AAA Western and Central New York is proud to introduce its newest member, Vanessa the service dog. While AAA doesn’t actually have pet membership available just yet, Vanessa did receive a warm welcome at AAA WCNY’s Amherst headquarters during a recent visit, which was all part of the organization’s partnership with WNY Heroes.

“We were thrilled to be a Service Dog Sponsor through WNY Heroes’ Pawsitive for Heroes program,” explained Susan Was, Vice President, Chief People & Impact Officer at AAA Western and Central New York. “Our Beacon Group members brought this idea to AAA and raised funds to support the goal of providing a service dog to a veteran in need.”

Beacon is one of AAA’s Associate Resource Groups, which focuses on diversity and inclusion and works towards achieving equity through openness, acceptance, and belonging. The effort, which included fundraising like internal raffles, began back in 2023 and finally came to fruition when U.S. Veteran Robert Cole, and his service dog Vanessa, walked through the doors of AAA to introduce themselves.

“I really appreciate Vanessa and all the support I’ve received,” said Cole as he visited with AAA’s Beacon members. “Following my time in the military, I realized I struggle with anxiety and depression. Having Vanessa has been a huge help. I hope that my story will help other veterans realize that hope is there and anything that they want to do is possible.”

Needless to say, Vanessa was a huge hit at the AAA headquarters in Amherst where she and Cole were presented with AAA swag for both humans and pets – some items were provided by the AAA Insurance team that offers pet insurance along with other coverage.

Vanessa completed her training with the Pawsitive for Heroes program, and she wears a service dog vest proudly displaying the AAA logo on a patch as she accompanies Cole nearly everywhere he goes.

“There’s no denying that this was a ‘pawsitive’ experience for both our associates and Cole,” Was said. “AAA was honored to take part in the collaborative effort and thrilled to meet Robert and Vanessa.”

Other organizations that are interested in sponsorship can learn more at WNY Heroes or Pawistive for Heroes Program.