James R. Schenck, President and CEO of PenFed Credit Union and CEO of the PenFed Foundation, believes that tying work to real-world impacts is crucial for creating a standout company culture. To further this ethos of service, his company encourages employees to raise service dogs in the workplace. This initiative not only benefits employees but also plays a key role in supporting veterans in need of service dogs, addressing the shortage of volunteers to raise these puppies before their training begins.
The shortage of volunteers to raise service dogs has resulted in extended wait times for veterans in need of these life-changing companions. By partnering with volunteer puppy raisers, organizations are able to address this shortage and provide the necessary assistance to veterans. Business leaders who allow future service dogs to be raised in the workplace empower their employees to serve a greater cause and contribute to a profound impact on countless lives.
Raising service dogs in the workplace not only supports a meaningful cause but also strengthens the office’s culture and mission by giving employees a common goal to rally behind. Employees engage in various ways, whether by volunteering themselves, supporting co-workers who are raising puppies, or simply voting on the best name for a puppy. These dogs enhance the environment, fostering teamwork and reinforcing the company’s value of service.
The presence of future service dogs in the workplace can also have a positive impact on employee well-being and performance, ultimately benefiting a company’s bottom line. Research shows that dogs in the workplace can lead to longer lives, healthier lifestyles, lower cortisol levels, and stronger mental health for employees. Allowing future service dogs in the office provides employees with access to these benefits, which can improve overall health and productivity, saving companies money through fewer sick days and higher-quality work.
Future service dogs serve as a reminder of the company’s mission and provide a sense of joy and positivity across the office. These dogs not only offer a soothing presence and reduce cortisol levels in high-pressure environments but also establish a visible connection between the company’s culture and its commitment to service. Supporting employees who raise future service dogs in the office may not require significant costs, but the impact on veterans and other recipients is invaluable.
For business leaders seeking creative solutions to have a positive impact and create a healthier work environment, advocating for employees to raise future service dogs at work could be a beneficial initiative. The presence of service dogs like Pilot serves as a constant reminder of the importance of using one’s days to improve lives through service. By welcoming future service dogs into the office, companies can foster a culture of giving back and making a meaningful difference in the lives of veterans and individuals in need.
