Hats Off For Veterans has announced a new partnership with Veterans Assistance Dogs of Texas, a nonprofit organization dedicated to training and gifting rescue dogs to disabled Texas veterans.
VA Dogs of Texas, based in Kerrville, will join HOFV as a featured partner at the 21st Annual Hats Off BBQ Family Gala on April 19 at Texas Old Town in Kyle. Together, the two organizations will work to raise critical funds to connect veterans in need with trained service dogs, life-saving companions that provide emotional support, mobility assistance, and renewed independence.
Funds raised at this event, a celebrated Texas tradition, will also support HOFV’s mission of empowering Texas veterans through higher education scholarships and professional development grants, giving veterans the tools to build strong futures for themselves and their families.
“This partnership is about purpose, healing, and hope,” said Lisa Adams, Founder and CEO of Hats Off For Veterans.
“As of 2025, there are an estimated 1.5 million veterans residing in Texas, Adams said. “VA Dogs of Texas is doing extraordinary work in the veteran community, and we are honored to stand with them to help change lives, one Texas veteran, one service dog at a time.”
Founded in 2013, VA Dogs of Texas rescues and trains dogs to become highly skilled service companions for veterans living with disabilities such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury (TBI), mobility challenges and other service-connected conditions. The organization is led by Executive Director Jamie R. Cole, a retired U.S. Army veteran and author of “Jake the Service Dog.” Her story, featured in her children’s book available on Amazon, was inspired by the healing power of service dogs.
“A service dog not only supports a veteran physically, but emotionally,” said Cole. “These dogs reduce isolation, build confidence, and save lives. We’re grateful to partner with Hats Off For Veterans to expand our mission and reach more Texas veterans who are waiting for a canine hero.”
For many veterans, especially those living with PTSD, the journey after service can feel isolating and overwhelming. Service dogs offer more than companionship, they provide emotional grounding, reduce anxiety, interrupt panic responses and create a sense of safety and independence. These highly trained dogs can detect signs of stress before a veteran even realizes it, offering comfort through physical connection and responsive behavior.
Studies have shown that veterans paired with service dogs report significant improvement in emotional stability, sleep quality and overall quality of life. Programs like VA Dogs of Texas bring not only skilled canine partners into veterans’ lives, but renewed hope and purpose.
For more information, or to learn more about VA Dogs of Texas, please visit their website at www.VADogs.org.
To participate in the HOFV 21st BBQ Gala, contact Lisa Adams at 512-682-5333 or [email protected]
