Canine Partners of the Rockies
In this episode of Working Like Dogs on Pet Life Radio, Marcie and her co-host and service dog Fenway sit down with Kyle Lephart, Executive Director, and Miki Brewington, Client Services Manager, from Canine Partners of the Rockies Kyle and Miki share how their organization is transforming lives through the placement of expertly trained service dogs and facility dogs across Colorado. They also dive into their innovative community-based programs where these incredible dogs serve in schools, healthcare settings, and other places where their presence brings comfort, connection, and confidence. It’s a heartwarming and inspiring conversation that showcases the power of purpose-bred dogs and the humans who love and train them.
Listen to Episode #198 Now:
BIO:
Kyle Lephart – Executive Director, Canine Partners of the Rockies
Kyle Lephart serves as the Executive Director of Canine Partners of the Rockies, a respected Assistance Dogs International-accredited organization dedicated to training and placing service dogs with individuals with disabilities and facility dogs that enhance the services already provided in various professional settings. His journey with animals began in high school at a small veterinary clinic in Wisconsin, sparking a lifelong passion for animals and service.
Kyle entered the world of assistance dogs in 2008 with Assistance Dogs of the West in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Over the years, he has worn many hats in the field—starting as a program assistant and rising through the ranks to become Director of Operations, Chief Financial Officer, and now Executive Director at Canine Partners of the Rockies. He has also contributed as a dedicated volunteer puppy raiser, gaining a well-rounded perspective that deeply informs his leadership. His comprehensive experience gives him a rare insight into the needs of clients, volunteers, staff, and the dogs themselves—ensuring every voice in the organization is heard and respected.
Since joining Canine Partners of the Rockies in 2023, Kyle has led transformative growth. Under his leadership, the organization has tripled its budget, more than doubled the number of service dogs in training, increased successful client placements, and launched numerous community outreach initiatives that have introduced thousands of Coloradans to the life-changing power of service dogs.
Kyle is deeply committed to his community. He has participated in several philanthropic and leadership programs, including the NexGen Philanthropic Group and Emerging Social Sector Leaders at the Santa Fe Community Foundation, as well as the Generation Now cohort at the Rose Community Foundation. Currently, he serves as a commissioner on both the Denver Mayor’s Commission for People with Disabilities and the Commission for Nonprofit Engagement. He also volunteers with organizations such as Mile High United Way and the Rotary Club of Aurora.
Outside of his professional life, Kyle enjoys traveling, exploring new restaurants and coffee shops, and visiting Colorado’s scenic mountain towns with his partner, Shannon, and their dog, DaVinci. A former mandolin player, he also hopes to find time to rekindle that creative outlet in the near future.
Miki Brewington is the Client Services Manager for Canine Partners of the Rockies, where she plays a vital role in supporting individuals through every step of their journey with a service or facility dog. From guiding applicants through the initial process to helping matched teams build and maintain strong partnerships, Miki ensures that each placement is successful and supported long-term. She also volunteers as a puppy sitter for service dogs in training, giving her a hands-on perspective of the organization’s mission.
Miki holds a B.A. in Psychology with an emphasis in Public Health and Medicine from the University of Arkansas. Her previous experience in mental health administration and as a flight attendant helped her develop strong communication and problem-solving skills, qualities she now uses daily to support Canine Partners' clients and dogs. Originally from Arkansas, Miki now lives in Colorado with her partner, Zac, and enjoys hiking, camping, and soaking up the sunshine with her dogs and adventure cat whenever she can.
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