Aside from being one of the most worth while organizations that I have ever volunteered with, this organization has been a role model for non-profit excellence in Arizona. Participating in the Leadership Council for the Alliance of Arizona Non-profits, Founder Pam Gaber has won numerous Business and Leadership Awards in this state. Much f the success of my non-profit has come from the best practices that she has so graciously share to so many.
With the simple concept of "Stop the cycle of abuse!" This agency has grown to work with so many other Non-profits working with children that are abused in the Valley of the Sun, a population of4.5 million people (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phoenix_metropolitan_area) and Tucson as well.
The affect they are having not only on the children then have helped over 11 years, but on the adult population, creating awareness and a voice that is growing to cal to action, prevention for this (previously) unspeakable act! We ask that funders, continue to help keep this vibrant agency alive and growing with their cash donations and community support!
Gabriel's Angels is an outstanding organization. Their aim is to pair therapy dog teams with young people, helping them to experience the unconditional love and bond between dog and human; oftentimes these children have not had that chance at all. The same dog/handler team and child are paired whenever possible, so that strong bond is created. Not only are the kids experiencing this special bond, but they also are learning to trust and care for another being without the complications that are inherit in human relationships. Gabriel, a Weimaraner, was the "founding dog" of this great venture, along with his person, Pam. His legacy lives on in the hard work of the volunteers and the dogs that participate today. I am planning to volunteer with my own dog soon. You can offer a tax deductible donation here, or find more information : https://www.gabrielsangels.org
I had no cash to donate much, however I had a barely-running car. I was able to donate that and still got a tax deduction. Thank you for reading.
I've been supporting Gabriel's Angels for over 5 years. Each year I am more impressed by the good that they are doing in my community. I am a donor, I've volunteered and I now sit on the steering committee so I've been able to see how effectively this agency is run at all levels. The energy and professionalism that the CEO and Founder Pam Gaber brings to this agency is second to none. Pam couples her passion for Gabriel's Angels mission with her extremely savvy business sense. As a result Gabriel's Angels is one of THE BEST run organizations I have ever seen. This gives me a great deal of confidence as a donor because I know my funds are being placed at their best highest use for the abused and at risk children they serve. I know without a doubt that because of my involvement with Gabriel's Angels that I am making the state of Arizona a better place for these special needs children. For me that serves both my heart and my economic goals. There isn't a higher gift that a charity can bring to their community than this.
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I've worked with many charities over my professional career. However I have never worked with one that is as well run as Gabriel's Angels. This amazing organization combines the professionalism of the best run business with a heart of gold. I have been on visits with the therapy dogs and have witnessed mind blowing miracles as these special dogs reach abused children in a way no human can. I have also sat on committees and watched the effiiciency and joy with with the staff at Gabriel's Angels handles thier work. In my mind there isn't a better investment for my dollar or my heart than Gabriel's Angels.
I am proud to have served as the Board President of Gabriel's Angels 2007-2008. I found it to be an exceptionally well-run organization. The CEO and staff were and continued to be focused and disciplined as they pursue the organization's goals. They administer services that meet the organization's mission of delivering healing pet therapy to at-risk children, nurturing their emotional development and enhancing the quality of their lives forever in an exceptional manner, establishing solid relationships with the agencies they serve, the volunteers and business entities that support them and the communities in which they operate.
Dogs and kids. What could be more appealing. I volunteer with a Golden Retriever (Sophie) and her owner at an after school program at Phoenix Youth At Risk. We arrive at 4 PM just as the kids are finishing their snack. You should see their eyes light up when they see Sophie. The staff can barely contain the kids who want to jump up and immediately hug the dog. They are so excited! Shy kids become boisterous. Boisterous kids learn to share. "When are you coming back?" is the most often asked question. It's so gratifying to know I'm contributing to the the next generation who are learning compassion and caring from their interaction with the lovable Sophie.
Having personally observed the healing pet therapy Gabriel's Angels provides, I can unequivocally states that Gabriel's Angels works. The therapy teams are exceptionally well trained and skilled. The organization is fiscally responsible and organized. Its staff and volunteers are committed to its mission. At risk children in Arizona are learning healthy core behaviors, trust and empathy as the result of Gabriel's Angels. This organization is a blessing to so many.
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I have been fortunate to have seen Gabriel's Angels grow and flourish over past 10 years. Being a dog lover and advocate for children, this non-profit really got my attention. Initially, my involvement was limited as a supporter. In the last year, I was blessed to be asked to join the Board. I am honored to serve an organization that operates with such compassion, integrity and direction.
Most of us are incredibly blessed. But, for an alarmingly large portion of children in this world, that is not the case. Abuse and neglect represent the majority of their knowledge of adults and the world. For the loving spirit of a little grey puppy a revolution was born. A movement that many have experienced - the unconditional love of a pet can begin to make things better. The mission of Gabriel's Angels and the team and volunteers of this amazing organization know that to be true, not just in their own lives, but, daily in the lives of thousands of young people that are crying out to connect with another living soul.
My dog and I visit kids at the Crisis Nursery and see first hand how amazing the interaction and responses are between the dog and the children. Gabriel's Angels makes a difference in children's lives and I see it with my own eyes. The experience reminds us of how important it is to give of ourselves in some meaningful way. Thank you to Gabriel's Angels for giving us a special opportunity.
I have done charity work for many years. Gabriel's Angels is be far the most unique and rewarding experience I have ever had. You can feel the dedication from the top. Pam Gaber is an exceptional person. She does not just regard you as a Board Member or volunteer, she embraces you as part of her life. All the volunteers and Board Members are a reflection of Pam and her vison for both the organization and humanity.
To see firsthand a sulking, argumentative or introverted child wrap their arms around the neck of one of Gabriels Angels therapy dogs and open up and start to become an attentive, more caring child is a blessing to experience. The patience and kindness of GA's therapy teams are opening the potential of these children served.
In my experience, all children are really at-risk of being exposed to violence, abuse and neglect; regardless of their social or economic situation Gabriel's Angels helps these children know that there is such a thing as unconditional love. We accomplish this through pet therapy, but also through the commitment our volunteers bring to the community. My words can never say as much as a therapy visit can show. Gabriel's Angels four-legged and two legged volunteers care about the future of our children and unconditionally commit to making a difference in these precious young lives. We do so with compassion and empathy, and the knowledge that the love between an animal and a child can change the world.
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I have been involved with Gabriel's Angels for the last 5 years. Over this period of time on the Board of Director's, I have seen our organization grow from humble roots to national recognition. It is an honor to be part of this organization, and to watch it continue to grow. Having just finished the book on our founding dog, I am reminded of our growth and our relentless commitment and our passion for serving abused, at-risk and neglected children in our community. Thank you all involved, past and present, for your support and your desires to continue to see us grow!
My husband and I became a therapy team for Gabriel's Angels a year ago after we went to a breakfast and learned about the remarkable things this organization did to help break the cycle of violence by interacting with children by just visiting them with our dogs and becoming their friends. As soon as we walk in the door everyweek at the Boys & Girls Club he puts a smile on everyone’s face and he’s greeted like a “Rock Star” and they all swarm around him and give him hugs and then he starts putting out his paw for everyone to shake.
We have now truly seen the difference in the way children act and behave when Dakota’s there and we now are a part of those stories that Pam had shared with us the first year we came here. We’ve had kids that were very shy and hiding behind the pillows to now being the first one in the room and helping us bring out the supplies from our bag. When we sit down in a circle we have one girl that loves to lay down by Dakota and he always proceeds to snuggle over by her and lays his head on her chest – I think he knows she needs some extra loving. We know Dakota loves to visit the kids just as much as the kids love to see him because he'll go pull his vest from the bg and lay it on the floor for us to see. He was a rescue dog and I believe he's paying it forward by being a good friend to all our kids we visit.
A few short months ago I joined the marketing committee of Gabriel's Angels. I arrived having worked at or for some [arguably] some of the great companies in the world, from Kraft General Foods where I got my start in marketing to U.S. Trust where I was chief marketing officer. I spent nearly 20 years at Marketing Corporation of America as president division and working along side people with big brains and great ideas. We had big clients. Global clients. I've "rubbed elbows" with titans of industry from John Reed at Citi to Michael Eisner at Disney and witnessed them at work. Working with Pam Gaber, founder of Gabriel's Angel's, her crew and the volunteer teams is as exhilarating as any assignment I've experienced during my career. Recently, my wife and I, along with 1,100 other close friends and family recently attended a breakfast to "Unleash the Love" we all have for this incredible charity. To say the very least, it was a moving experience. We laughed, we cried, we celebrated. The healing pet therapy that these "Angels" bring to over 115 agencies and 13,000 at-risk children is nothing short of remarkable. I am in awe of the dedication and passion each and every person associated with this organization.
I have worked for many non-profits in the valley, I have been so impressed with Pam Gaber and her Gabriels Angels. Learning about pet theraphy and it's effect on children has been rewarding and emotional. Working with such a top notch organization has made my role so much easier, I applaud ll they do.
As a social worker in a prior career I have seen first hand the devastating effects violence, drugs and abuse can have on children. I am also a dog lover and know how amazing and therapeutic an animals attention can be. Gabriel's Angels so effectively puts the two together and helps children overcome obstacles you and I can not even begin to think about. I believe in the work they do, I see how dedicated Pam and her staff are. I am honored to be able to help them continue their mission in any way I can.
While I do not have therapy dogs myself, I volunteer at Gabriel's Angels to help them with administrative tasks. The work they do is extraordinary - touching at-risk children's lives every day. The work they do now has a huge impact on the adults these children will grow to become. By working with therapy animals, kids learn about empathy, love and trust, enabling them to lead caring, loving lives instead of one's that continue the cycle of abuse to which they've been exposed. Gabriel's Angels currently help 13,000 children a year. That's 13,000 hearts and lives every year that have been touched by these angels. I am honored to help them in my small way, knowing I am helping to truly change children's lives for the better.
Once you meet anyone associated with Gabriel's Angels you are hooked! I have the pleasure of working first hand with Pam Gaber, Founder/CEO as she will be the "Celebrate" keynote speaker for the Tempe Chamber of Commerce Women in Business Conference and Trade Show this year. Pam contributes to the community in so many ways and we truly appreciate her sharing her time and talent with us. Her true gift is the wonderful organization that she, along with staff, board of directors and volunteers, has created to change the lives of children and adults.
I proud to be a part of this great organization and look forward to being more involved in the future!
There are many Children and Family non-profit organizations, but the combination of having pets involved with the teaching of children through Gabriel’s Angels is what makes this Non Profit organization so extraordinary.
My wife and I (Pam & Joe) were fortunate in Feb of 2010 to receive our Golden Retriever, Dakota. Dakota is a “rescued dog” from an Arizona based golden rescue organization. We knew right away that he was a very special animal with a very special, loving disposition. We were then invited to attend the breakfast for Gabriel’s Angels in May 2010. We both attended and learned more about the remarkable work and benefits that Gabriel’s Angels provides to children that are at risk from many emotional and behavioral factors. It was from this breakfast meeting that we committed to ourselves and Dakota that we would become part of the Gabriel’s’ Angel’s therapy team. Together the three of us engaged in the training of Dakota, the certification program as a therapy dog, and the necessary approval process within Gabriel’s Angels. Our diligence and commitment has paid off as we are now an official member of this remarkable organization and actively involved in helping young children at a local Boys and Girls club. What a remarkable and satisfying journey this has been and we look forward to a long term commitment in helping young children through the Gabriel’s Angels program and the passion it has for Arizona communities.
Helping children and helping animals has always been my passion. Gabriel's Angels does both. By using therapy teams ( many of the dogs are rescues) Gabriel's is able to bring love, trust and empathy back to abused and neglected children. The gentle nature of the dogs bring a beautiful, gentle bond that might never have been possible to these poor children.If you've ever felt the warm nuzzle of a dog, or seen the excitement they feel when you greet them or had the chance to hug a dog after a hard day then you know the magic dogs can bring. Imagine what a child feels when Gabriel's Angels arrive, the rush of love they may have suppressed for years, the warmth in their heart they may never have known or the sheer joy a waggy tail can bring.
Gabriel's helps to heal the heart, mind and souls of these inncocent children. I cannot image anything that is more important or more valuable. I am a supporter for life.
Started volunteering with Gabriel's Angels as a mother daughter team with National Charity League. Loved it so got a golden retriever puppy to train to be a therapy team. Guinnes turned a year old and we were certified and ready to go helping kids. We have served 3 different places in the last 2 years and ready to start our 4th working with teenage girls.
Guinness loves his work and so do I!
Originally, I intended to join Gabriel's Angels as a pet therapy team, but that didn't work out for me and my dog, Emma. Instead I'm a helping hand who joins a pet therapy team. Together the three of us visit a domestic violence shelter every other Saturday morning. We have an hour with the children. Every visit is different as there are usually new families seeking shelter and others who have moved on. What is the same each time is that there is at least one child who has a breakthrough moment in working with us and our therapy dog. It's truly amazing and special each visit.
I have been involved with Gabriel's Angels as a volunteer for over 2.5 years. During this time I have seen for myself the positive impact that the therapy teams have on the children. It is incredible the connection between a child and a dog. My dogs love working with the children and the children are so happy when we come to visit. The more we visit, the more their behavior improves. I have been so impressed with the organization that my husband and I have moved GA to the top of our list for charitable donations.
With its targeted mission, Gabriel's Angels provides healing intervention through pet therapy and related program tools to children who have been subject to the most horrific crimes that a society can generate - abuse and neglect of those that look to adults for trust and guidance.
The positive results of what this organization accomplishes have been measured scientifically in many ways yet there are key intangible impacts created by the powerful bonds between therapy dogs and children that are beyond comprehension of the social sciences - that is the "magic" formula of Gabriel's Angels!
I've been a board member of Gabriel's Angels for under a year, but have watched the organization grow for a few years. The work that Gabriel's Angels does greatly impacts our community in Arizona, and truly makes a difference in children's lives. It is very powerful to watch abused and neglected children respond positively to the therapy dogs and see their smiles when a dog arrives. Additionally, this organization is very well-run, responsible, and a model for other nonprofits across the country. It is a delight to be a part of such a wonderful organization and help it achieve its mission to deliver healing pet therapy to abused, neglected and at-risk children, nurturing their ability to love and trust, thereby freeing them from the cycle of violence.
I watched a Gabriel's Angel volunteer and her dog spend time with a group of young children at the Crisis Nursery. The kids had hands on experience learning how to care for and love the animal as well as each other. What struck me was the transformation of the attitude of one child who shared that dogs had always been mean, so he was mean to them. At the end of time the team was there this child had his arms around the dog giving him kisses. It was a life's lesson for me.
With the number of kids struggling in these times, I wish there were more supporters of Gabriel's Angels so the organization could add more teams.
This organization has motivated the entire community toward the care of abused children. With the affection from their precious pets, the volunteers are able to cross barriers that were previously unsurmountable. Gabriels Angels team and leader are truely committed to the mission of their organization. I love supporting such a worthy cause.
I am currently a Helping Hand Volunteer with Gabriel's Angels, and am working with a Bull-Mastiff Puppy named Charlie to become a Therapy Team. I love this organization and believe in their philosophy whole-heartedly! I grew up in a home where there was material wealth, but I was not safe or valued. Whenever I felt sad, scared, angry, or hurt, I would play with my dogs. They showed me unconditional love and joy. When we go to the Sojourner Center with "Petey", the Therapy Dog, I can relate to these precious children, who just want to feel safe, loved, and happy. Seeing "Petey" each week does this for these kids. You can see it in their eyes, and in their huge smiles when we walk through the door. The most rewarding moments are when one of the kids, who has been shy and afraid to interact with "Petey", finally trusts, and pets him. Each week, they trust a little more, and they come to love and trust "Petey", and are empathetic to him as well. The un-conditional love "Petey" brings to these kids will impact them and stay in their hearts always. ......I know,......it stayed in mine:)
My husband came home from work one day and told me about this organization that his emplyer supported. I was lookng for an opportunity to "make a difference" and this sounded like the perfect match for me! My love of animals and inherent belief that we must do something to stop the cycle of violence and abuse drew me to Gabrie's Angels. In the short time (1 year) that I have been a volunteer, I know that my dog Bella has touched the lives of many children. What I wasn't prepared for was how strong of an impact the children have made on me. Their smiles, hugs and laughter when they see Bella and I walk through the door make my day! I am proud to be a part of Gabriel's Angels and the incredible work they do in our community.
I was introduced to this organization 5 yrs ago, I have seen it grow and grow and constantly help the children in need. They have a dynamic group of people and volunteers and it is always full of excitement at their orgainization. Glad to have met such a great group!!!
I was introduced to GA @ the annual brkfst 2 years ago. Later that year I was invited to join the Board. I had been invited to join many charity bds over the years but declined all.
GA was different from any other charity. The founder Pam Gaber impressed me with her dedication,drive and desire to help abused and at risk children. Her staff was positive about and immersed in the GA goals. The enthusiasm of the entire organization was electrifying. So I joined my only Charity Bd 18 months ago and I love this organization!
Larry K.
I have been a Board member for six years. I am honored to be a part of this organization and witness the systematic yet prudent growth in the organization and the number of children that benefit from our pet therapy. The staff and Board are very dedicated to our mission statement: Gabriel's Angels mission is to deliver healing pet therapy to abused, neglected and at-risk children, nurturing their ability to love and trust, thereby freeing them from the cycle of violence. This is a non-profit that is run from the heart.
I have been with Gabriel's Angels for over 4 years with Chelsea, my Delta Society registered Golden Retriever. We have visited abused and at risk teen girls who have been removed from their families and are pregnant or just had babies. We bring them unconditional love and "show up" in their life. Chelsea and I will become involved as part a new Crisis team and am honored to do so.
Each week is a different and very personal experience. My pup and I are so happy to have the opportunity visit.
Gabriel's Angel has united many teams like us with great children, making sure each interaction is a good fit and supplies the correct training to enable its volunteers to be effective.
I hope that Gabriel's Angels will continue to forge into new areas allowing it's teams to grow and remain engaged as they always have.
Chelsea's Motto: The best place in the world is next to someone who loves you!