Teen Raises Nearly $87,000 to Train Service Dogs for Veterans

Churubusco Teen Raises Nearly $87,000 for Service Dogs for Veterans

When Kendall Stuckey first saw Lady, a Labrador retriever who could do burpees alongside her CrossFit classmates, she was immediately intrigued. Little did she know that this chance encounter would lead her to a passion project that would raise nearly $87,000 for service dogs for veterans.

Stuckey, now 18, was inspired to get involved in her community and found her calling with the Indiana Canine Assistant Network (ICAN) and its Veteran Service Division. Determined to raise enough money to train one service dog before graduating from Churubusco High School, Stuckey far exceeded her goal and raised funds for almost seven dogs.

Her dedication to the cause continues with the fourth annual Dogs for Vets golf scramble, where all proceeds go to ICAN. Despite not having any experience with golf, Stuckey embraced the idea after a golf pro suggested it as a popular fundraising event. She has also organized bake sales and crafted handmade dog toys to support the cause.

As Stuckey prepares to attend Indiana University Indianapolis this fall, where she plans to major in graphic arts and minor in business, she remains committed to volunteering at ICAN’s headquarters in Noblesville. Giving back runs in the Stuckey family, with her father being an Indiana State Police detective, her mother a nurse, and her older brother involved in a nonprofit that provides books to hospitalized children.

While her pet dog Griffin may not be as skilled as the service dogs she’s fundraising for, Stuckey’s dedication to helping veterans and their furry companions is unwavering. Her impact on the community and her commitment to service are truly inspiring.