Big Paws Canine Foundation in Jackson, TN
This morning’s Biscuits ’n’ Tips gathering brought our community together for a meaningful conversation about service, gratitude, and local impact. Our guest speaker, Mike Webb of Big Paws Canine Foundation, shared stories that reminded everyone in the room why community‑driven work matters.
A Life of Service
Mike Webb spent decades serving others through retail leadership, volunteer firefighting, law enforcement support, and long‑term nonprofit work. After retiring earlier this year, he chose to invest his time in a cause that reflects both gratitude and purpose.
He spoke honestly about one lifelong regret. He never served in the U.S. military. When Big Paws Canine Foundation founder Steve Slavik approached him, that moment changed everything.
Big Paws Canine Foundation began with a clear mission. The organization places highly trained service dogs with veterans living with PTSD, mobility challenges, and other service‑related needs. Over time, the mission expanded to include law enforcement officers, firefighters, and EMS professionals.
Today, Big Paws Canine Foundation continues that work while strengthening the communities that support it.
Learn more about the organization at
👉 www.BigPawsCanine.com
How Big Paws Canine Foundation Changes Lives
During the talk, Mike shared stories that stayed with everyone in the room.
One veteran struggled for months without responding to treatment. When a Big Paws service dog entered the room, he reached out for the first time in nearly a year.
Another veteran contacted the foundation during a moment of crisis. He later shared that applying for a service dog gave him hope and direction. That single step saved his life.
Big Paws Canine Foundation has now placed more than 500 service dogs nationwide. Every placement relies on volunteers, trainers, veterinarians, and community support. Volunteers care for the dogs, train them, and build lasting bonds before placement.
This work changes lives on both ends of the leash.
The Community First Project Comes to Jackson
One of the most exciting updates involved the Community First Project, a program that brings fundraising back to the local level.
Through this model, 50 percent of net proceeds return directly to the host community. The remaining funds support service dog placement across the country.
That approach means when you attend a Big Paws Canine Foundation in Jackson TN event, you support national impact and local growth at the same time.
The Ledge proudly hosts one of these upcoming events.
Upcoming Big Paws Canine Foundation in Jackson TN Events
Our community has two opportunities this summer to show up, connect, and give back.
Gun‑O‑Rama Community Event
Saturday, July 18, 2026
5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
The Lodge
3541 Highway 70 East, Jackson, TN 38305
This high‑energy evening brings people together for fun, raffles, and community connection. Proceeds from this event roll directly into the August fundraiser at The Ledge.
Community First Project at The Ledge
Saturday, August 15, 2026
Doors open at 4:30 PM, event begins at 5:00 PM
The Ledge
3581 Highway 70 E, Jackson, TN 38305
This event serves as the heart of the Community First Project in Jackson. Guests enjoy food, auctions, fellowship, and powerful stories of impact. Our hall will feel full, welcoming, and alive.
How Service Dog Placement Works
Mike also explained how individuals apply for support.
The process starts online with an application at BigPawsCanine.com. After that, the foundation conducts interviews and works with medical professionals to confirm needs. Psychiatric professionals assist with PTSD evaluations, including providers based in Tennessee.
Training takes time and care. Dogs train for up to a year and receive ongoing support even after placement. Trainers visit recipients in their homes to ensure the dog integrates into daily life.
Every step centers on dignity, respect, and long‑term success.
Why This Work Matters to Our Community
Big Paws Canine Foundation represents more than a nonprofit. It represents neighbors helping neighbors. It represents veterans, first responders, and families who deserve support close to home.
At The Ledge, we believe education, enrichment, entertainment, and events should strengthen community roots. These events do exactly that.
When you attend, you help place service dogs. You support local nonprofits. You help this space grow into what our community needs it to be.
How You Can Help Right Now
You can make a real difference with simple actions.
- Attend one or both upcoming events
- Invite friends, family, and coworkers
- Talk about Big Paws Canine Foundation in Jackson, TN in your circles
If people show up, lives change. That truth guides everything Big Paws does.
Our hall is your hall. Your presence shapes what happens here next. We invite you to be part of it.