After experiencing the life-changing magic that a 4 Paws for Ability service dog provides, Gretchen Taylor and Justin Combs were inspired to a deeper commitment: joining the 4 Paws for Ability Board of Directors.
Both Justin and Gretchen are parents to children who have received 4 Paws service dogs. Justin’s daughter, Stella, was matched with Velda, a service dog from the Heat Wave Class of 2022. Velda’s impact was immediate and undeniable.
“Velda has been an amazing addition to the family, and she really shines when Stella is in medical settings,” Justin shared. “Velda helps keep Stella calm and helps her regulate her anxiety when she is in the hospital or doctor’s office.”
“Being on the 4 Paws board makes me proud because I see the effect these dogs have on the lives they touch, giving people peace, protection, and mobility. To be even a small part of making that happen for other people is amazing.”
Gretchen Taylor’s family also found new hope through a 4 Paws service dog. Her daughter was placed with Senna, a graduate of the Manatee Class in 2023. For Gretchen, the change was profound.
“Senna is an incredible member of our family. She is calm, brilliant, and loving,” she said. “She has helped our daughter grow tremendously by giving her more social and communication opportunities, helping her increase her mobility, and growing her toolbox to deal with frustration.”
These powerful personal experiences are what drive Justin and Gretchen’s commitment to serve on the Board of Directors.
Outside of their connection to 4 Paws, both bring a wealth of leadership and service to the board. Justin serves as Marketing Director at Field Aerospace and has spent most of his career in marketing across the aerospace and manufacturing industries. Gretchen is a dedicated English Language Arts teacher with Dublin City Schools, a member of the Dublin Education Foundation Board, and a volunteer coach and buddy leader with the Miracle League of Central Ohio.
But it’s their heartfelt connection to the mission that truly sets them apart.
“I can say with confidence that 4 Paws is a supremely well-run organization,” Gretchen said. “I have the utmost confidence in the stewardship of resources, leadership at all levels, and focus on mission. I am also grateful to have, and represent, a client perspective because I know the impact of a service dog as well as the joys and challenges that clients face.”
We are honored to welcome Justin Combs and Gretchen Taylor to the 4 Paws for Ability Board of Directors. Their journeys as parents, advocates, and leaders are a testament to the life-changing work we do every day.