SD Gunner Fund

12/22/2024

🐾 The History of the Service Dog: A Tale of Loyalty and Dedication 🐾

Service dogs have been transforming lives for over a century. Their journey began in the early 1900s, when guide dogs were trained to assist blind veterans after World War I. Over time, their roles expanded to include support for individuals with a variety of disabilities.

These incredible dogs provide assistance in countless ways—guiding those with visual impairments, alerting individuals with hearing loss, detecting medical conditions like seizures, and even offering emotional support for PTSD and anxiety. Their dedication highlights the profound bond between humans and dogs.

At SD Gunner Fund, we’re proud to honor and support this legacy by connecting service dogs with those who need them most. Each dog-human partnership is a story of hope, independence, and resilience.

Let’s celebrate the vital role of service dogs in our community. Your support—whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness—helps us continue this life-changing mission.

🐾 Together, we are stronger. 🐾

12/20/2024

🎁🎄🌟SD Gunner Fund Holiday Blessings Program Update!🌟🎄🎁

We are thrilled to share that, with the incredible support of Eric Chini and Coastal Event Rentals, Jay Williams and Richmond Hill Auto Care, Brandon Lowe and DBM Roofing, as well as the generosity of all our donors, the SD Gunner Fund has been able to make a monumental difference this holiday season.

Thanks to these amazing partners and supporters, we were able to decrease the medical debt of 8 families with special needs children at Chatterbox Pediatric Therapy. The 2024 Holiday Blessings Program was created to provide relief, hope, and joy to families facing financial challenges, and your contributions have made that vision a reality.

Your kindness and compassion have directly impacted these families, easing their burdens and spreading holiday cheer. Together, we are making a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most.

If you'd like to help us continue this impactful work, please consider donating at: https://givebutter.com/2024SDGFHolidayBlessings

Every contribution, big or small, brings us closer to helping more families in need.

From all of us at the SD Gunner Fund, thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Let’s continue to spread love and blessings this holiday season! 🎄💙

12/20/2024

🎄🌟 Holiday Cheer and Gratitude to Coastal Pediatric Therapies! 🌟🎄

This holiday season, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Coastal Pediatric Therapies, our Everyday Hero Sponsor, for their incredible support of the SD Gunner Fund! 🐾💙

Serving families in southside Savannah, Coastal Pediatric Therapies provides outstanding occupational, physical, feeding, and speech therapy services in a welcoming, kid-friendly environment. From engaging play to sensory-rich activities, they go above and beyond to help children grow, learn, and thrive.

We are proud to partner with such a compassionate and dedicated team as we work together to bring life-changing resources to children, families, and communities. 💫 Together, we’re making brighter futures possible—one child at a time.

Learn more about their amazing work at www.coastalpediatrictherapies.com.

12/19/2024

🎄🌟 A Heartfelt Holiday Thank You to Chatterbox Pediatrics! 🌟🎄

This December, we’re especially thankful for the unwavering support of Chatterbox Pediatrics for the SD Gunner Fund and our Therapy Dog Program! 🐾💙

Chatterbox Pediatrics is dedicated to helping children in the Savannah area thrive by providing exceptional speech, occupational, and physical therapy services. Their commitment to empowering children aligns perfectly with our mission.

Thanks to their generous support, our Therapy Dog Program continues to grow—bringing comfort, joy, and confidence to children during therapy sessions and beyond. 🐶✨ Together, we’re making a difference for these young heroes, one wagging tail at a time!

Learn more about their incredible work at chatterboxpeds.com.

12/19/2024

🎄 This Holiday Season, Let’s Reach Out 🎄

The holidays can be a joyful time for many, but for some veterans, it can be a season of deep loneliness and struggle. Sadly, on average, 17 veterans a day lose their lives to su***de. 💔

This season, let’s come together as a community to show our veterans they are not alone. Here’s what you can do:

💙 Check In: A simple call or message can remind someone they matter.
💙 Offer Support: Listen without judgment and offer to connect them with resources.
💙 Spread Awareness: Share this message to encourage others to reach out.

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing 1, or text 838255.

Together, we can make a difference. Let’s ensure no veteran feels forgotten this holiday season.

12/18/2024

ALL Veterans with Service Dogs !! We need your help.

Good afternoon,

There is a student doing a project for her research class on service dog breeds and whether it correlates with assisting veterans. She made an 8 question multiple choice Google survey asking about each owners service dog, and has asked if all veterans could complete the survey. The surveys will remain anonymous. Please complete the survey below at your earliest convenience.

12/18/2024

12/18/2024

Did You Know? 🐾

Service dogs provide life-changing support for veterans, first responders, and individuals with disabilities, from guiding the visually impaired to calming PTSD symptoms. But did you know training one service dog can cost up to $30,000?

That’s why we work hard at SD Gunner Fund to ensure these incredible dogs reach those who need them most—at no cost to their families. 💙

12/17/2024

Did you know facility animal programs have grown exponentially over the last two decades? 👇

From comforting patients to supporting staff, facility animals are making a profound impact on wellness and care.

Programs like Mayo Clinic's Caring Canines and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta's Canines for Kids have paved the way for this essential work. 👏

🔗 Explore the growth, best practices, and future of facility animal programs in our new Facility Animals Whitepaper: https://bit.ly/4isTJJP

12/17/2024

🍴🎁 A Big Thank You to Texas Roadhouse - Pooler! 🎁🍴

We’re so grateful to Texas Roadhouse - Pooler for their generous support of SD Gunner Fund and their commitment to giving back to the community. Your partnership helps us continue to make a difference for veterans, first responders, and children with disabilities.

Next time you’re in the mood for a delicious meal, stop by Texas Roadhouse in Pooler and enjoy their legendary food while supporting a business that supports our mission!

Learn more about their location here: https://www.texasroadhouse.com/locations/586-poolerga

12/17/2024

🎄✨ A Holiday Thank You to Coastal Integrity Marketing! ✨🎄

This December, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to Coastal Integrity Marketing for their incredible support of SD Gunner Fund and their commitment to giving back to our community.

If you’re looking for personalized marketing solutions, Katie is your go-to specialist for marketing and branding expertise that’s tailored to fit your unique needs. She truly understands the power of individuality and delivers solutions that make a difference.

Thank you, Katie, for your generosity and for helping us continue our mission this holiday season! 💙

Learn more about Coastal Integrity Marketing here: https://www.facebook.com/coastalintegritymarketing

12/16/2024

👮‍♂️ Protecting Those Who Protect Us: Mental Health Awareness for Police Officers

Last week, our Executive Director, Britnee Kinard, had the incredible opportunity to do a ride-along with the Georgia State Patrol. Witnessing firsthand the daily challenges law enforcement officers face was both eye-opening and humbling.

Our officers are not just enforcers of the law—they are human beings carrying the weight of intense stress, trauma, and life-or-death decisions every single day. From responding to emergencies to witnessing the worst of humanity, these heroes endure immense mental and emotional strain. Yet, mental health resources and community understanding often fall short.

At SD Gunner Fund, we are committed to addressing this need. We aim to provide support, education, and resources to promote the mental well-being of our law enforcement officers. Whether through therapy, peer support networks, or service animals trained to help manage PTSD and anxiety, we stand by those who put their lives on the line for us.

Let’s work together to break the stigma surrounding mental health in law enforcement. Let’s recognize the sacrifices they make and create a community that not only values but actively supports their well-being.

12/16/2024

Open Enrollment is here! 🩺 Now through January 15, 2025, Georgians can select the health insurance plans that best meet their needs. A huge thank you to Jessica Holder for supporting SD Gunner Fund and for her dedication to helping veterans, first responders, and families navigate the complexities of insurance.

Jessica takes the time to provide personalized solutions, ensuring your coverage fits your needs and budget—because there’s no “one size fits all.” She’s not just your insurance agent; she’s your advocate, educating clients on how to use their policies wisely and avoid unnecessary costs at medical facilities.

Don’t miss this opportunity to secure your health coverage for 2025! Visit Jessica’s website to learn more: https://www.jessicaholderinsurance.com/.

12/15/2024

National Cupcake Day 🧁🐾: A Sweet Treat, But Not for Your Pup!

Cupcakes are a delicious indulgence for us, but did you know they can be harmful to dogs? Ingredients like chocolate, artificial sweeteners (like xylitol), and excessive sugar are toxic to our furry friends.

Instead, whip up a dog-safe "pupcake" using ingredients like peanut butter, pumpkin, and oats! Celebrate safely while keeping your pup happy and healthy.

12/15/2024

A big shoutout to Port City Animal for their incredible support of SD Gunner Fund! 🐾

Their dedication to providing top-notch care for pets in our community is truly unmatched. If you're looking for compassionate, professional care for your furry friends, we can’t recommend Port City Animal enough! 💙

Check them out here: https://www.portcitypets.com/

12/14/2024

🎉 We Won! 🎉

We are thrilled to announce that SD Gunner Fund has been named a Best of Georgia 2024 winner! 🏆 This incredible honor reflects the unwavering support of our community, volunteers, and partners who make our mission possible every day.

Thank you for believing in what we do and for helping us make a difference for veterans, first responders, and children with disabilities. Together, we’re achieving greatness! 💙

Check us out and see all the winners at BestofGeorgia.com.

12/14/2024

🐕‍🦺 Did You Know? Service dogs can be trained to assist with mobility challenges, like opening doors, picking up dropped items, or providing balance support. They help their handlers gain independence and confidence every day!

12/14/2024

🎁The Best Holiday Gift: Giving to Others🎁

The holidays are all about joy, love, and togetherness. But the best gift you can give this season is the one you give to others. Here’s why:

🎄It Brings True Joy: Helping someone in need fills your heart in a way no wrapped present ever could.

🎄It Builds Gratitude: Giving helps you appreciate all the blessings you already have.

🎄It Strengthens Community: Whether it’s donating, volunteering, or simply lending a hand, giving connects us to those around us.

🎄It Inspires Others: Your generosity can spark a ripple effect, encouraging others to spread kindness, too.

This holiday season, you can make a difference by supporting the SD Gunner Fund through our Holiday Blessings campaign. Every donation helps us provide for those in need and spread holiday cheer.

🌟Give the gift of kindness today: https://givebutter.com/2024SDGFHolidayBlessings🌟

Let’s work together to make this season brighter for everyone!