OUR MISSION
Paws for the Powerless was established in memory of Blake Schwarz, who tragically died by suicide in March 2023.
A key phrase that resonated with Blake was “Protect the Powerless,” reflecting his commitment to advocating for individuals facing mental health challenges and offering support to those in need. As part of our organization, we will select one individual to become the handler of a trained therapy dog after they complete their training and certification.
This partnership will allow the therapy dog to provide comfort and support to those who are struggling. Paws for the Powerless focuses on raising awareness about suicide and mental health issues. We offer fully trained and certified therapy dogs to individuals seeking hope and assistance during difficult times. Our mission is to create a supportive environment for those who may feel powerless.
We believe that “You can always find hope in a dog’s eyes.” - unknown.
Meet Kevin
Kevin is a Golden Retriever from Massbach Kennels out of Mount Caroll, Illinois.
He is a working line Retriever with his Sire from Italy and Dam from Belgium.
When Kevin isn’t working, he is adventuring through the woods, playing with his kids, chewing on anything he can get his mouth around, and cuddling with his family.
Kevin is currently training to receive his certification to become a licensed Therapy Dog. Upon completion and certification, we will be selecting a handler who will be able to allow Kevin to help as many people as possible. If interested please click the link below!
THE REAL NUMBERS
“20.17% of youth ages 12–17 reported experiencing at least one major depressive episode in the past year. "
— Mental Health America
“36% of respondents reported anxiety or panic attacks”
- Police1
How can a therapy dog help?
Improved Mood:
Studies have shown that therapy dogs can have a positive impact on mood, with some research indicating that participants who interacted with therapy dogs experienced a more positive affect.
-NIH
Positive Impact on Children with Autism:
Studies have reported significant increases in the social behaviors of children with Autism when animals are present in the classroom.
-UCLA health
“50% of mental health problems develop by age 14”
— NIHCM
Approximately 70% of adults worldwide experience a traumatic event in their lifetime.
— WHO
Enhanced Social Skills:
Therapy dogs can help individuals, especially children, improve their social skills and engage in social interactions.
-Science Direct
Improved Social Interactions:
Animal interaction can promote more social engagement with a therapist while reducing negative behaviors.
- NIH
Reduced Pain Perception: Some research suggests that interacting with therapy dogs can reduce pain perception, both physical and emotional.
-Smithsonian Magazine
Improved Mental Health:
70-90% of people see a significant improvement in their mental health with treatment, and 87% of pet owners believe their animals have a positive impact on their mental health.
- Dogster
Increased Motivation:
Therapy dogs can motivate students to socialize with peers and become more enthusiastic learners.
- Science Direct