Volunteer Highlight: Christine Ferris & Legend
At CAPS, we are grateful for the volunteers who help us achieve our mission of supporting children and families in meaningful ways. This month, we’re excited to highlight a very special volunteer team: Christine Ferris and her therapy dog, Legend.
How It All Began
Christine was interested in volunteering with CAPS and was connected with the team in the spring of 2025. During their conversations, it became clear that her certified therapy dog, Legend, could bring comfort and joy to the CAPS staff.
By March 2025, everything was in place, and Legend began making monthly on-site visits to CAPS, with the goal of providing support and opening the door for opportunities. Since then, Legend has already attended CAPS events and several staff visits.
A Day in the Life of Legend
A typical volunteer day for Legend is simple, but powerful, he brings smiles by offering the gift of his gentle presence. Whether he’s attending a staff visit or supporting an event, Legend helps create moments of peace, connection, and comfort.
And how have staff responded to having him around? In Christine’s words: “Pawsitively in every way!”
Where Legend Thrives
Legend does especially well in outdoor activities and in situations where he can build close, connected relationships. He has a calming influence and often helps people simply by being present.
As Christine shares, “In his role as a therapy dog, I often see Legend lift hearts and change the emotional trajectory of individuals by simply being present with them. It’s a privilege to be on the other end of the leash.”
His Personality & Progress
Legend is calm, loving, affectionate, and very. These qualities make him well-suited to work with both children and families. His gentle disposition creates a sense of safety and comfort for those around him.
While Legend is doing amazing work, he’s still learning. One area of continued growth is building confidence around new people. Christine supports him by working daily in a variety of public places to maintain and develop his comfort and capacity to serve.
Looking Ahead
Christine’s hope for Legend’s future at CAPS is clear and heartfelt: “My greatest hope is that Legend can be present in as many ways as possible to offer comfort, hope, and encouragement to the staff, children, and families that CAPS serves.”
She envisions him playing a supportive role during difficult moments, including forensic interviews, supervised visits, and possibly even court proceedings. His presence has the potential to bring calm and reassurance to emotionally challenging situations.
The Impact of His Presence
Christine describes being part of this journey as “a tremendous honor.” She sees firsthand how Legend helps facilitate healing through his quiet presence and connection with others.
One CAPS team member also noted that Legend’s calm demeanor stood out from the very beginning: “He brings an instant surge of joy into every situation, and I love watching faces light up with happy smiles. He quickly adapts to his environment and provides a calming presence.”
Legend’s growing relationships and consistent presence offer long-term value—not only by helping people feel calmer and safer, but also by supporting the overall emotional climate of the organization. As one staff member shared:
“When staff are less stressed, they have more capacity to serve others well. When children feel safe, they can begin to heal.”
Thank you, Christine and Legend, for the comfort, hope, and encouragement you bring to CAPS.
