HISTORY:

ICAN, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

ICAN was founded in Indianapolis, IN in 2001 by Sally Irvin, Ph.D. Dr. Irvin's interest in creating connections between behaviorally at-risk individuals, animals, and persons with physical disabilities led to the initiation of this non-profit organization.

The ICAN program began at Pendleton Juvenile Correctional Facility, initially working with two incarcerated adolescents. Interest has grown rapidly and the program has now expanded to included offerings at three central Indiana locations. Since ICAN's beginning in September of 2001, ICAN has placed 11 skilled companion or assistance dogs with children and adults in Indiana. Additionally, ICAN has placed 17 in-home therapy dogs.

ICAN is seeing amazing results.


Adult Offender-Handlers

• 97% handlers demonstrated improvement in empathy and lessened depression
• 87% handlers showed improvement in positive communication skills
• Correctional Staff report overall decrease in general offender acting out on dorms where pups in training were assigned.
• 95% handlers passed test for Certification as Pet Care Technicians from the American Boarding Kennel Association.