​June 27th is recognized as Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Day. PTSD is a mental health problem that people can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event like combat, a natural disaster, car accident or sexual assault. It affects about 1 in 10 men and 2 in 10 women who have had a traumatic event in their lives. For those who serve or have served in our military, experiencing combat and stressful situations is not uncommon, and in turn, can put military members at an elevated risk of being affected by PTSD. 
The Checkered Flag Foundation recognizes the importance of supporting veterans suffering from PTSD. As a part of their overall mission to aid our nation’s heroes, they have worked to implement programs and fundraising efforts that assist military members who are affected by this mental health condition. ​
​Since 2017, The Checkered Flag Foundation has developed a partnership with Black Paw Canine; a veteran owned and operated company that trains canines to become both service and law enforcement canines.  Together they have been able to raise donations and implement programs that support military members and their families in their road to recovery. Programs include opportunities to provide service canines free of cost to select veterans who have selflessly served our country on the frontlines. 
 
Watch the below video to learn more about this partnership and how a Black Paw Canine trained service animal can benefit those suffering from PTSD.