Scout’s Meaningful Mission A BLACK LAB’S ROLE IN TRANSFORMING A VETERAN’S LIFE
For former U.S. Army Cavalry Scout Ryan Finch, life after his tour of duty was a battlefield of its own. Haunted by PTSD (post- traumatic stress disorder) and the weight of his experiences, Ryan struggled to navigate even the simplest moments of daily life. But then Scout came into his life and became a lifeline, a symbol of hope, and a steadfast partner in his journey toward healing. Scout, a vibrant black Lab, has done more than help Ryan manage his anxiety; he’s transformed his world. Crowds and loud noises, once overwhelming triggers, are now manageable with Scout by his side. Soccer games, family gatherings, and the everyday joys of life that once seemed impossible are now part of Ryan’s new normal. Scout’s presence allows Ryan to enter spaces he never
thought he’d enter again, not as a man weighed down by his past, but as a father, a husband, and a human being rediscovering connection. The story of how Scout came into Ryan’s life feels almost destined. Before his deployment, Ryan and his wife had adopted a black Lab, coincidentally named Scout, who died before Ryan went overseas and whose loss Ryan never truly reconciled as he was away from home. So, when Ryan arrived at K9s For Warriors, and the trainers introduced him to his new service dog — a black Lab named Scout — it was a moment of profound healing and renewal. It was as if life had come full circle, offering Ryan a second chance at hope. K9s For Warriors is a testament to the life-changing power of service animals.
Determined to combat the devastating reality that 20 veterans die by suicide every day, this program rescues and trains dogs to become service animals for veterans grappling with PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and military sexual trauma. The result is transformative. Veterans find independence, confidence, and purpose, while rescue dogs gain a life of devotion and meaning. The impact is undeniable. Graduates of the program report mended family relationships, reduced medication reliance, and renewed joy in life. Ryan’s wife has seen the change firsthand, describing her husband as more engaged, animated, and hopeful for the future. Scout symbolizes resilience and proves that an incredible bond can heal even the deepest wounds.
OUR NEW CLIENT SERVICE SPECIALIST Say Hello to Caroline!
We’re excited to introduce Caroline, the newest member of our team at Wolf Retirement Navigation, to you! As our Client Service Specialist, Caroline will work closely with our clients, assist with administrative tasks, and ensure every interaction is smooth and seamless. She’s also earning her health and life insurance certification, which will allow her to provide even more support to our clients. Caroline comes to us with a strong background in customer service and finance. She recently earned her bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of North Florida in May 2024 and has always had a passion for financial planning (it runs in her family). She knew she wanted to build a career in finance; and when she found us, she saw the perfect opportunity to combine her skills and her desire to help people prepare for their futures. While working through college, she balanced her studies and prepared for a career in financial services. She understands the importance of
building relationships and is excited to bring that same level of care and attention to our clients here at Wolf Retirement Navigation. On a personal note, Caroline’s world became even more exciting in August 2024 when she welcomed her first child, a baby boy! She describes these last few months as the longest and shortest six months of her life — the days are long, but the months fly by! Being a new mom has given her an even greater appreciation for financial planning and preparing for the future. In addition to enjoying her career, Caroline loves being outdoors and spending time with her family, friends, and two rescue dogs — brothers from the same litter she adopted a year apart. She’s also a huge Jacksonville Jaguars fan, as evidenced by her season tickets, and enjoys attending games (even when the team has a rough season)! We’re thrilled to have Caroline aboard and know our clients will love working with her. Please join us in welcoming Caroline to the Wolf Retirement Navigation family!
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2 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU! Jacksonville & Fleming Island
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