Beacon, N.Y. — Guardian Revival partnered with Merck’s Veterans Leadership Network (VLN), and the company’s animal health division, Merck Animal Health, to award an 8.6-week-old labradoodle puppy to Don, a military veteran and former first responder, through Guardian Revival’s Boots & Paws program, which provides free companion dogs, along with a year of care and follow-up support, to help strengthen the mental health and well-being of military, veterans, and first responders.

Poughkeepsie, NY - April 30, 2026 - Marshall+Sterling, in partnership with Guardian Revival’s Boots & Paws program, supported the awarding of a companion dog to a local veteran and first responder, marking the program’s fourth placement this year and reflecting Marshall+Sterling’s broader Impact+ commitment to strengthening health and well-being across the communities it serves.

Combining a festive race-day atmosphere with a meaningful cause, the Guardian Revival 5K in Carmel, N.Y., invites participants of all ages and abilities to come out, have fun, and show their support for the military, veterans, and first responders.

Online registration is open now at:

runsignup.com/Race/NY/Carmel/Guardian5k

Guardian Revival is proud to announce the official launch of Rise, a comprehensive wellness program designed to help military members, veterans, and first responders enhance their focus, energy, and overall well-being. The strength and resilience of our nation’s guardians come at a cost. Long shifts, high-stress environments, and constant physical and mental demands take a toll. Rise is here to help change that.

Guardian Revival CEO Aaron Leonard was interviewed for an article in The Highlands Current about a recent statewide survey of 6,000 first responders that highlights the mental health challenges faced by police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and emergency dispatchers. Many hesitate to seek help due to stigma and career concerns — something that Guardian Revival actively works to change, both in terms of fighting the stigma and actively helping our guardians towards improved mental health & well-being.

A Letter from our Executive Director as we remember that day and those who are no longer with us. We honor the guardians who gave the ultimate sacrifice in service of others and all the guardians affected by that day. Includes a video clip about 9/11 from our upcoming mini-documentary highlighting our Boots & Paws program.