Making a year-round impact

With a 36-year career with the Indiana State Police, long-time Indiana Canine Assistant Network (ICAN) supporter and Board Member, David Bursten, has always been committed to making a positive impact in his community.  

Now retired from the state police, he has continued his journey of service as the Director of Community Engagement with the Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC), where he has served for the past five years.  

Working with the police force and in correctional facilities, David had a unique firsthand perspective. He saw how ICAN’s mission impacts the incarcerated handlers. 

With ICAN, incarcerated handlers at three correctional facilities learn important skills they need to have a successful reentry into the community by training a service dog to help someone else.  

“ICAN gives the incarcerated men and women something of value to do. It gives them a sense of belonging, purpose, and pride,” he said. 

Dave at the Spring 2024 ICAN Graduation, where he served as emcee.

Recognizing David’s passion and dedication for his community, a colleague recommended he join the ICAN Board of Directors where he has now served for several years.  

Since then, David has shown his support in numerous ways. Most notably, he contributes to ICAN’s monthly giving campaign, Heart of the Mission. 

By pledging to make a monthly donation, David impacts his community year-round.

David explained that he follows the giving principle of “Time, treasure, and talent.” By contributing a portion of each, he ensures he makes a significant impact in supporting ICAN not only financially, but also through his personal time and unique skills. 

“ICAN connects with so many aspects of life that people value,” David explained. “It is a genuine, all-American organization with dedicated volunteers, excellent staff, and outstanding leadership.” 

Like David, you too can make a difference in the lives of Hoosiers. Learn more about Heart of the Mission here and make a monthly gift that will help individuals living with disabilities unleash abilities for years to come. 

(Please make sure to check, “Make this a monthly recurring donation,” before you submit your gift.)