The_Hero_Academy

09/03/2026

To our Bonds of Service Committee: thank you for the time, heart, and hard work you pour into NSAM.

Your dedication strengthens our community and sets an example for us all.

We appreciate you.

09/03/2026

08/17/2026

08/04/2026

One year. Countless lives changed.

Today, we celebrate and thank Marie Anh as she completes an incredible year of volunteer service with The Hero Academy.

Over the past year, Marie generously donated her time, heart, and talent to something far greater than herself. She helped give dogs from shelters a second chance, patiently training them over months to become service dogs and Community Resource K9s. Each dog represented hope, healing, and a future partnership that would go on to support veterans, first responders, schools, hospitals, and communities across the country.

One of the hardest parts of this work is pouring your heart into a dog, only to lovingly hand them over to the handler whose life they are meant to change. Marie did that time and time again—with grace, professionalism, and unwavering dedication. Because of her commitment, our organization is stronger, our handlers are better supported, and countless lives have been touched by the dogs she helped prepare.

Thank you, Marie, for every early morning, every long training day, every shelter dog you believed in, and every life you helped change. Your kindness, work ethic, and servant’s heart have left an imprint on this organization that will not be forgotten.

As you begin your next chapter, we hope you know how deeply appreciated you are. You deserve every opportunity, every success, and every blessing that comes your way. Thank you for making the world a little better simply by choosing to serve others.

We’ll be cheering you on every step of the way. ❤️

With gratitude,

The Hero Academy

Service dogs volunteerism rescue dogs community resource canines dog training kindness veterans first responders mental health

08/04/2026

🐾 Want to help raise the next generation of service dogs? Here's an easy way to make a difference. 🇺🇸

We have officially launched the Hero Labradors Walmart Spark Good Registry!

Every extraordinary service dog begins with an extraordinary beginning. Before these puppies can change the life of a veteran, first responder, or person with a disability, they need food, toys, cleaning supplies, training equipment, and veterinary care.

We've created a registry filled with the everyday items that help us raise healthy, confident Labrador puppies before they begin their service dog journey.

Whether you choose a bag of puppy food, a toy, cleaning supplies, or another item, every purchase goes directly toward caring for our future service dogs.

Even if you're not in a position to give right now, sharing this post helps introduce Hero Labradors to others who may want to support our mission.

🛒 View our Walmart Registry here:
https://www.walmart.com/registry/RR/2b618df9-dd13-44b4-b975-9e022af508f0

Thank you for helping us give these incredible puppies the best possible start. ❤️🐶

Because every extraordinary service dog begins with an extraordinary beginning.

08/03/2026

So proud of beautiful service dog STORM!!!!
Once a throwaway Texas dog for the Rio Grande Valley . Now a well trained girl making a difference in her PA community. Born to make a difference!!!

07/15/2026

Some of the most meaningful work our dogs do happens far beyond a training field.

This week, we were honored to support one of our Community Resource K9 teams during a visit to our nation’s capital, where they accompanied a group of inner-city youth exploring the Smithsonian museums.
Community Resource K9s are more than ambassadors—they help create connection, reduce stress, build trust, and provide a steady, reassuring presence in new environments. Sometimes the greatest impact comes from simply being there.
We are proud to stand alongside the agencies and professionals investing in the next generation and grateful for every opportunity to demonstrate how working dogs can strengthen resilience, support wellness, and bring communities together.
Thank you for allowing us to be a small part of such an inspiring day.
YouthEngagement Smithsonian WashingtonDC TherapyDogs BuildingTrust ServiceThroughDogs

06/18/2026

A quick shoutout to Marie Anh for all the hard work she’s been putting in behind the scenes with The Hero Academy.

Over the past year, Marie has dedicated countless volunteer hours helping train our service dogs and Community Resource K9s that will go on to serve veterans, first responders, and communities across the country. Her commitment, enthusiasm, and willingness to jump in wherever needed have been a tremendous asset to our team.

We’re especially excited about the progress being made with Trix, JD, and Honey as they continue working toward graduation later this year.

Thank you, Marie, for being part of the journey. We have much more to accomplish together, and we’re looking forward to what the rest of the year brings.

Stay tuned for Open Training Days coming soon!

06/07/2026