Boulder, CO — Return to Work Inc. (R2W), a nonprofit focused on helping disabled veterans and underserved individuals reenter the workforce, is grappling with a sudden government funding freeze that has left the organization with staffing issues. The freeze comes on the heels of a highly successful summer internship program that brought together young professionals, seasoned volunteers, and a mission-driven leadership team. 

 

Founded by Rob Brazell, R2W has long operated at the intersection of compassion and innovation. This summer, the organization hosted a cohort of STEM interns who contributed to grant writing, business intelligence development, and digital outreach. The program ended on August 15, but its impact continues to resonate. 

 

“We have achieved a lot and built something that will run on autopilot,” said one team member in a farewell message shared internally. “It’s always the first few new projects that are the most challenging, so you have all played a critical role in the outrageous success that is to come.” 

 

The message, which reflected both gratitude and concern, praised the interns for their professionalism and highlighted Brazell’s sacrifices to keep the program running. According to internal sources, much of the funding for the summer came directly from Brazell’s pocket. 

 

“He put his health and money on the line so that he could take care of us,” the message continued. “A lot of the money from this summer came from his pockets, and that’s unacceptable to me.” 

Brazell’s leadership style has earned admiration from staff and volunteers alike. Known for his dedication to the mission and his willingness to mentor without expectation, Brazell has cultivated a culture of loyalty and purpose. Volunteers such as Gayleen Pratt, Ryan Chester, and Bob Bloxam — all respected professionals — continue to support R2W’s work, underscoring the organization’s credibility and reach. 

 

The funding freeze has disrupted plans to scale operations and secure long-term sustainability. Yet, the team remains optimistic. Systems built during the summer are expected to continue functioning, and the relationships formed are likely to yield future opportunities. 

“I’m taking today to feel sad about everything that has been lost by my failure to secure funding,” the team member wrote. “Tomorrow I’m getting up off the mat and fighting like I have never fought before.” 

 

The broader context of the freeze reflects growing concerns about the labor market and the pace of technological change. As one staff member noted, “Government policy is not within light-years of even alleviating some of the direst consequences” of these shifts. 

Despite the challenges, R2W’s mission endures. The organization continues to advocate for meaningful employment, mentorship, and community reintegration — values that remain central to its work. 

📌 Support the mission: 

• Volunteer: www.return2work.org/volunteer 

• Sponsor a program: www.return2work.org/sponsor 

• Learn more: www.return2work.org/about 

• Donate: www.return2work.org/donate 

At the heart of Gallica Scottish Terriers is a woman whose life has been transformed by a breed known for its bold spirit and unwavering loyalty. Charlie Gann, owner of Gallica Scottish Terriers and a proud member of the Scottish Terrier Club of Greater Denver, has been a cornerstone of the Scottie community since 2000. Alongside her husband, Bob Gann, Charlie has dedicated over two decades to nurturing, showing, and celebrating these remarkable dogs. 

“From the time we acquired our first Scottie in 2000, we had gone full on in everything Scottish Terrier.” 

Charlie’s journey began with a single Scottish Terrier—and from that moment, she and Bob dove headfirst into everything Scottie-related. Their passion has taken them across the U.S., and even to the UK, where Charlie qualified to show at the prestigious Crufts Dog Show in 2022. Her home-bred wheaten-colored girl, Sorcha (CH. Gallica’s Edelweiss), won Best of Breed at the national specialty—an honor not seen for a wheaten Scottie since 1986. 

“It was a great honor. The last time a wheaten-colored Scottish Terrier won the national was in 1986.” 

Charlie’s involvement with the Scottish Terrier Club of Greater Denver spans 18 years, during which she has served as President, Vice President, Newsletter Editor, and Board Member. Bob, equally committed, has been the club’s webmaster for 15 years and is also an AKC Earthdog Judge, certified to judge at all levels across the U.S. and Canada. 

“Bob has judged all over the US and Canada. He’s passed all qualifications to judge at every Earthdog level.” 

Beyond conformation events, the Ganns are active in AKC Scent Work, Barn Hunts, and are now exploring AKC Tracking. Charlie also contributes nationally, having served on the board of the Scottish Terrier Club of America for five years and currently holding committee positions. 

Their love for Scotties extends to the next generation. Charlie affectionately refers to Bilbo and Olive as her “grand-Scotties.” These energetic pups are descendants of her champion Sorcha, through her wheaten male Lars’ son, Gallica’s Sea Dragon. Bilbo is cherished by Rob, and Olive by Annel Henderson—both deeply involved with R2W. 

“Bilbo and Olive are fun-loving, energetic, and very lucky Scotties to be loved by Rob and Annel.” 

Charlie’s connection to Project: Return To Work (R2W) has been a meaningful one. “After being introduced to Rob, it has been wonderful to witness his love for our military members and his endless dedication to helping them,” she says. The opportunity to bring dogs into the fold of R2W’s mission has added a joyful and healing dimension to the work. 

“It’s a wonderful opportunity to get together with the workers of R2W and have dogs be a part of it!” 

Charlie Gann’s story is one of devotion—to her dogs, her community, and the people she’s met along the way. Through Gallica Scottish Terriers and her work with R2W, she continues to inspire others with her warmth, expertise, and the enduring charm of the Scottish Terrier. 

 

By Nathan Megersa, STEM Intern 

In a heartfelt interview on Comcast Newsmakers over 16 years ago, Rob Brazell, founder of Project: Return To Work Inc. (R2W), shared the story of an organization built on hope, resilience, and the belief that everyone deserves a second chance. Founded in 1998, R2W was created to help veterans and disabled citizens overcome barriers and return to the workforce with confidence and dignity. 

Rob outlined R2W’s innovative model—one that integrates vocational, physical, and therapeutic rehabilitation to support job seekers holistically. It wasn’t just about employment; it was about restoring purpose and independence. He also issued a powerful call to action, urging employers across industries to partner with R2W and become part of a movement that transforms lives. 

Today, that mission is not only alive—it’s thriving. 

Over the past two decades, R2W has helped thousands of individuals find meaningful employment through personalized support, community engagement, and strategic partnerships. The organization continues to serve as a trusted bridge between untapped talent and inclusive employers, offering a comprehensive suite of services designed to meet the unique needs of each job seeker. 

Looking ahead, R2W is setting its sights even higher. The goal: to serve one million clients over the next decade. This ambitious vision is fueled by powerful collaborations with organizations like StaffCV and Microsoft, whose technologies and platforms have propelled R2W’s reach and impact. These partnerships enable R2W to deliver cutting-edge tools, streamline job matching, and provide the best possible support to those seeking employment. 

But the journey is far from over. 

R2W is actively seeking new volunteers, job seekers, and employers to join its mission. Whether you’re looking to give back, find your path forward, or hire exceptional talent, R2W is here to help you take that next step. 

From its founding in 1998 to its future vision, R2W remains a beacon of hope, empowerment, and opportunity. Join us in shaping the next chapter.

By Nathan Mergusa, STEM Intern