Volunteer of the Year: Jon Cavanaugh
Freedom Service Dogs (FSD) foster volunteer Jon Cavanaugh is described by FSD staff as “the kindest man and a role model through and through,” exemplifying the dedication and heart of all our volunteers.
For Jon, being an FSD foster is much more than volunteering—it’s a profound joy. Since joining the FSD community, Jon has impressively fostered more than 80 service dog hopefuls, proving that heartfelt commitment and dedication can truly make a lasting difference.
For his unwavering belief in our mission, his love of dogs, willingness to always lend a helping hand, and his infectious kindness, we are thrilled to announce that Jon Cavanaugh was chosen to receive the 2023 Werner Kaplan Volunteer of the Year Award!
Unable to have a pet of his own and missing the companionship of a dog, Jon turned to FSD to get his dog fix while helping others in need. He quickly found his place in the foster program and has fostered almost every weekend since. “I was really excited about the foster program because I work during the week and thought the opportunity on the weekends was perfect. It’s been a great way to learn about dogs and interact with them. People might think it’s difficult, but it’s really not,” says Jon.
Jon welcomes every dog, no matter their personality or situation, with a positive, open-minded attitude. “My first dog was probably the hardest,” Jon remembered with a laugh, “Years later, dog number 80 has been the easiest. I like to see all the different dogs, and my gift is making the new dogs feel comfortable quickly.” Never afraid to ask questions and advocate for himself or the dog he’s fostering, Jon prioritizes their wellbeing in every way possible. A guy who genuinely cares about every dog he’s fostered, Jon keeps up with their progress and is dedicated to helping each pup have a successful future—regardless of their career path.
While his all-time favorite fosters have been FSD Service Dog graduates Reef and Zena, along with his current foster dog in training, Sundae, Jon has formed close friendships with every dog he’s fostered, whether he’s known them for a few months or just a single weekend. Says Jon, “The bond I form with them lasts forever, and you can’t break that. Eventually, if they graduate and I never see them again, that’s alright because I know nothing can ever get rid of our bond. One of the coolest things is watching them go from my friends to them turning into service dogs.”
“The bond I form with them lasts forever… if they graduate and I never see them again, that’s alright because I know nothing can ever get rid of our bond. One of the coolest things is watching them go from my friends to them turning into service dogs.” – Jon Cavanaugh
Not only does Jon enjoy the time he spends with the dogs, but he also takes it as an opportunity to learn from one another. “There are so many reasons I love fostering! It’s fun and there are dogs, but you also get to help someone out while learning about yourself since there’s so much leadership involved in it. You can learn a lot from the animal kingdom, especially dogs,” Jon shared.
Upon being awarded the Werner Kaplan Volunteer of the Year Award, Jon was overwhelmed with joy and gratitude. When asked how he felt about the recognition, Jon responded in his typical polite, happy nature, saying,
“It’s unbelievable! I love it! It’s one of the best things I’ve ever won—if not the best!”
Congratulations, Jon, and thank you from the puppies, dogs, and people of FSD!
The 2024 Volunteer of the Year nominees were Jon Cavanaugh, Caryn Boude, and Brian Johnson.
Congratulations to all these deserving nominees and thank you for your hard work and dedication!
We need YOU to volunteer! Learn more about becoming a volunteer foster and all of our volunteer opportunities at Freedom Service Dogs here.
Contact Erin Conley at econley@