Last week, Sheep Dog University (SDU) Course 4 graduates joined the ranks of Sheep Dogs across the nation who have taken their next step in service, leadership, and growth. This latest class completed the fourth cohort of SDIA’s national training and development program, designed to equip our members with the knowledge, skills, and mindset to better lead within their teams, communities, and beyond.
💡 What is Sheep Dog University?
Sheep Dog University is SDIA’s professional and personal development platform, a core part of our strategic vision for 2025 and beyond. Through a series of in-depth online and in-person courses, SDU helps our members grow as leaders, ambassadors, and change agents who live out our mission every day: to Engage, Assist, and Empower our nation’s heroes to #GetOffTheCouch.
Each course integrates post-traumatic growth (PTG) principles, leadership skills, and program-specific knowledge on Outdoor Adventures, Warrior PATHH, Disaster Response, and community engagement. Course 4 built on these foundations with advanced modules in organizational strategy, peer-to-peer mentorship, and servant leadership.
Graduates emerged ready to help guide others through transformation, embodying the belief that “Good things can happen after bad things.”
📋 Apply for Sheep Dog University
Interested in becoming part of the next SDU class? Applications are now open for upcoming sessions. Whether you’re an SDIA leader, Ambassador, or community volunteer, SDU offers the training and tools you need to grow your impact and represent SDIA’s mission at the highest level.
👉 Apply today: sheepdogia.org/sheep-dog-university
🧡 Thanksgiving Outreach: Serve Those Who Serve
As we celebrate our SDU graduates, we’re also stepping into one of our busiest seasons of service. This month, SDIA Headquarters NWA team members are preparing Thanksgiving Outreach events, delivering meals, supplies, and support to local NWA military, veterans, and first responders.
Volunteer or donate locally to help us reach more Sheep Dogs this holiday season.
➡️ Learn More about Thanksgiving Outreach →
🦃 Turkey Trot for Heroes – Run from Anywhere!
The 18th Annual Turkey Trot for Heroes 5K is almost here! Join us Thanksgiving morning in Northwest Arkansas — or participate virtually from anywhere in the country.
Whether you run, walk, or simply cheer from home, your participation directly supports SDIA’s life-changing programs:
- Warrior PATHH – Peer-led post-traumatic growth training for veterans and first responders.
- Outdoor Adventures – Challenging experiences that reignite camaraderie and purpose.
- Disaster Response Missions – Continued service through helping communities recover.
Every registration helps more Sheep Dogs #GetOffTheCouch and rediscover their strength.
➡️ Register Now: sheepdogia.org/turkeytrot
Volunteer opportunities:
💗 Shop to Support: Gear Up, Give Back
Looking for a meaningful way to give this season? Visit the Sheep Dog Shop to grab limited-edition gear and gifts that give back.
- 🎀 Breast Cancer Awareness Pink Shirt – Wear your support proudly.
- 🏕 Adventure Gear Sale – Stock up and support the mission.
Every purchase helps fund Warrior PATHH, Heroes Ranch maintenance, and the new HomeFront program for Sheep Dog spouses and partners.
💸 Donate | Partner | Serve
Can’t make it to an event but still want to help?
- 💰 Donate – Your gift fuels SDIA’s programs nationwide.
- 🤝 Partner – Join as a sponsor or corporate supporter.
- 🧤 Serve – Volunteer with your local SDIA Team or at Heroes Ranch.
🌟 Congratulations, SDU Course 4 Graduates!
Every graduate represents a ripple of growth across our organization and beyond. As we celebrate your achievement, we look forward to seeing the impact you’ll make in your communities, your families, and your continued service.
Together, we serve. Together, we grow.
