The Story Behind The Breakthroughs.
Raising Hope Dogs began with one extraordinary dog and a simple but powerful idea: what if a dog could help a child break through barriers that therapy alone couldn’t?
What started with a few courageous families and clinicians quickly revealed something remarkable—when thoughtfully trained and placed with intention, these dogs don’t just support therapy… they transform how children experience it.
Unlike traditional service dog organizations, Raising Hope Dogs trains highly skilled canine therapists who work alongside clinicians and within the home—becoming part of both structured therapy and everyday life.
In sessions, they help children engage, regulate, and communicate. At home, they turn simple routines—like feeding, practicing commands, or companionship—into meaningful opportunities for growth.
We collaborate closely with each child’s therapist to ensure every placement is thoughtful, supportive, and fully integrated into their care—because the biggest breakthroughs don’t just happen in therapy… they happen in everyday moments.
Leadership
Wendi L. Faircloth
Founder & Training Director | Board Director
Wendi Faircloth holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from Niagara University and brings more than 17 years of professional experience training both service dogs and companion animals. She previously managed a dog training and daycare facility for six years and now dedicates approximately 60 hours each week to the mission of Raising Hope Dogs. Her work includes training and caring for program puppies and working therapy dogs, maintaining facilities, supporting therapy sessions, participating in the HopeDog Challenge, and leading community outreach, public awareness, and fundraising efforts.
Beverly B. Damore
Board Chair & Executive Director
Beverly Damore holds a Master of Arts in Mass Communication from the Arizona State University Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Loyola Marymount University. With more than 25 years of nonprofit leadership experience, she has served in executive and communications roles for several respected organizations, including the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation and St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance. Her expertise in communications, fundraising, and organizational leadership helps guide the strategic growth and impact of Raising Hope Dogs.
Apryl Lea
Board Director
Apryl Lea is a professional dog trainer with extensive experience in service dog training and canine performance programs. Her background includes work with organizations such as Paws for a Cause, Assistance Dogs International, and Animal Farm Foundation. In addition to her training work, Apryl is active in the canine sport community, serving as an UpDog judge and as an international judging director for the United States Disc Dog National (USDDN).
William Hicks III
Corporate Counsel
William Hicks III serves as Corporate Counsel for Raising Hope Dogs and is an attorney with the law firm Ballard Spahr in Phoenix, Arizona. He provides legal guidance and support to help ensure the organization operates with strong governance and compliance as it advances its mission.
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Volunteers
Raising Hope Dogs is fueled by a passionate community of volunteers, donors, and clinicians who believe every child deserves the chance to grow with confidence and courage.