DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA) — Pawprint Ministries, a non-profit organization based in Decatur that provides free training for comfort dogs, held its inaugural tailgate fundraiser on Saturday.

Their 45 dogs have made more than 15,000 visits to hospitals, cancer centers and other facilities in the past 11 years.

The organization’s executive director said the event is raising money so they can keep training these dogs who are making a difference.

“It’s incredible to see these dogs in action,” said Jennifer Dahn, the founder and executive director. “When they enter these facilities, they bring immense compassion, eager to offer hugs. In times when everything feels chaotic, that’s exactly what’s needed.”

Dahn added she never would have imagined how far Pawprint Ministries has come and aims to keep expanding it in the future.