Who We Are, Why We Serve

PAWS is a NonProfit Organization in Colorado Providing Veterans with Life Changing Resources

How do we help veterans who are suffering post-traumatic stress disorder get their lives back?  Is there a way to stop even one veteran from taking their own life due to the effects of post-traumatic stress? Those are the questions Michael Connors is trying to answer.      

A combat veteran himself, Michael knows the uncertainty service members face when returning from overseas deployments, often not getting access to the services needed to overcome the invisible wounds of war once they retire. On average, 22 veterans a day lose their battle to those invisible wounds and commit suicide.  Service dogs have long been proven as a benefit to those suffering from PTSD and helping those veterans win their battle.    

The Mission Of PAWS

Filling the void in necessary care for veterans and first responders by providing life changing services that include recreational therapy opportunities and assistance animals focused on giving our nations heroes their freedom and independence back while presenting them with a new purpose.

Meet the Founder & President:

Retired Army Staff Sergeant, Michael Connors

After more than a decade of service in the U.S. Army and reaching the rank of Staff Sergeant, Michael was medically retired in 2016. During his 18-month recovery at Walter Reed Medical Center, he witnessed firsthand the challenges many veterans face after service. Experiences that shaped his commitment to helping others navigate that same path.

Determined to continue serving, Michael dedicated himself to supporting veterans through animal-assisted services and mental health advocacy. Following his retirement, he attended Animal Behavior College while working with organizations certified by Assistance Dogs International, gaining hands-on experience in professional service dog training.

In 2018, Michael launched his full-time canine training business, Colorado K9 Company (formerly Connors K9 Academy), with a mission to provide highly trained service dogs to veterans in need. His leadership and expertise also helped establish another veteran-focused organization, further strengthening his impact within the veteran community.

As a disabled veteran who understands the challenges of transition firsthand, Michael felt called to do more. In 2022, he created a program through Colorado K9 Company focused on providing custom-trained service dogs to veterans. That program quickly grew into the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization known today as PAWS, continuing his mission to serve those who served.

Board of Directors

A smiling couple takes a selfie on a beach at sunset, with a child playing in the water behind them. The man wears sunglasses, a hat, and a blue jacket, while the woman wears sunglasses. The sky is colorful with the sun setting, and the ocean is calm.

Vice President

Wade Lancaster

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Secretary

Caitlin Connors

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Programs Director

Claire Hodgkins

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Veteran Resources Director

Robert Lilly

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Marketing Director

Taylor Ratliff

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Events & Volunteer Director

Abby Lancaster

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Financial Director

James Estes

Community Partners Director

Jeron Boemer