Every Role
Matters Here.
Resilient Tails is built on the belief that recovery is a community act. Whether you're in recovery yourself, you run a shelter, you train dogs, or you write checks — there is a meaningful role for you in this work.
Are You in Recovery?
If you are in recovery from substance use disorder and looking for a way to add structure, purpose, and connection to your recovery journey — Resilient Tails may be for you.
You do not need dog training experience. You do not need to have your life figured out. You need to be willing to show up — for yourself, and for a dog who needs you.
Transportation is provided. Peer support is built in. The program is free to participants.
Eligibility
- →Currently in recovery from substance use disorder
- →Stable enough to attend regular scheduled sessions
- →Willing to work with shelter dogs under supervision
- →Engaged with at least one other form of recovery support (meetings, treatment, therapy, etc.)
- →Able to provide transportation consent and emergency contact
- →Committed to the full 90-day program cycle
Partner with Resilient Tails
We are actively seeking shelter partners, treatment providers, recovery housing operators, and workforce programs for the 90-day pilot.
Animal Shelters
Provide shelter dogs for structured enrichment sessions. Dogs receive training, socialization, and daily exercise — increasing adoption readiness.
Treatment Providers
Refer clients in stable recovery who may benefit from structured peer support and service-based enrichment.
Recovery Housing
Connect residents with transportation-supported program access. Resilient Tails adds structure and purpose to recovery housing life.
Workforce Programs
Co-deliver workforce readiness workshops. Participants build professional skills alongside recovery skills.
Funders & Grantors
Support the 90-day pilot with direct funding. Every dollar goes to transportation, personnel, training supplies, and program operations.
Community Organizations
Amplify outreach, host community walks, and connect participants with broader recovery community resources.
Volunteer Your Skills
Resilient Tails runs on the energy of people who believe in second chances — for people and for dogs.
Dog Enrichment Volunteer
2–4 hrs/weekSkills: Dog handling experience preferred, positive attitude required
- →Walk shelter dogs alongside participants
- →Demonstrate leash manners and basic commands
- →Provide encouragement and safety oversight
Peer Recovery Mentor
3–5 hrs/weekSkills: Lived recovery experience, CPS certification preferred
- →Facilitate peer support check-ins
- →Share personal recovery experience
- →Support participants in goal-setting
Workforce Readiness Coach
2 hrs/weekSkills: HR, career coaching, or workforce development background
- →Lead resume and interview workshops
- →Provide professional skills coaching
- →Connect participants with employment resources
Transportation Volunteer
FlexibleSkills: Valid driver's license, reliable vehicle, background check
- →Provide rides to program sessions
- →Ensure consistent participant access
- →Reduce transportation barrier
Fund the Work
The 90-day pilot requires $24,850 in direct funding. Every dollar goes to transportation, personnel, training supplies, and program operations — not overhead.
Sponsor a Recovery Pair
For $4,970, you can sponsor one person in recovery and one shelter dog through the full 90-day program. Your sponsorship covers transportation, peer support, training supplies, and program coordination for that pair.
You will receive a program update at 30, 60, and 90 days — including participant progress (anonymized) and dog enrichment outcomes.
SAMHSA Grants
Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant, Recovery Community Services Program
Missouri DHSS
Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services behavioral health funding streams
Foundation Grants
Animal welfare foundations, recovery-focused philanthropies, community foundations
Corporate Sponsors
Local businesses, veterinary practices, pet supply companies, recovery-aligned employers
Individual Donors
Recovery community members, animal lovers, community advocates
In-Kind Support
Transportation, dog supplies, facility space, professional services
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Reach out to discuss how you can be part of the Resilient Tails pilot.
Contact Us →