UMGC Rallies for Veterans in Annual FUNd Run

When UMGC student Sharon Grassi arrived at this year's Pep Rally, she didn't just bring her school spirit-she brought an experience. Through her nonprofit, Co-Op Survival, Grassi led FUNd Run participants in creating paracord dog leashes for veterans, transforming the event into a space for reflection, conversation, and connection.

"We ask people to come in and make a dog leash to connect veterans with other people within their community and help them feel like they fit in," Grassi explained. "When people use both hands, bilateral brain stimulation increases oxygen to the brain and helps reduce the fight-or-flight stress response. It helps people calm their mind and just connect."

The leash carries a story. Grassi's son, a veteran, crafted his first paracord leash while recovering at Walter Reed for his service dog. What began as a quiet, therapeutic bonding moment between a veteran and caregiver evolved into a powerful tool for healing and community building.

Now, through Co-Op Survival, Grassi brings that same experience to others-students, caregivers, staff, alumni, and veterans-inviting them to sit side-by-side, weaving strands of cord and conversation. Each leash represents more than a finished craft; it's a tangible reminder that support isn't just an abstract idea. It's something built-together, one connection at a time.