Since the completion of its new facility and campus, Hand in Paw (HIP) has been able to expand training of Therapy Teams, offer Advanced Training in the Children’s of Alabama Simulation Hospital room, and place more dedicated Therapy Teams in the community where their services are so needed.

Phase II of the Capital Campaign focused on capacity building to expand our services.  There are additional opportunities to be part of this legacy, including naming opportunities in the building and on the grounds of the HIP campus.

VPFunds recently accompanied HIP Volunteers and staff on a visit to Children’s of Alabama to see the impact Therapy dogs can have on patients, families and staff. The VPFunds representative was fortunate to speak directly with Therapy Teams and Children’s of Alabama staff about the importance of Animal-Assisted Therapy in a hospital environment.

VPFunds is focused on investing in non-profits with measurable impact in the community. After careful research, VPFunds gave a donation to name the Founder’s Office. This donation supports programs that have a profound impact on people’s lives, while encouraging “kindness, consideration, and common sense” (three qualities important to VPFunds).

Founder Beth Franklin is inspired by this philanthropic commitment to a new stage of growth for Hand in Paw. And the “Made Possible by VPFunds, kindness, consideration, and common sense” sign, outside of her office, will serve as a daily reminder of the faith shown by this support.

Franklin said: “When walking through our renovated and expanded facility and grounds, I am reminded of the generosity of donors who make it possible for Hand in Paw to serve those most in need of Animal-Assisted Therapy visits … donors like VPFunds.”