Spreading Puppy Love: How ICAN's Visits Are Transforming Workplaces and Hearts
ICAN Ambassador Dog Kelly with NBOI employees
At The National Bank of Indianapolis (NBOI), Jill Robisch serves as Vice President and Manager of the nonprofit division with a deep sense of purpose and passion. For Jill, her role is not just a title but a commitment to building meaningful relationships that uplift the community.
One of the most valued partnerships she has fostered is with the Indiana Canine Assistant Network (ICAN), a nonprofit that connects service dogs with Indiana adults, children, and Veterans living with disabilities.
“I’ve always been inspired by the incredible work nonprofits do,” Jill shares. “A core part of my role is building partnerships, like the one we have with ICAN, that align with the bank’s mission of service and community impact.”
Beyond her efforts to support nonprofits, Jill spearheads employee engagement initiatives at NBOI, continually seeking innovative and meaningful ways to express gratitude to staff. This commitment led her to discover ICAN’s “Puppy Love Year-Round” program, which she now integrates as a standout element of the bank’s annual Employee Appreciation Day every April.
Puppy Love Year-Round, inspired by ICAN’s annual Valentine’s Day fundraiser, is a unique initiative where ICAN service dogs-in-training visit recipients at their home, workplace, or event venue, and deliver packages filled with goodies from local Indiana businesses.
During these visits, the dogs showcase their developing skills, performing cues or even surprising recipients with gestures like offering paw print “autographs.” It’s a heartwarming experience that blends celebration with purpose.
Designed to make any occasion unforgettable—whether it’s a corporate celebration, team-building event, client appreciation gathering, or milestone moment—these visits also serve to support ICAN’s impactful mission.
When Jill learned about Puppy Love Year-Round, she knew it would be a perfect fit for NBOI. “It started as a simple idea in 2022—to create something meaningful and memorable for our employees,” Jill explains. “We wanted an experience that not only expressed our gratitude but also supported their well-being in an authentic way.”
ICAN Cayman greets NBOI employees
NBOI’s first Puppy Love visit was an instant success. “The joy and excitement in the room were contagious,” Jill recalls. “We knew right away it had to become a tradition. It wasn’t just an event—it was transformative.”
Over the past four years, NBOI has delivered more than 1,300 boxes to NBOI employees across nearly 15 locations in Marion and surrounding counties. Jill believes these visits are especially meaningful because they provide employees with a chance to relax, de-stress, and enjoy the soothing presence of a dog.
“These visits not only support ICAN’s outstanding mission of training service dogs, but they also bring genuine moments of happiness to our employees,” Jill says.
For Jill, prioritizing employee well-being is essential. “Sometimes, the smallest gestures have the biggest impact. Just a few minutes with a loving, well-trained dog can ease stress, lift spirits, and foster a positive workplace culture. It’s something truly special.”
ICAN Cayman greets NBOI employees
As NBOI’s collaboration with ICAN continues to grow, Jill reflects on the partnership with gratitude.
“We are incredibly thankful for the joy ICAN brings to our team and for the transformative work they do in our community. Supporting their mission has been an absolute privilege, and we look forward to many more opportunities to work together.”
To bring Puppy Love Year-Round to your employees or an upcoming event, reach out to ICAN Development & Community Outreach Manager Lori Steininger at Loris@icandog.org.