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Veteran and First Responder Dog Program | Circle of Change Dog Programs

Address Confidential, Rockford, IL 61110

Eligibility
Must be a Veteran or a First Responder Veterans are individuals who have served in the active military, naval, or air service, and who were discharged or released therefrom under conditions other than dishonorable First Responders are individuals who, as part of their job, are among the first to arrive at and deal with an emergency. This includes, but is not limited to, police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and emergency medical technicians
Required documents
In addition to the referral and application, individuals are required to sign an informed consent form and a Release of Information (ROI) form, which are provided by Circle of Change. Additionally, veterans and first responders must provide documentation to verify their status Veterans must provide a DD-214 form or other official documentation First Responders must provide an employee ID card or a letter from their employing agency
(815) 200-9020
Voice·

Main Phone

(815) 200-9021
Voice·

Alternative Phone

Application process
Call, email, visit website, a staff member will provide a program overview, gather basic information to determine preliminary eligibility, and explains the confidentiality policy, after the intake meeting, the staff member reviews all the information to determine the client's eligibility for a program. If eligible, they are assigned to the appropriate program. If not, they are given referrals to other community resources.
Fees
None
Service area
Winnebago County, IL

Other Information

Special Programs

  • Military Connected

​Provides a supportive, trauma-informed space where veterans and first responders can work with dogs on mutual healing and connection. The classes are flexible, stand-alone, and drop-in friendly. The program uses dog training and peer mentorship to help participants develop coping mechanisms and adapt to life's challenges, especially those stemming from service-related experiences. The sessions are structured to be a "no-judgment zone" where participants can feel safe. The program's objective is to cultivate resilience, enhance social-emotional health, and significantly reduce suicide risk for veterans and first responders.

Date of Last Formal Update
08/07/2025
Data provided by
United Way of the Midlands
Providing organization
Circle of Change Dog Programs

Provides free or low-cost dog training/handling classes for those who are at a high risk of self-harm or suicide.