BJ Ganem, co-founder and CEO of Sierra Delta, joined Karisa Maxwell and the Sports Philanthropy Network on Radio Row at the Super Bowl. He shared his insights into the importance of providing appropriate dog therapy for military veterans through Sierra Delta’s innovative programs.
BJ Ganem
BJ Ganem is a decorated Marine Corps veteran and dedicated advocate for veterans’ well-being. After enlisting in the Marines in 1996, he served four years on active duty before joining the Marine Corps Ready Reserves. In 2004, during a deployment in Iraq, BJ’s Humvee was struck by a roadside bomb on Thanksgiving night, resulting in the loss of his left leg and other injuries. This life-altering event marked the beginning of a challenging transition from military to civilian life.
Determined to overcome adversity, BJ pursued higher education, earning a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Southern California. He channeled his experiences into helping fellow veterans navigate their own transitions, working with organizations like the Semper Fi Fund. In 2017, inspired by mentors such as Bill Bishop, Tom McCann, and President George W. Bush, BJ founded Sierra Delta: Service Dogs for Veterans. The organization aims to provide personalized dog therapy programs to veterans, addressing the limited access to effective dog therapies and striving to serve tens of thousands of veterans nationwide.
Beyond his organizational work, BJ is an accomplished motivational speaker, sharing his journey and insights with diverse audiences. He has appeared on platforms like The Late Show with David Letterman and has addressed crowds at events featuring bands like Chicago and the Beach Boys. BJ also captains the Wounded Warrior Amputee Football Team, demonstrating resilience and leadership both on and off the field. His commitment to empowering others through his experiences continues to inspire and effect positive change within the veteran community and beyond.
Sierra Delta is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering military veterans through the therapeutic bond with dogs. Recognizing that every dog has the potential to serve, Sierra Delta offers tailored support, dog training grants, and community resources to enhance veterans’ well-being. Their mission centers on fostering a wellness community rooted in service to others and the love of dogs.
The organization’s flagship initiative, the Life Buddy Program, provides veterans with access to various levels of dog training. This includes basic obedience, advanced skills, and medical-assisted training, ensuring that each veteran-dog pair receives support tailored to their unique needs. By facilitating these training opportunities, Sierra Delta strengthens the bond between veterans and their canine companions, promoting mutual growth and healing.
Beyond individual training, Sierra Delta fosters a vibrant community where veterans, dog trainers, and supporters connect. Through events like golf outings and dog walks, members engage in shared experiences that build lasting relationships. This sense of community not only provides support but also empowers veterans to lead purposeful lives alongside their dogs.
WATCH INTERVIEW
0:00 – The organization is introduced, highlighting its mission to support veterans through service dogs.
0:30 – The difficulties veterans encounter after their service are discussed, emphasizing the need for support systems.
1:00 – The positive impact of service dogs on veterans’ mental and emotional well-being is explored.
1:30 – Details about Sierra Delta’s collaboration with the NFL to expand their reach and resources are provided.
2:00 – Personal anecdotes from veterans who have benefited from the program are shared.
2:30 – An overview of how dogs are selected and trained to become service animals is given.
3:00 – Efforts to involve local communities in supporting veterans and service dogs are highlighted.
3:30 – The organization’s plans for growth and expanding their services are discussed.
4:00 – Information on ways individuals can contribute to the cause is provided.
4:30 – The video concludes with a summary of the partnership’s significance and a call to action.
