Flyers Alumni, Team Foster, and America's Vetdogs to Provide a Future Service Dog — And Fans Get to Name the Pup!
Flyers Alumni, Team Foster, and America's Vetdogs to Provide a Future Service Dog — And Fans Get to Name the Pup!
Help name the next flyers alumni service dog
Smithtown, NY & Philadelphia, PA, April 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --
America’s VetDogs, a national nonprofit that provides specially trained service dogs to veterans and first responders with disabilities, is proud to join forces with the Philadelphia Flyers Alumni Association, a nonprofit organization dedicated to giving back to the community and Team Foster, an organization dedicated to honoring veterans and military families by partnering them with service dogs. Funded by Flyers Alumni, together the three organizations are thrilled to announce the co-raising of a future service dog for a veteran or first responder with disabilities.
The puppy is a seven-week-old male Labrador Retriever. Over the next 14 to 18 months, this adorable pup will begin his journey of basic training and socialization alongside Flyers Alumni and Team Foster fans, staff, and supporters. He’ll be a familiar face at community events, where he’ll gain exposure to a variety of environments that are essential to shaping him into a confident and calm future service dog. After completing his basic training, the puppy will return to America’s VetDogs headquarters in Smithtown, NY to begin his formal training. There, he’ll prepare for his ultimate mission of being placed with a veteran or first responder with disabilities.
The public will have a chance to help name the new pup by choosing from an option of names selected by Flyers Alumni via a poll on the official
Philadelphia Flyers’ website.
Voting will run from Tuesday, April 22 – Friday, April 25 at 11:59 PM EST. Flyers Alumni will announce the official name of the puppy via social media in May.
Fans can follow the pup’s journey via the Flyers Alumni social media accounts on
Facebook
and, X, to stay up to date on his training and local appearances. For more on America’s VetDogs and ways to get involved, visit VetDogs.org.
“Flyers Alumni is thrilled to partner with America’s VetDogs and Team Foster for this exciting initiative. This is more than just naming a dog — it’s being part of a journey that will transform someone’s life,” said Brad Marsh, President of Flyers Alumni. “It is because of our fans and their support of our charitable giving that we are able to make this mission possible and we want to give them the opportunity to name the newest member of the Flyers Alumni family.”
“We’re incredibly grateful to partner with Flyers Alumni and America’s VetDogs on this life-changing initiative,” said Nick Liermann, Founder and Executive Director of Team Foster. “This isn’t a pet or emotional support animal; this pup is going to train for two years to become a service dog and help a veteran or first responder with disabilities. Involving the fans in naming this dog is a fun and meaningful way to showcase what these partnerships are all about: community, support, and changing lives together.”
“We are proud to partner with the Flyers Alumni and Team Foster on this extraordinary journey as a part of our ‘Puppy with a Purpose program.’” said John Miller, president and CEO of America’s VetDogs. “This partnership reflects our shared values of service, community, and unwavering support for those who have bravely served our country. We look forward to watching this puppy grow and develop into a life-changing service dog for a veteran or first responder.”
About America’s VetDogs
For more than 20 years, America’s VetDogs (www.VetDogs.org) has trained and placed guide and service dogs to provide independence, enhanced mobility, and companionship to veterans with disabilities from all eras. In 2015, VetDogs opened its programs to first responders, including fire, police, and emergency medical personnel. America’s VetDogs is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization founded by the Guide Dog Foundation and serves clients from across the United States. VetDogs relies on contributions from generous individuals, corporations, service clubs, and foundations to fund its mission to help those who have served our country live with dignity and independence. It costs over $50,000 to breed, raise, train, and place one assistance dog, but America’s VetDogs provides its services completely free of charge to the individual. America’s VetDogs has been accredited by both the International Guide Dog Federation and Assistance Dogs International.
About Flyers Alumni Association
The Flyers Alumni Association is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Since its founding, the Association has grown both nationally and internationally, with its membership composed of former Philadelphia Flyers players. True to its roots, the Flyers Alumni Association remains deeply committed to giving back to the Delaware Valley community. Flyers Alumni members continue to engage with fans and communities around the globe, regularly participating in charity games and various philanthropic initiatives throughout the year including the upcoming inaugural Flyers Alumni Charity Classic Weekend.
About Team Foster
Team Foster is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2014 in honor of U.S. Army Captain Erick Foster after he was killed in action in 2007. Headquartered in Philadelphia, Team Foster’s mission is to support accredited, life-saving service dogs for injured and disabled Veterans. Through funding, education, advocacy and community building, Team Foster positively impacts thousands of Veterans every year. Learn how you can #ShowUp4Vets at
TeamFoster.org.
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
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
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 .
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.
Team Foster Joins Schwarber’s Neighborhood Heroes for some family fun!
Meet WCC Tugger: A Service Dog in Training Backed by Phillies charities
Meet Stanley: A Service Dog in Training with a Mission to score a big goal!
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.
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
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 .