Shaneka + Max

The Shelter to Soldier team adopted Max from Wags & Walks under the generous Red Star Sponsorship of Logomark! Our team welcomed Max on November 16th, 2023 where he dove straight into training picking up on his basic commands fairly quickly. In just less than 4 months, Max would be matched with US Navy Veteran, Shaneka. 

Shaneka, a Gulf War veteran, was introduced to Shelter to Soldier through a mental health physician at the VA. During her military service, she served as a hospital corpsman for eight years, a role that brought her immense joy through the spirit of giving and nurturing—especially when working in the newborn nursery. Unfortunately, Shaneka’s service also led to struggles with anxiety and hypervigilance, making it difficult for her to trust others.

Thanks to the support of Max, the Shelter to Soldier team, and her boyfriend Craig, Shaneka has rediscovered her confidence and gained a newfound sense of independence. In addition to her dedicated service, Shaneka has earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice and is now pursuing her Master’s in Education and School Counseling with a PPS Credential. Her resilience, bravery, and selflessness are a true testament to the strength our community needs, and we are incredibly proud of all she has accomplished.

Shaneka and the rest of the team will be celebrating their graduation on January 8th, 2025, surrounded by friends, family, and Max’s sponsor, Logomark.