History
Paws With a Purpose began as a pilot program with two teams in the Pediatric unit at Mission Hospitals in October of 1999. Community interest and support for pet therapy services lead to the incorporation of Paws with a Purpose in June, 2002. It was the realization of a 
personal dream of founder, Pam Hardin and inspired by Pam's therapy dog, Bubba the Basset Hound.
Today, Paws With a Purpose has over 80 volunteer therapy dog teams that visit Mission Hospitals, other area health care facilities, retirement communities, and a growing number of community agencies in the Asheville, NC area.
All therapy dog visits are offered free of charge as a community service. Paws With a Purpose is governed by a Board of Directors and is supported by corporate sponsors and caring individuals in the community.
In 2006, Paws With a Purpose received the North Carolina Hospital Volunteers state project award in patient related category.
In 2007, Paws Founder and Executive Director Pam Hardin and her therapy dogs Smudge and Dooley, received Honorable Mention in the Delta Society Beyond Limits Award competition.
Life is a journey and not a destination. My work with Paws with a Purpose has been a very powerful part of the journey. I have met many remarkable people along the way who give generously of their time, talents and resources and work tirelessly to improve the lives of others. It keeps my life grounded and in perspective while I am helping others. I do not find the situations I am faced with depressing, but rather uplifting and inspiring, as I am amazed at the courage and grace our clients display when faced with their life challenges of disabilities and disadvantages, chronic illnesses, poverty, injuries and end of life situations. My experiences as a pet therapy volunteer have shaped my life and made me the person I am today.
Pam Hardin, Founder and Executive Director
Definitions
Animal Assisted Activities (AAA) provides individuals with motivational opportunities. Interaction is not targeted towards any one individual and generally there are no treatment goals or documentation of the visits.Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) is a goal-directed intervention in which the animal meets specific criteria and is an integral part of the treatment process. AAT is directed or delivered by a health/human service professional. Specified goals and objectives are targeted for the individual and progress is measured and recorded.
Volunteers
Volunteers both human and canine are Paws With a Purpose most valuable assets. All therapy dog visits and the majority of administrative support are provided by volunteers.
Costs
There is no charge for Paws With a Purpose services.
