In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Karen Meadows, Lead Trainer at Leashes of Valor, a nonprofit providing service dogs at no cost to wounded and disabled veterans. We’re also joined by Marty Copeland, a veteran whose life was transformed after being paired with his service dog, Darby Grace, and Geni Ligday, a foster parent whose family has a deep connection to the Army and a passion for helping future service dogs prepare for their mission.

Together, we explore:

• The unique mission of Leashes of Valor — including why they rescue many of their dogs from shelters
• Marty’s powerful story of resilience and how a service dog can restore independence and confidence
• The critical role of foster families and what fostering looks like day-to-day
• Geni’s personal journey and the emotional rewards of being a foster
• Karen’s perspective as head trainer and some of her most meaningful dog-veteran pairings
• The upcoming Fall in LOV Weekend — featuring the Valor Cup Golf Tournament and Tail as Old as Time Gala — and how you can get involved

This episode is packed with heartfelt stories, practical ways to support LOV’s mission, and an inside look at the life-changing impact of service dogs.

To learn more about Leashes of Valor:
Website: leashesofvalor.org
FB: https://www.facebook.com/LeashesofValor/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/leashesofvalor
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/leashes-of-valor/
YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/c/leashesofvalor

Thanks for listening to River City Podcast! A River City Consulting Production. To learn more about how your organization can be interviewed on the show, please visit River City Podcast online!