Providing Second chances and purpose
We are proud to offer life skills to incarcerated individuals through our program.
ICAN helps incarcerated men and women move beyond their mistakes, gain hope, and learn the skills they need to successfully return to the community — all by training service dogs that help someone else.
At any given time, we have between 40 and 60 incarcerated trainers working at three Indiana-based correctional facilities dedicated to developing over 30+ service dogs in-training.
These dedicated men and women are crucial in training our service dogs to ensure they reach their full potential and become reliable assistant dogs for future clients.
Their commitment and support are invaluable to our organization. Without them, our training model would be significantly different. We are grateful to these individuals who choose to enhance their lives by dedicating their time to our organization and mission.
In a recent survey, our handlers shared how ICAN has impacted their lives:
said, “ICAN has invoked positive change in my life.”
said, “ICAN has made me feel excited for my future.”
said, “ICAN has given me a sense of purpose.”
These testimonies speak volumes.
In addition to serving as our lead canine trainers, handlers also get to participate in “Team Training,” when their dog is nearing graduation.
“Team Training,” which occurs a few times a year at one of our partnering prison systems, gives these handlers the opportunity to meet the client of the graduated dog in person and teach them how to form a partnership and work with their new service dog.
meet our amazing incarcerated trainers
The beautiful mosaic that is ICAN brings together individuals from all walks of life, allowing everyone our mission touches to embrace differences through similarities and treat one another with respect and dignity.