Be the Change: Transform Lives with UnChained
Change a Life. Give Hope. Transform the Future with UnChained.
At UnChained, every leash tells a story of hope. Since 2011, we’ve empowered at-risk youth and homeless dogs through the Canines Teaching Compassion (CTC) program—a program where second chances aren’t just possible, they’re life-changing. Youth learn patience, responsibility, and confidence, while dogs gain the skills they need to find forever homes. Together, they heal.
The Impact of Second Chances
✔ 380+ at-risk youth have transformed their lives through UnChained.
✔ 180+ rescue dogs have found loving homes.
✔ 92% of program dogs are adopted within just 30 days of graduation.
Join the Movement. Change a Life Today.
Every youth deserves a second chance. Every dog deserves a home. You can be the reason hope becomes reality.Volunteer, foster, or donate today—and be part of something truly life-changing.
Central Coast Youth in Need
At-risk youth face immense challenges—but hope is possible
At UnChained, we serve two vulnerable populations: at-risk youth and homeless dogs. Many youth in our program—primarily Latino males and females ages 11-24—have faced profound struggles: gang involvement, foster care instability, and substance abuse.
The Reality in Our Communities
✔ 1,340 youth were booked into Juvenile Hall in Monterey County in just one year.
✔ Monterey County had the highest youth homicide rate in California for four of five years (2009-2013).
✔ Many of these youth have endured trauma, neglect, or systemic barriers that make healing difficult.
But their past does not define them. Through UnChained, they discover self-worth, confidence, and purpose—one dog at a time.
The Impact of a Canine’s Compassion
Rescue a dog, heal a heart—this is the power of the human-animal bond.
At UnChained, youth don’t just train dogs—they build trust, confidence, and resilience alongside them.
Many of the dogs, like the youth, have faced neglect, abandonment, or trauma. But together, they find healing. Through relationship-based training, youth learn patience, responsibility, and respect—while the dogs gain the skills they need to find forever homes.
The Science Behind the Impact
✔ Social & Emotional Growth → Dogs offer unconditional companionship, helping youth develop self-control and empathy.
✔ Breaking Down Barriers → Studies show that dogs can reduce stress and fear, fostering emotional safety in ways human interventions often cannot.
✔ Transformation in Action → Youth gain self-confidence as they see their dogs overcome fear and thrive under their guidance.
Giving a dog a second chance at life also gives these young people an opportunity to heal themselves.
Want to see the impact firsthand?
Experience the journey of transformation—read inspiring stories or attend an UnChained Graduation Ceremony to witness the power of second chances.
What Our Board Members Make Possible
UnChained’s Board Members drive impact, shape strategy, and create second chances for both youth and rescue dogs. Here’s how they help transform lives:
✔ Celebrating Transformations – Attending graduation ceremonies to witness firsthand the growth of UnChained Youth Trainers and their dogs.
✔ Expanding Our Reach – Representing UnChained at key events to increase awareness and foster new partnerships.
✔ Driving Innovation – Leading strategic initiatives in curriculum development, data management, and organizational growth.
✔ Engaging the Community – Volunteering at fundraising and awareness events that support UnChained’s mission.
Board service is more than leadership—it’s a commitment to empowering lives. Join us and be part of this transformation.
Be a Leader. Be a Change-maker. Transform Lives with UnChained.
Every youth deserves a mentor. Every dog deserves a home. As a board member, you have the power to create second chances that change lives—forever.
Why Join UnChained’s Board?
Serving on UnChained’s board is more than a leadership role—it’s a chance to create lasting change. You’ll mentor at-risk youth, help shelter dogs find homes, and drive a mission that transforms futures.
Your Impact as a Board Member:
✔ Change Lives Every Day → Mentor at-risk youth and give shelter dogs the second chance they deserve.
✔ Lead with Impact → Use your expertise to help UnChained grow and reach more communities.
✔ Shape the Future of Animal-Assisted Healing → Provide strategic guidance to expand our programs and deepen our impact.
What We Ask of You
As a board member, you’ll help UnChained grow and ensure that more youth and dogs get the support they need. Here’s how you can make a difference:
Commitment Overview:
✔ Time Commitment → Attend 4 board meetings per year (2 in-person, 2 virtual) and support ongoing initiatives.
✔ Leadership & Strategy → Help guide UnChained’s growth and ensure sustainable impact.
✔ Advocacy & Community Engagement → Use your voice, connections, and expertise to strengthen our mission.
Step Up. Lead with Heart. Make an Impact.
Now is the time to take action. If you believe in second chances—for both youth and dogs—join our board and help us create real, lasting change.
MAKE A DONATION
Support UnChained by making a simple donation or celebrate a beloved pet, person or event with a special in-honor donation to create new opportunities for our community’s youth and the dogs they train.