Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about the Wonder Pup Foundation, our programs, and how you can help.
For Donors
Your donation directly supports our three core pillars: counseling to help children process grief and trauma, a trained companion dog to provide comfort and stability at home, and jiu-jitsu training to build confidence, discipline, and community. Together, these pillars provide both immediate support and a long-term path forward for each child.
Your donation creates real, tangible impact. $150 sponsors one counseling session. $2,000 covers a full year of jiu-jitsu training. $8,000 provides a professionally trained companion dog. $13,000 or more fully supports one child through our entire program. Every dollar moves a child closer to healing, stability, and confidence.
On average, it costs $13,000 or more to fully support one child through our program, including counseling, a trained dog, and jiu-jitsu training. This allows donors to clearly see the impact of their contribution, whether they give a portion or sponsor an entire child.
Yes. The Wonder Pup Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and all donations are tax-deductible. You will receive an official donation receipt for your records.
Yes. We believe in transparency and accountability. Donors can stay connected through social media updates, email newsletters, and stories and milestones from the families we serve.
We serve children and families of first responders who were killed in the line of duty. Our mission is to support these families through healing, structure, and community during one of the most difficult times in their lives.
Yes. Recurring donations allow us to plan and expand our impact. You may also choose to sponsor a full or partial program for a child, helping directly provide the resources they need.
Yes. You can support the mission by sharing our story, partnering as a business or organization, or volunteering to help us expand our reach. Every form of support helps us reach more families.
For Families
We serve families of first responders who have been killed in the line of duty. Each family is reviewed individually to ensure we can provide the most meaningful and appropriate support.
No. All services provided by the Wonder Pup Foundation, including counseling, the companion dog, and jiu-jitsu training, are fully covered for the families we serve.
Families can apply through our website or be referred by a department, organization, or trusted partner. Once submitted, our team will guide you through the next steps.
Timelines vary based on each family’s needs and readiness. Our goal is to move as quickly as possible while ensuring every part of the program is properly matched and delivered.
We provide up to eight weeks of counseling sessions with a licensed professional. Sessions are scheduled based on your availability to ensure they fit your family’s needs.
Yes. All counseling services are provided by licensed professionals experienced in working with children and families dealing with trauma and loss.
We work to match each family with the right dog for their specific needs. All dogs are sourced through trusted shelters or breeders and receive two months of professional training for reliable obedience. If your family has allergies or specific requirements, we will do our best to accommodate those needs.
We understand every family moves at a different pace. We will work with you individually and can revisit placement when you feel ready.
We place dogs with the intention of a lifelong commitment, but we understand that circumstances can change. If needed, we ask that you contact us first so we can help guide you toward responsible rehoming options and resources.
The program includes a full year of training at a trusted local gym, along with the necessary gear. This provides children with structure, mentorship, and a positive community environment.
Jiu-jitsu is one part of our program, not a requirement. Our mission is to support the whole child and family through counseling, a companion dog, and a strong support system. If they choose to train in the future, we will accommodate them.