In 2010, a veteran who was suicidal reached out to our founder, Army veteran and Master Canine Educator, Mary Cortani. He'd been on a list for three years waiting to be matched with a service dog. Mary knew with her canine expertise, military experience and passion for helping others she could make a difference. When Mary answered that call, she found her calling and Operation Freedom Paws was born

Operation Freedom Paws is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers veterans, children and other individuals with disabilities to restore their freedom to live life. We teach our clients to train a rescued dog, and together, become certified service dog teams. Service dogs help our clients cope with everything from PTSD, traumatic brain injuries and depression to seizures and mobility issues. As of June 2025, we have been honored to serve 590+ individuals, over 2,700 family members and rescued 400+ dogs from shelters.

We're committed to providing our 48-week training program to our clients including: service dogs, mental health therapy, veterinarian visits, physical rehabilitation equipment, temporary housing, transportation and a safe place to go 24/7- at no cost to them. Our clients continue to receive our support and community for a lifetime. 

We believe in the power of community to amplify the good work we can do for our clients. Where their lives are no longer defined by trauma and pain, but by who they are. We hope you'll join the OFP community and together help us save two lives, one team at a time. 

For media inquiries contact media@operationfreedompaws.org

Operation Freedom Paws

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Operation Freedom Paws

Org chart

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