About Us/Our Mission
HEALING HEARTS & MINDS — ONE DOG, ONE LIFE
The Kadence Legacy Fund provides professionally trained PTSD service dogs at no cost to veterans and first responders. Our mission is to foster independence, emotional well-being, and healing, honoring Kadence’s legacy — one dog, one life at a time.
Our Vision
A Canada where every veteran or individual affected by PTSD has access to the life-changing support of a service dog — restoring hope, strength, and purpose through partnership and compassion.
Our Core Values
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Compassion: We approach every individual and every dog with empathy, understanding, and respect.
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Integrity: We maintain transparency and accountability in everything we do.
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Commitment: We are devoted to measurable, lasting change in the lives of veterans and those affected by PTSD.
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Collaboration: We work with businesses, donors, and communities to create sustainable partnerships.
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Legacy: Every dog trained and every life changed is part of Kadence’s enduring legacy.
One Dog, One Life Program
We train and place service dogs to provide:
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Independence, confidence, and emotional support
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Structured training with certified professionals
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Early veteran involvement to strengthen bonding
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Ongoing mentorship, veterinary care, and guidance
95% of every donation goes directly to training and placing service dogs, while only 5% supports essential administration.
Why We Are Different
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Veteran-founded and veteran-driven, combining lived experience with professional project management.
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Focused on direct, measurable impact — your support changes lives immediately.
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Strategic partnerships and community-driven programs ensure sustainability and maximum reach.
Partner or Donate
Your partnership or donation helps us train and place service dogs that bring hope, independence, and life-changing support to veterans and others living with PTSD.
Donate Today — One Dog, One Life.
Leadership Bio's
Tina Gillies, Founder & Director
Tina brings military leadership, media, and nonprofit expertise to guide the Kadence Legacy Fund. Her experience includes service in Afghanistan, project management, and community advocacy. Tina ensures the organization stays true to its mission: changing lives through service dogs — one dog, one life at a time
Derek Pimiskern, Co-Founder/Director
Derek is a veteran with over 20 years of military service and extensive experience in community-focused roles. He oversees operational support, grassroots fundraising, and program implementation for the fund. Derek’s dedication ensures every service dog placement creates lasting impact for veterans and individuals living with PTSD.
Legal & Governance
Kadence Legacy Fund is a federally incorporated Canadian not-for-profit organization operating in compliance with the Canada Not-for-Profit Corporations Act. Your generosity helps us train service dogs, support veterans, and build a legacy of hope — one life at a time.