(August 25, 2026 – Clearwater, FL) Koozie Group helped support the Turner family’s journey to receiving a service dog through its 2026 donation to 4 Paws for Ability, a nonprofit that places service dogs with children and veterans.
After years of managing complex medical needs, an autism diagnosis, and the constant fear that their son, Wyatt, might wander away, Stephanie and Ken Turner were looking for a way to help their family feel safer beyond the walls of their home. Their journey to a service dog began with an application to 4 Paws for Ability and continued through three years of waiting, fundraising, and hope.
That journey reached a milestone on July 17, when the Turners completed their ten-day training class and officially welcomed Affogato, affectionately known as “Affi,” into their family.
“For the first time in years, I realized I didn’t have to be afraid anymore,” said Stephanie Turner. “With Affi by Wyatt’s side, we can leave the house, be out in the world, and just live our lives. We are so grateful to 4 Paws for Ability, Koozie Group, and everyone who helped bring us to this moment.”
During training, the family experienced a turning point while practicing with Affi at the National Museum of the United States Air Force. It was their first time using the tethering system in a busy public setting. Watching Affi help keep Wyatt grounded and safe gave Stephanie a sense of relief she had not felt in years.
“For Stephanie, walking into the training class was an instant relief,” said KaLynn Clark, Development Director of 4 Paws for Ability. “The support of the other families and trainers helped make an overwhelming time feel manageable, and the Turners’ graduation is a powerful example of how a service dog can change what is possible for a family.”
Koozie Group’s 2026 donation continues the company’s support of 4 Paws for Ability and its mission to provide life-changing service dogs to children and veterans. The company welcomed The Promo Pups, its second sponsored litter of puppies, in January and has contributed more than $64,000 to 4 Paws since 2022.
“Service dogs create possibilities for families who have spent years navigating challenges that most people never see,” said Pierre Montaubin, CEO of Koozie Group. “The Turner family’s story shows the lasting impact of this work, and we are proud that our support helped them reach this important moment with Affi.”
Through its Keep It. Give It.™ vision, Koozie Group supports programs that create a lasting, positive impact in the communities where its facilities are located. The company is proud to continue supporting organizations like 4 Paws for Ability to help make a difference in the lives of children, veterans, and their families.
