Helping Paws is a volunteer-based nonprofit organization whose mission is to further the independence of people with physical disabilities (other than blindness or deafness) through the use of service dogs.  Helping Paws service dogs promote self-sufficiency and empower people with physical disabilities.  The dogs are not just companions, they are hardworking partners that allow many of our graduates to live more free, unconstrained lives both at home and in public.  The dogs not only help with daily living tasks but also give added confidence and renewed self-esteem.  The friendship and companionship of a Helping Paws service dog is priceless.  In 2009, St MinneSomePlace donated $2,000.00 to Helping Paws.