert
  Shepherd of the Hills, Greenville, WI – LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Samaria
• Melanie Ebert
  Shepherd of the Hills, Greenville, WI – LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Samaria
• Becky Ehler
  Faith Community, Las Vegas, NV – LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Salome
• Andrew Chaplin
  Faith Community, Las Vegas, NV – LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Salome
• Linda Neumann
  Shepherd of the Hills, Greenville, WI – LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Samaria
• Bob Sanders
  Redeemer, Spokane, WA – LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Isaac
• Jill Welsh
  Immanuel, Valparaiso, IN – LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Caleb
• Kevin Williams
  ​Island, Hilton Head, SC – Zoara Kare 9 Military Ministry Dog 

 
Additionally, Lutheran Church Charities is honored to welcome United States Air Force veteran Kevin Williams to the LCC Kare-9 Military Ministry.

We give thanks for each of these new handlers and pray for their continued strength and faith as they go out to share God’s love and comfort through this special ministry.

When the leaders at Lord Of Glory Lutheran Church in Grayslake, IL, decided to pursue a second Lutheran Church Charities K-9 Comfort Dog, they knew it would be nearly a 2-year wait to meet their new canine. 

Eight days after that meeting, Gethsemane was born: July 6, 2023. 

On Sunday, after nearly two years of training, Gethsemane Comfort Dog officially joined Lord Of Glory, commissioned to bring her furry friendliness to the church’s ministry work and to share the mercy, compassion, presence, and proclamation of Jesus Christ. She is ready to share compassion and comfort to those who are hurting, lonely, or in need of a little tail-wagging encouragement.

Twelve other LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs from three states traveled to celebrate the beautiful occasion, including Gethsemane’s Lord Of Glory ministry partner Tobias Comfort Dog. 

“I am looking forward to serving alongside so many of the teams that joined us to celebrate this special moment in my story,” Team Gethsemane shared on her Facebook account. “Thank you to everyone who supported me to get to this day.”

On hand to join the celebration were:

Abednego Comfort Dog, Immanuel Lutheran Crystal Lake, IL
Caleb Comfort Dog, Immanuel Lutheran Valparaiso, IN
Charity Comfort Dog, Brookfield Lutheran Brookfield, WI
Grace Comfort Dog, LCC Staff
Hannah Comfort Dog, LCC Staff
Julia Comfort Dog, King Of Glory Lutheran Elgin, IL
Mary Comfort Dog, St. Paul Lutheran Janesville, WI
Myra Comfort Dog, St. Andrews Lutheran Park Ridge, IL
Rejoice Comfort Dog, St. Paul Lutheran Janesville, WI
Samson Comfort Dog, Zion Lutheran Marengo, IL
Shadrach Comfort Dog, Prince Of Peace Lutheran Palatine, IL
Tobias Comfort Dog, Lord Of Glory Grayslake, IL
 
“It was the day we have looked forward to for many months,” said Nichole Todd, top dog for Team Gethsemane. “We can’t wait to see how God works through Gethsemane to bring comfort and connection in our community — and wherever we are called to serve.”

Training with Purpose
Apprentice Trainers commit to raising a Comfort Dog in training for 18 to 24 months, guiding them through early socialization, obedience training, and consistent daily care. Each dog completes more than 2,000 hours of preparation before being placed in ministry—and behind every hour is a volunteer answering God's call.

Becky Kolzow, an LCC K-9 Trainer for seven years, reflects on just how vital these volunteers are to the mission: “Without the apprentice trainers opening their homes and their hearts... we would not be able to place as many dogs as we do.”

Apprentice Trainers don’t just shape the dogs—they’re shaped by the experience themselves. Patience deepens, faith grows, and hearts open.

Whether in classrooms or community centers, grocery stores or grief groups, Joan has witnessed how Comfort Dogs open hearts. “It’s amazing how many times someone starts petting the dog and then shares something personal. The dog just lets them release that.”

Growing in Faith, Walking in Love

The act of training a Comfort Dog is deeply relational and spiritual. Every walk, every command, every interaction becomes an opportunity to reflect Christ’s love—and be transformed by it.

Gina Grant shared how the ministry has drawn her closer to God:
“This work has helped me focus on how God calls us to serve others with humility and grace. There are days when training is hard, but then I think about what this dog will do one day, and I find strength in prayer and purpose.”

For Chris Jensen, training Comfort Dogs has been a daily spiritual practice:
“When I pray before we head out for training or visits, I’m reminded that we are not just walking a dog—we are walking into someone’s life. I’ve learned to listen better, to be present, and to trust God more fully.”

Faith becomes action, and action deepens faith.

Strengthening Relationships, Building Community
The LCC K-9 Ministry doesn’t just transform the dogs or their trainers—it weaves together a community rooted in love and support.

Joan B. Katterjohn, a retired teacher, found not just purpose, but people:
“I have made deep friendships with other trainers and handlers. We share joys, frustrations, and prayers. You don’t do this work alone—you become part of a family.”

She’s also seen how her connection with each dog has been a bridge to others:
“When people stop to pet the dog, they often open up about personal struggles. It’s a moment of real connection. And I’m always amazed at how God uses those simple interactions to do something powerful.”

Chris echoed that sentiment:
“This ministry has connected me with people I never would have met otherwise—from fellow trainers to the strangers who stop us in the park. Each conversation, each encounter, has reminded me that God is always working.”

Lives Forever Changed
Apprentice Trainers are essential to the mission of Lutheran Church Charities, preparing future Comfort Dogs that will one day walk into the lives of those who need God’s love the most.

Being an Apprentice Trainer means more than teaching a dog to sit, stay, or heel. It means learning to listen to the Holy Spirit, to trust God’s timing, and to love without condition. It’s an invitation to walk by faith—sometimes literally—with a future Comfort Dog by your side.

As apprentice trainer Chris Jensen shared,
“This ministry has changed me. You can’t give this much of yourself and not be changed. God uses these dogs to grow us, just as we help grow them.”

In a world often filled with noise, confusion, and pain, the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry brings a clear message: you are not alone, you are loved, and God sees you. Our trainers help carry that message—one paw, one prayer, one person at a time.

And while the Comfort Dogs go on to serve communities across the country, the trainers are never left unchanged. Their hearts are expanded. Their faith is deepened. Their lives are blessed.
They are ordinary people who choose to say “yes” to an extraordinary calling—and their lives are richer for it.

So when God asks, “Whom shall I send?” They answer—not with hesitation, but with humble courage:
“Here I am. Send me.”

Interested in becoming an Apprentice Trainer?

LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Weekly Training Classes are held in
Northbrook, Illinois and East Dundee, Illinois. 
If you live within 50 miles radius of the training locations and would like more information about the volunteer commitment needed we invite you to learn more.

Visit https://www.lutheranchurchcharities.org/traink9s.html or contact us at [email protected]

You just might find that by raising a Comfort Dog, God raises something new in you too.

Since its founding in 2008, the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry has expanded across the country, with more than 130 dogs placed in churches, schools, and ministries in 27 states. 

With rooftops blown apart, homes devastated with damage, and tree limbs scattered across yards and streets, Missouri has endured a week and a half of severe weather and heavy hearts. From St. Louis to Springfield, communities across the state have been hit hard following multiple tornadoes and straight line windstorms. 

Lutheran Church Charities has been on the ground this week with Disaster Response, Human Care, and K-9 Comfort Dog teams to help local LCMS churches with damage assessments, chainsaw work, debris removal, food and resource distribution, and spiritual care and comfort. 
​

Disaster Response

In Springfield, Missouri, last week and into this week, Deaconess Kathy O’Day, LCC Director of Disaster Response, and Jason Johnson, LCC Disaster Response & Volunteer Engagement Coordinator, have been assessing damage from an EF-1 tornado with 95 to 100 mph winds, followed by a second storm with 80 mph straight-line winds. 

The damage is widespread with more than 200 households impacted, according to Katie Kovach, Green County Emergency Manager.

After weather delays on Memorial Day, LCC LERT volunteers arrived Tuesday to work with Hope Lutheran Church, Republic, Missouri, and Trinity Lutheran in Springfield — both are assisting with the volunteer camp at the Lutheran Student Center and providing meals for LCC LERT chainsaw volunteers who will serve until Saturday.

O’Day and Johnson report widespread devastation, with numerous homes and properties bearing the brunt of severe tree and structural damage. Among those affected was an elderly, disabled veteran whose property was left in ruins—12 massive trees toppled across his land, and his home suffered significant harm. On Tuesday, the teams used chainsaws to cut through the fallen trees and worked tirelessly to clear his property. He was very grateful for their help and mercy shown to him. As a heartfelt gesture, they presented him with a cross, lovingly carved from one of the downed trees and signed by each team member. Deeply moved by their kindness and the mercy shown to him, he expressed heartfelt gratitude for the help he never expected but desperately needed.

The man shared how frustrating it is that he can no longer take care of his own property. He expressed great thanks that LCC could send chainsaw volunteers to help him clean up his yard this week. O’Day said they met several elderly homeowners that are grateful for the offer of assistance and a willingness to listen to their stories.
 
In St. Louis, another crew of LCC Disaster Response chainsaw and lift volunteers have joined forces with other LERT volunteers from around the country to clear tree damage at Concordia Seminary, which was swept by an EF-3 tornado on May 16. Officials estimate that more than 100 trees were uprooted or leaning on the campus and nearby park. Some caused damage to the chapel and several dormitories and apartments on the grounds.

Faced with challenging cleanup maneuvers, crews have been using heavy equipment and lifts — even climbing trees — to remove fallen and dangerous branches and limbs off buildings and clearing walking pathways.

LCC Care Teams

Two LCC Care Teams partnered with Bethlehem Lutheran St. Louis to distribute food, blankets, and essential care items to individuals affected by the storms. With stores closed, these are among the first supplies to reach the residents in the area.

One team included members from Living Word Galena, Ohio, along with staff from LCC. The second Care Team was from Trinity Green Trails Lisle, Illinois. They distributed gift cards and children’s activity back packs, with grooming supplies, hygiene kits, toys, books, and a blanket.

As they served the community, they provided Spiritual First Aid™ to those in need of emotional and spiritual support to take their next steps in their journey to recovery and healing.

While assisting community members, LCC Care Team volunteers spoke with Wanda. She expressed deep gratitude, saying she believed God had carried them through everything. Speaking quickly and with urgency, Wanda explained that she was helping her 80-year-old neighbor, who couldn’t leave the house. She had come to the distribution center to pick up food and supplies for her, as no one else was offering assistance.

Though thankful, Wanda also voiced concern about how long it might take for her neighbor to feel safe and comfortable again. Her stressed body language was noticeable, so one of the Care Team members placed a hand on her arm gently and spoke to her softly. As she began to calm down, Wanda shared how much she appreciated the team's presence and said she believed God had sent them to help.

K-9 Comfort Dogs in action

On Sunday, LCC church affiliates St. Paul Des Peres, Missouri, and Timothy St. Louis, brought K-9 Comfort Dogs Tabby, Zion, and Noah to partner church Bethlehem St. Louis, which has served as a hub for community members, distributing food and supplies, operating as a call center, and welcoming those who need shelter. Rev. Dr. Gerard Bolling invited the community to attend the Sunday service and spend time cuddling with the comfort dogs.  

LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministries volunteers were:
Sheryl Schucart with K-9 Comfort Dog Zion
Ruth Agne with K-9 Comfort Dog Tabby
Ministry Partners Sue and Jon Burford with K-9 Comfort Dog Zion and Tabby
Glenn Nielsen with K-9 Comfort Dog Noah

At LCC, we never go where we are not invited. We never charge those we serve.
 
If you are compelled to give, please donate to the May 2025 Tornado Outbreak Response Fund. Thank you for being a part of the Mercy and Compassion Ministry of Lutheran Church Charities.

On Mother’s Day, a devastating fire tore through the Highland Court Apartments in Milwaukee, WI, claiming the lives of five residents and displacing nearly 100 more. In the aftermath of this tragedy, amid the rubble and grief, Lutheran Church Charities K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry and the Hearts of Mercy & Compassion (HMC) teams stepped in—not only to honor the lives lost but to bring hope and healing to the survivors.

On Memorial Day, the community gathered for a heartfelt vigil to remember the victims. Led by Red Cross Spiritual Care leader Catherine Neal and volunteer John Draper, the event aimed to reflect not only on national sacrifices but also on the personal, painful losses still unfolding in the shelter housing the displaced residents.

Recognizing the emotional toll, the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office extended a hand of compassion—bringing lunch and inviting the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs to join the vigil. LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Mary (St. Paul's - Janesville, Wisconsin), Samaria (Shepherd of the Hills - Greenville, Wisconsin), Tobias (Lord of Glory - Grayslake, Illinois), and Comfort Dog in Training Gethsemane with their dedicated volunteer handlers offered their calming presence to those overwhelmed by grief and trauma. The comfort dogs didn’t just comfort—they opened hearts. Survivors, many still reeling from the fire, found moments of peace and courage in their company.

What emerged was not just sorrow, but resilience. Residents opened up about the emotional bond they shared with their 90-year-old landlord, who had given many of them a second chance at housing and stood with them as flames consumed their homes. Their grief was not just for their belongings or lost neighbors, but also for the woman who had become family.

Hearts of Mercy for Hurting Souls
Recalling the impact the HMC ministry had on the community during a previous engagement in Waukesha, WI—following the 2021 Christmas Parade attack—Red Cross Spiritual Care leader Catherine Neal requested their presence in Milwaukee.

Debbie Endres, HMC Ministry Coordinator from Brookfield Lutheran, WI, and team member Mary Stafford-Nunez brought five Hearts of Mercy to honor each life lost. Survivors signed the hearts with heartfelt tributes—one remembering a man as “such a joy, always checking on people.” These symbolic blue hearts, filled with handwritten memories and love, will be presented to the families of the victims.

The simple yet profound act of sharing a memory and placing it on a heart brought comfort. It allowed residents to grieve together and begin healing—one name, one memory at a time.

A Ministry of Presence, A Message of Hope
LCC's presence reminded everyone that healing begins with being seen, heard, and loved. The Red Cross volunteers, themselves exhausted from weeks of support, welcomed the encouragement and care. As one K-9 handler observed, "They were so happy to have the comfort of the dogs and listening ears."

Though many survivors are still struggling to find stable housing and rebuild their lives, the spirit of hope remains strong. Their courage, faith, and gratitude were visible in every story shared, every tear shed, and every embrace exchanged with a gentle dog or a compassionate volunteer.

Join Us in Spreading Comfort and Compassion
Your support helps LCC Comfort Dogs and the Hearts of Mercy & Compassion teams continue to respond in times of crisis.

Together, we can continue to honor the lost, comfort the hurting, and bring hope where it’s needed most.

Recently, the Red Cross and the VA Center for Development and Civic Engagement (CDCE) came together to host an employee appreciation event at the Eastern Oklahoma VA Health Care System. It was a meaningful celebration of the dedicated, hard-working individuals who play a vital role in caring for our nation’s veterans and their families.

One of the most heartwarming highlights? LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Persis (King of Kings - Glenpool, Oklahoma) made a special appearance and  instantly stole the show.

With her calm demeanor and gentle presence, Persis brought smiles, comfort, and a sense of calm to everyone she met. She plays a vital role in supporting individuals who are experiencing stress, crisis, or trauma. Her visit added a unique and therapeutic touch to the event, creating meaningful moments of connection and joy.

Throughout the day, the Red Cross and CDCE emphasized the power of teamwork and the positive, lasting impact that each employee has on the lives of veterans. This thoughtful gesture of appreciation not only lifted spirits but also reinforced a strong sense of purpose and community among staff.

Sometimes, a wagging tail says it best — thank you, Persis, for reminding us of the healing power of comfort and compassion.

The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry was honored to participate in the 2025 MDA Muscle Walk held in Wheaton, IL. Hosted by the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), the event supports individuals and families affected by rare neuromuscular diseases. MDA continues its mission by funding critical research, improving access to specialized care, advocating for policy changes, and providing essential education and resources.