American Warrior Initiative (AWI) Service Dog Event 2025
What was the 2025 AWI Service Dog Event?
On July 30, 2025, HNWG participated in the AWI Golf Tournament: Service Dog Event held at Langdon Farms Golf Club. The event was hosted by the American Warrior Initiative, which then sponsors Northwest Battle Buddies - an organization supported by Fairway's First Team. Together, they provide professionally trained service dogs to veterans battling PTSD, helping them regain their freedom and independence. This event was dedicated to raising funds to provide highly trained service dogs to veterans.
Heritage Sponsorship
Heritage NW Group (HNWG) was proud to be a Registration Sponsor for this meaningful event. Our logo was prominently displayed at the registration counter, and we set up our HNWG booth nearby, where Tara and Eryn engaged with attendees and handed out brochures, totes, mugs, and water bottles.
Our HNWG golf team- Alex, Seth, Jim, and Anthony—had a fantastic time participating. They were entered into several course drawings throughout the day, adding to the fun and excitement of the event.
The tournament concluded with a wonderful dinner, generously sponsored and presented by Parra Services Group.
Service Dog Presentation
On September 9th, Tara and Eryn had the honor of attending an incredibly moving event hosted by the American Warrior Real Estate Professionals at the AC Hotel in Downtown Vancouver, WA. This event was a powerful gathering dedicated to honoring veterans, giving back, and recognizing the deep cost of freedom.
Two professionally trained service dogs were gifted to veterans in need, including one veteran, Jeffrey Lacasse who received a $2,500 check to complete the training and certification process for his furry companion. Another veteran, Ronald Sparkman, a 13-year military service member with received multiple medals, was awarded a fully covered service dog, despite being unable to attend the presentation the support means a great deal to him.
The afternoon featured several heartfelt presentations, including one by Karen Vaughn, the mother of a fallen U.S. Navy SEAL. Karen spoke passionately about her mission to advocate for peace and a stronger, more resilient America. One message in particular resonated deeply: "We never lose sight of what freedom costs."
The mission of the American Warrior Initiative (AWI) is to empower real estate professionals to better serve veterans, not only through continuing education and training, but by actively meeting the needs of veterans in their communities. AWI boot camps offer CE credit opportunities while fostering real impact. Fairway also supports this mission through its Military Mortgage Specialist Designation - equipping mortgage professionals to serve active duty and former military members with excellence.
AWI's core values - honor, integrity, courage, selfless service, loyalty, education, encouragement, inspiration, and giving back - are powerful reminders that freedom should never be taken for granted. These values should be cherished, lived out, and passed on to future generations.
The Heritage Mission
We at HNWG are proud to support such an impactful initiative. Events like these remind us why we do what we do, and how even small acts of service can make a meaningful difference in someone's life. This mission is especially close to our hearts, as it focuses on supporting Disabled Veterans who need help to navigate daily life. At Heritage, we're deeply committed to uplifting those in our community who are living with disabilities, working to enhance their quality of life in meaningful ways. That's why it feels so fitting, and truly humbling, to support a cause that provides wounded warriors with service animals. These companions don't just offer comfort; they transform lives, empowering veterans with greater independence, stability, and hope each and every day.
What is next for AWI?
The Next event for AWI is Toss for Tails Cornhole Tournament March 26th, 2026 at Ilani Casino in La Center, Washington.