Our Inspiration              

At One Paw at a Time, our mission is deeply inspired by the extraordinary life and work of Mary Cortani, the founder of Operation Freedom Paws. Mary’s journey shaped by her experiences as a veteran, trainer, and passionate advocate reminds us that,

"We are all the sum of our life experiences," Mary says. "But it’s what we do with those experiences that defines who we are."

Mary’s deep understanding of the human-canine bond came not just from study, but from lived experience. She recognized early on that healing doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens in community, with support, compassion, and patience. And at the center of that healing process, often, is the unconditional love of a dog.

You can support Operation Freedom Paws by:

  • Helping raise awareness through conversations, social media, and community outreach

  • Educating others about the importance of not distracting service dogs while they are working

  • Volunteering your time, talents, and skills

  • Donating to keep the program's life-saving services free for veterans, first responders, and other individuals in need

  • Attending events, sharing their mission, and becoming ambassadors for change

"Every little bit helps create a ripple effect," Mary said. "You never know whose life you might change just by caring."

At One Paw at a Time, we are honored to carry forward Mary’s vision a vision of a world where no one is defined by their disability, but by their courage, their healing, and their dreams.

Because everyone deserves the chance not just to survive but to truly live. To live with dignity, with hope, and with the unconditional support of a loyal companion by their side.

Together, we believe in the power of the human-animal bond. Together, we are building a community where healing is possible, freedom is attainable, and every step forward matters, one paw at a time.

Reflecting on her journey, Mary shared a piece of wisdom she wishes she had known from the start: the immense need for public education about the roles of service dogs, emotional support animals, and therapy animals.

"There’s so much misunderstanding out there," she said. "People don’t always recognize the difference and that lack of awareness can create barriers for those who need help the most."

That’s why raising awareness is such a critical piece of the mission today. Mary encourages everyone to get involved in whatever ways they can because every small act creates a ripple effect of understanding and change.