Meet Wena

Wena's name means Happiness

Birthday:  November 1, 2009
Favorite Toy:    Soccer ball

When Wena isn't working, she enjoys playing ball, hugs and meeting new friends. 

Wena was trained by Canine Companions for Independence in Medford NY.

CCI Trainer   Stacey Szpyt

Puppy Raiser:      Beth Scheuerlein
Our Program

For years trained service dogs have assisted people with disabilities, helped comfort the sick, elderly and assisted with Veterans returning from war.  In 2003 prosecutor Ellen O'Neill- Stephens began using a service dog trained by Canine Companions of Independence to assist traumatized victims during the criminal justice process, calm a sometimes chaotic courthouse and to make a confusing environment a little friendlier. This was so successful, Ellen and her good friend Celeste Walsen founded Courthouse Dogs, the inspiration behind our program "Dogs Making A Difference".  We look forward to their continued guidance as we work toward introducing Wena to Massachusetts and the concept of service trained dogs offering comfort and support to victims of crime, both within the courts and the community, and as they move forward with their lives.


Our Executive Director, Laurie Myers attended Team Training at the Northeast Canine Companions for Independence facility in Medford NY.  During the intensive two week training,  she was teamed up with Wena, a two year old Lab/Golden mix selected by Canine Companions for this type of work and for our organization. 


If you are a District Attorney, Forensic Examiner, Prosecutor, Attorney, or social worker and you think your client may benefit from having the calming influence of having Wena present, please contact Laurie Myers, lmyers@communityvoices.net or 617-515-2079





Crime victims in Massachusetts have a new best friend.
A special thank you to Gavin for the generous donation of $100.00 to our program.
A program of VOICES


Providing support,  comfort and advocacy within the criminal justice system and the community
Dare to reach your hand into the darkness to bring another into the light.