Our History: 19 Years of Impact
Rooted in Compassion (2005–2007)
Founded in 2005 in Winnebago County, Circle of Change began as a visionary effort to explore how the human-animal bond could heal those traumatized by circumstances beyond their control. Early initiatives served foster children and individuals with physical disabilities, proving that rescue dogs—animals that had often survived their own hardships—were uniquely qualified to help humans navigate their own recovery.
The Birth of the Hero Pillar (2007–2025)
In late 2007, in response to a growing need for specialized PTSD support, we launched our veteran-focused dog program. Developed in collaboration with local mental health professionals and expert trainers, this initiative pioneered a non-traditional approach to wellness. Over the next nearly two decades, the program expanded to include First Responders, evolving into what is now our Hero Program. We discovered that by teaching heroes to train dogs, we provided them with a new mission and a powerful tool for social-emotional reconnection.
The 2026 Strategic Rebirth
After 19 years of service, Circle of Change underwent a deliberate period of 'Institutionalization' in late 2025. This transition shifted the organization from a founder-led model to a professional, board-stewarded institution. Today, we carry our history forward with modernized, evidence-based systems. Our Hero and Youth programs are now supported by rigorous state compliance, standardized curricula, and a commitment to long-term sustainability. Our legacy isn't just in the years behind us, but in the resilient systems we have built to serve Winnebago County for the next twenty years.
Our Mission & Core Values
Mission Statement
Circle of Change aspires to transform the lives of high-risk populations, including veterans, at-risk children, and first responders, by pioneering innovative dog training programs and evidence-based peer mentorship. We are dedicated to fostering resilience, cultivating social-emotional health, and empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives, thus achieving a significant reduction in suicide risk.
Core Values
Program Excellence
Innovation & Effectiveness: We are committed to developing and implementing creative and effective programs that address the evolving needs of our target populations and achieve meaningful outcomes.
Evidence-Based Practice
We ground our practices in research and data, continuously evaluating our programs to ensure they are informed by the best available knowledge and produce positive results.
Integrity & Accountability
We operate with the highest ethical standards, transparency, and responsibility, ensuring that we are accountable to those we serve, our stakeholders, and our commitment to ethical practices.
105
Total Classes Delivered in 2025
THE NUMBERS