Building a Healthy Relationship with Your Nonprofit Board – With Laura Edwards

Laura Edwards is the Executive Director of Sunrise Service Dogs, bringing over a decade of invaluable experience in the assistance dog industry. She joined the organization in January 2022, leveraging her expertise in innovative program development, process cultivation, and resource optimization.

Edwards’ journey in the field began in 2012 when she founded Disco’s Dogs, Inc., a Colorado-based nonprofit dedicated to placing service dogs with children on the Autism spectrum. Her leadership as Executive Director demonstrated her commitment to enhancing lives through the human-canine bond.

In 2017, Edwards facilitated the merger of Disco’s Dogs with Freedom Service Dogs of Englewood, Colorado, where she assumed the role of Director of Dog Operations. In this capacity, she oversaw crucial departments including Animal Health, Reproduction and Genetics, Puppy Development, and Training programs.

Edwards’ strategic vision and problem-solving skills came to the forefront when she was tasked with addressing the organization’s declining placement rate which led to the creation of a purpose-bred program focusing on Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers. This initiative significantly improved the placement rate from 9% to over 40%, benefiting individuals with various disabilities across the United States.

At Sunrise Service Dogs, Edwards continues to apply her extensive knowledge and passion for service dog training and placement. Her professional journey exemplifies a dedication to improving lives through the powerful connection between humans and specially trained canines.