Sweet Connections
ICAN Toffee with her former sponsor, Lori Sonner (middle), and her client, Emily Hunt (right)
When Emily Hunt got the call from the Indiana Canine Assistant Network (ICAN) in December 2020, she had already been waiting two years for a service dog.
However, she had no idea that her perfect match, a yellow Labrador named Toffee, came with a special story involving one of Indianapolis’ most beloved chocolate shops: DeBrand Fine Chocolates.
Toffee was trained to assist Emily with tasks related to her being in a wheelchair due to a spinal cord injury. She helps Emily live more independently.
“Toffee retrieves things for me, like my phone, providing a sense of security,” Emily said. “She’s the perfect match for me, bringing not only support but also a deep sense of purpose.”
But Toffee’s journey began long before she was paired with Emily.
Toffee as a puppy
In 2018, Lori and Bill Sonner, operating partners of DeBrand Fine Chocolates of Indianapolis, saw a newspaper article about an ICAN dog delivering chocolates and felt inspired to give back to their community. Before long, they found themselves sponsoring an ICAN puppy in training.
The puppy’s golden coat and gentle nature reminded them of their signature “Toffee Crush” Classic Collection piece, and they agreed that the name “Toffee” was the perfect fit.
“Toffee was always in our shop,” Lori shared. “The puppy raisers and furlough volunteers would bring her by. She was part of our team.” Bill added, “People would see the DeBrand patch on her vest and call us saying, ‘Your dog is at the YMCA!’ The awareness it brought to ICAN and to our business was incredible.”
When Toffee graduated from training and was paired with Emily, Lori and Bill were invited to attend the graduation ceremony. As Bill explained, “It was so meaningful to see the outcome of what we had been part of.”
Lori and Bill Sonner, operating partners of DeBrand Fine Chocolates of Indianapolis
Lori and Bill have continued their partnership with ICAN by participating in various events, including the organization’s annual Valentine’s Day fundraiser, Puppy Love Valentines. During this event, ICAN service dogs in training deliver treats and gifts to Hoosiers across Indianapolis.
Since 2018, Lori and Bill have made each Puppy Love delivery even sweeter by including their signature Debrand Toffee, adding a personal and delicious touch to every box.
For the Sonners, Toffee is more than just a sweet treat—she’s a symbol of the power of giving back and the impact of kindness. But for Emily, Toffee is a life changer, bringing independence, confidence, and hope.
Through their sponsorship of Toffee, the Sonners have not only strengthened their bond with the community but have also created a lasting impact that goes far beyond their business, proving that generosity can transform lives in ways they never imagined.
Toffee at the DeBrand Indianapolis store
Want to try a piece of Toffee Crush? Stop by the DeBrand Indianapolis location at 8685 River Crossing Blvd and mention this story! You'll receive a complimentary piece of crushed, buttery toffee blended with caramelized milk chocolate. (One piece per person; offer valid through August 7, 2025).
If you’d like to learn how you can sponsor a dog like Bill and Lori, email ICAN Philanthropy Director Samantha Wodecki at swodecki@icandog.org.