October 28, 2024
October 28, 2024

Celebrate a decade of Team Foster with exclusive Team Foster 10-Year Anniversary Merch!

Who is ready for the Dog Days of Winter Challenge?! Registration opens on Monday, October 28th, and the challenge begins Monday, November 11th.

It's the most wonderful time of the year, and this holiday season is extra special as we mark a decade of making a difference in the Veteran community by helping to provide service dogs to injured and disabled Veterans.


In addition to the hoodie and beanie, we are adding a Team Foster tumbler and windbreaker jacket! We have a limited amount of tumblers and the windbreaker jackets are pre order only. Holiday merch will be available on Monday, November 4. Save this link to shop!

Participants in this challenge commit to covering a certain distance between November 11th and January 31st—whether walking, running, swimming, or biking—during the winter months while fundraising for Team Foster.


The challenge promotes physical activity and fosters a sense of community engagement and support for the Veteran Community.

Visit TeamFoster.org to register today!

Major is moving right along in his training! This month Major will move on to advanced training. You can follow his journey at @MajorLeagueService Commands Major is currently mastering are:


  • Jump - On/off escalators and stairs
  • Touch - To open handicap doors
  • Stand - Assist someone who has fallen
  • Retrieve - Get and deliver items to handler
  • Stress Cues - Alerts increasing anxiety

Major will have 2 years of training before being placed with a wounded Veteran through Warrior Canine Connection, with the support of Team Foster.


You can learn more about becoming a puppy raiser by clicking here or visiting TeamFoster.org/Veteran-Services.

Philadelphia’s very own Kyle Schwarber hosted the annual Schwarber’s Neighborhood Heroes Block Party, and Team Foster was honored to be one of the event's beneficiaries. Held at Yards Brewing, the block party was a lively celebration dedicated to first responders, Veterans, and their families. They came together for a night of fun, community connection, and gratitude for their service.


As if the block party wasn’t enough, Schwarber also hosted Schwarber Field Day at the Phillies' Citizens Bank Park. This exclusive experience allowed first responders, Veterans, and their families to take part in a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the stadium like never before. Attendees got to run the bases, tour the ballpark, and even step up to the plate in the Phillies batting cages!

November is shaping up to be an exciting month as Team Foster heads out to meet with an amazing lineup of companies across Greater Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. With the goal of raising awareness, securing support, and fostering community connections, we’re proud to share our mission with leaders and employees who are passionate about supporting veterans. Thank you to everyone joining us this November. We can’t wait to see the impact we’ll make together!

Here’s a look at what’s coming up!

Wednesday, November 6

Wednesday, November 6

Monday, November 11

Monday, November 11

Tuesday, November 12

Tuesday, November 12

Wednesday, November 13

Wednesday, November 13

Thursday, November 14

Thursday, November 21

SEI Veteran Owned Business Fair

GSK Veteran Gathering

Pittsburgh Veterans Day Breakfast Celebration

Flyer's Military Appreciation Night

Ally Veteran Breakfast

PECO Community Partner Summit

Pfizer Veteran Gathering

PENN Veterans Celebration

PWC Veterans Gathering

Green XT Veterans Gathering

Team Foster’s mission is only possible because of our partners, supporters, and community dedication. This November tour is about building on that momentum and reaching more passionate people about making a difference for veterans. We’re incredibly excited to connect with these companies, share our stories, and continue making strides to support veterans through service dogs.

This event season, Team Foster’s community rallied together in incredible ways to support Veterans and their service dogs. Kicking off with Ruff Ride Philadelphia, our annual 24-hour spin relay brought a record number of riders and spectators, proving that Philly’s heart for our Veterans is as big as ever. Then, Ruff Ride Pittsburgh kept the energy high, with participants pedaling through the night and day to show their commitment to our mission.


We also had an inspiring Foster 100 Classic—a 100-mile bike ride from Veterans Island to Cape May that unites riders from all over the region. Together, our community raised funds to help Team Foster continue its work providing life-saving service dogs to injured and disabled Veterans.


Thanks to everyone who joined, cheered, and donated. Your dedication is helping change lives, one Veteran and one service dog at a time. Even thought our larger events have come to a close, there is still time to get in on the fun! We hope to see you participate in the Dog Days of Winter or join us while celebrating Team Foster’s 10 Year Anniversary!

Team Foster’s mission to connect Veterans with life-saving service dogs is only possible because of our community. We are always actively planning our next event, community activity, and networking for legislative policy. We’d love for you to get more involved! Whether you want to volunteer, participate in an event, become a sponsor, or spread the word, there’s a place for you with Team Foster. Together, we’re making a difference for our Veterans—one paw, one mile, and one event at a time. Join us on the mission, visit visit TeamFoster.org/Contact and see how else you can get involved!

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By Jess Hagen October 9, 2025
Team Foster is hitting the Big Apple! We’re thrilled to announce the launch of Ruff Ride NYC registration is now OPEN! The 24-hour cycling event benefits Veterans with disabilities and the service dogs who help them reclaim their independence. Date: March 28-29, 2026 Time: 10:00am – 10:00 am Location: Nike Track & Field Center at The Armory This exciting expansion brings Team Foster’s signature mission and energy to Manhattan, hosted in partnership with America’s VetDogs at the iconic Nike Track & Field Center at The Armory. Together, we’re joining forces to raise awareness, build community, and make a tangible difference for the Veterans and service dogs who inspire everything we do. For the past decade, Ruff Ride events in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh have rallied thousands of riders and supporters, raising critical funds to pair service dogs with Veterans in need. Now, it’s New York’s turn to ride, sweat, and stand for those who’ve served. Ruff Ride NYC will bring together teams, sponsors, and supporters from across the region for an unforgettable day of cycling, camaraderie, and purpose—all to advance Team Foster’s mission. Visit RuffRide.org/NewYorkCity for registration details, partnership opportunities, and ways to get involved. We can’t wait to bring the Team Foster spirit to New York City this spring! #SHOWUP4VETS
October 9, 2025
What a ride, Pittsburgh! This year’s Ruff Ride Pittsburgh was one for the books. The PGH crew created an incredible day of energy, community, and purpose. Together, riders, sponsors, and supporters raised over $62,000 to help Team Foster continue its mission of pairing service dogs with Veterans with disabilities and ensuring no hero is left behind. From start to finish, the atmosphere inside the UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse was electric. Cyclists gave it their all through every round, cheered on by teammates, instructors, and a community that shows up year after year to make a difference. The strength, spirit, and determination of our riders embody exactly what Team Foster stands for. This year’s event wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support of our cycling partners at CycleBar Robinson, instructors, volunteers, and sponsors like PNC and Michael Baker International. Your dedication fuels our mission and directly impacts the lives of Veterans and the dogs who stand by their side. As we look ahead to 2026, we’re more motivated than ever to keep growing with Duquesne University to keep making an impact. Thank you, Pittsburgh, for showing up, sweating it out, and proving once again that together, we can change lives. Check out
September 3, 2025
Before the game against the Seattle Mariners on Tuesday, Phillies designated hitter Kyle Schwarber made a lunchtime stop at local 15th Police District Precinct in Northeast Philadelphia to thank the local heroes for their work in the community. Schwarber provided lunch for all in attendance, took pictures and signed autographs, all as part of his mission to express gratitude to first responders and military personnel through Schwarber’s Neighborhood Heroes. Later that day, during batting practice at Citizens Bank Park, Schwarber met with members from Team Foster, a nonprofit that supports injured and disabled veterans through accredited, life-saving service dogs. Read the full article at MLB.com .
September 3, 2025
Team Foster is thrilled to announce that we have been awarded a generous $30,000 grant from the Schwarber Family Foundation through its Schwarber’s Neighborhood Heroes initiative. This funding will directly support our mission to ensure no hero is left behind. The grant includes: $25,000 to fully fund our Community Resource Representative position—an essential role that connects veterans with life-saving service dogs, wellness resources, and the Paws and Patriots Community. $5,000 dedicated to our service dog training program, helping us continue to provide highly trained, accredited service dogs to injured and disabled veterans. This investment allows us to continue to expand our reach and better address the complex needs of the Veteran community. With more robust staffing, we can ensure timely, personalized support for those navigating the challenges of civilian life. We are deeply grateful to Kyle Schwarber, Paige, Connie, and the entire Schwarber Family Foundation team for believing in our mission. Their support strengthens our ability to serve those who’ve served us. Stay tuned for updates on how this grant is making a difference and if you have a story to share about how Team Foster has impacted your life, we’d love to hear from you. Together, we’re building a stronger, more connected community for our veterans.
September 3, 2025
Team Foster Joins Schwarber’s Neighborhood Heroes for some family fun!
By Jess Hagen June 30, 2025
Meet WCC Tugger: A Service Dog in Training Backed by Phillies charities
By Jess Hagen June 30, 2025
Meet Stanley: A Service Dog in Training with a Mission to score a big goal!
By Jess Hagen June 30, 2025
Team Foster is thrilled to share that the 2025 McMasters Open marked not only another unforgettable day on the course—but a powerful new chapter in its legacy. This year’s event was the first official Team Foster golf outing, following the exciting merger of the McMasters Foundation with Team Foster. For the second year in a row, held at Bella Vista Golf Course, the McMasters Open brought together long-time supporters, new faces, and an incredible community committed to honoring our nation's Veterans and supporting service dogs for injured Veterans. With nice weather, competitive play, and a shared sense of purpose, it was a day to remember. You know what's even more inspiring? We raised over $74,000. That funding will directly support Te am Foster’s mission to provide highly trained service dogs to Veterans in need, at no cost to the Veteran. These funds will help change lives and give hope, freedom, and renewed independence to those who’ve sacrificed so much for our country.
By Jess Hagen June 5, 2025
Philadelphia, PA – The room was packed, the energy was electric, and the mission was crystal clear: to raise critical funds that would help pair highly trained service dogs with injured and disabled Veterans. Ruff Ride Philadelphia delivered on that mission in a big way—raising over $250,000 in a single night of impact, inspiration, and unity. This wasn’t just a fundraiser. It was a movement powered by community, storytelling, and the deep belief that Veterans deserve every tool they need to live full, empowered lives—including a loyal, life-saving companion on four legs. Big Names. Bigger Hearts. NBC Sports Philadelphia's Taryn Hatcher joined a distinguished lineup—including Jared Solomon, Jillian Mele, and Veterans themselves—to underscore the event's profound impact on the local community and its support for Veterans. Hatcher brought her platform to amplify the voices of those affected by military service. Her participation highlighted the importance of community involvement in supporting Veterans beyond mere acknowledgment. The event featured various activities, including the Midnight Glow Ride and the Bad Mofo Challenge, which not only tested participants' endurance but also symbolized the resilience and dedication of the Veteran community Through such initiatives, Ruff Ride Philadelphia serves as a testament to the collective effort of individuals and organizations in making a tangible difference in the lives of Veterans. The stage was also shared by other powerful voices who brought their hearts, humor, and personal missions: Dave Oglton , an advocate and storyteller who never fails to inspire @FitDadCEO Matt Groark (aka Groark Boys’ BBQ), who blended passion and purpose like only he can. @GroarkBoysBBQ Kyle Pagan , local media personality and fierce supporter of Veterans' causes. @Kylepagancb Their presence wasn’t about celebrity—it was about commitment. Each used their platform to amplify the cause and honor the Veterans whose lives are forever changed through the power of service dogs. Veterans Share the Truth Behind the Need But perhaps the most powerful moments came from the Veterans themselves—men and women who laid it all out, bravely sharing their personal journeys. They spoke about why they finally made the decision to get a service dog. For many, it was a matter of survival. These were stories of struggle, resilience, and ultimately, hope. Several shared that these dogs didn’t just improve their lives—they saved them . From easing symptoms of PTSD to helping with mobility and bringing families back together, the impact was raw and undeniable. Their words reminded everyone in the room that this mission is about more than money—it’s about life, dignity, and healing . Moving Forward with Purpose Ruff Ride Philadelphia proved that when community, compassion, and action come together, incredible things happen. The funds raised will directly support training and placing service dogs with Veterans who need them most. To those who attended, sponsored, donated, and spoke—thank you. You’ve made a difference that can’t be measured in dollars alone. To view photos from the event or learn more about how you can help, visit: RuffRide.org/Philadelphia #ShowUp4Vets #RuffRidePHL #TeamFoster #SpinCudleRepeat
By Jess Hagen June 5, 2025
On June 11 , the heart of Philadelphia will beat a little louder with gratitude and celebration as Phillies’ slugger Kyle Schwarber and his wife, Paige, host the sold-out Schwarber’s Block Party at Yards Brewing Co. This annual event, part of the Schwarber’s Neighborhood Heroes initiative, is more than just a party—it’s a powerful tribute to the first responders, military personnel, and their families who serve our communities every day. Among the honored beneficiaries this year is Team Foster, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting injured and disabled veterans by funding highly trained service dogs and other critical resources. Founded by Nick Liermann, Team Foster has become a vital force in the veteran support community, and their presence at the Block Party underscores the event’s mission of honoring those who give so much. We are excited to share that Nick will join Kyle and Paige Schwarber, along with other nonprofit leaders, during the event. This moment offers a unique opportunity to spotlight the incredible work Team Foster is doing—not just in Philadelphia but across the region. The Block Party promises an unforgettable evening with appearances by Schwarber’s teammates, MLB Network’s Ryan Dempster, and his live show Off the Mound, live music, great food, and a silent auction packed with once-in-a-lifetime experiences and memorabilia. Proceeds from the event and auction will benefit organizations like Team Foster, ensuring that the support for our heroes continues long after the last song plays. Since its inception, Schwarber’s Neighborhood Heroes has raised over $580,000, with Team Foster being one of the many organizations that have benefited from this generosity. This year’s event is poised to build on that legacy, bringing together fans, athletes, and community leaders in a shared mission of gratitude and giving. To learn more visit schwarbersneighborhoodheroes.org .