San Martin-based nonprofit has helped 496 clients and rescued more than 396 dogs

Photo courtesy Operation Freedom Paws
Mary Cortani receives her 2022 Woman of the Year honor from Justin Tran, the district representative in Monterey County for the office of State Sen. John Laird.

By Robert Airoldi

Mary Cortani, founder of Operation Freedom Paws, was named the 2022 District 17 Woman of the Year by California State Senator John Laird (D-Monterey).

After serving in the U.S. Army, Cortani became a certified Army Master of Canine Education. After leaving the service, she worked in information technology until 2007, all the while training dogs.

That same year she began participating in K9 search and rescue operations. In 2010, she started Operation Freedom Paws, a nonprofit organization that matches dogs to clients with individual needs such as veterans, first responders, children, and those with physical, neurological, and psychological disabilities, training them to become a certified service dog team.

“Mary’s work has touched numerous lives not only in the 17th District, but across California,” Laird said. “Her unique program helps to prepare clients for more than a year at no cost to the individual. We know the average service dog can run anywhere from $10,000 to $40,000 out of pocket, which puts this vital tool out of reach for many working class individuals who may need a service animal. What Mary and Operation Freedom Paws have accomplished is a true testament of her commitment and passion to see the community succeed.”

Since its opening in January of 2010, Operation Freedom Paws has helped 496 clients, including their 2,195 family members, as well as rescuing more than 396 dogs.

Mary resides in South Santa Clara County and has worked with families in every county of the 17th Senate District.

“It’s an honor to receive this recognition from Sen. John Laird and his team that brings attention to the work we do at Operation Freedom Paws,” Cortani said. “I hope it drives more awareness to the critical issues our veterans, first responders and other individuals with disabilities face every single day and serves as a catalyst for action. We need the support of our businesses and communities-at-large to continue our mission to provide our clients and their families with the important resources they need to heal.”

Each year, in honor of Women’s History Month, nearly every California legislator chooses a woman in their district to honor in collaboration with the California Legislative Women’s Caucus.

Cortani was named a CNN Hero in 2012, Gilroy Chamber of Commerce 2021 Nonprofit Spice of Life winner, and KSBW National Jefferson Award Winner among other accolades.