Welcome.
The Koda Project was founded on the belief that connection heals. Led by Stacey Coventry, a longtime Maine resident and animal-assisted therapy professional, the project brings intention, structure, and heart to programs that strengthen well-being through the human–animal bond. With more than a decade of experience partnering with schools, hospitals, and communities, Stacey’s work centers on building ethical, sustainable initiatives that foster kindness, resilience, and meaningful connection.
My Story
I’m Stacey Coventry, the founder of The Koda Project. I’m a New England native and have proudly called Maine home for the past 20 years. My work is rooted in a deep belief that connection—especially through the human–animal bond—has the power to build community, support healing, and create spaces where people feel seen, supported, and valued.
For more than a decade, I’ve worked as a therapy dog handler, evaluator, educator, and program consultant, helping schools, hospitals, and nonprofit organizations thoughtfully integrate animal-assisted therapy into their programming. I approach this work with intention and structure, supporting organizations in developing clear policies, strengthening risk management practices, and creating ethical, sustainable programs that honor both people and animals.
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and Sociology from Syracuse University, a Master’s degree in Business and Nonprofit Management from Husson University, and a Certificate in Animal-Assisted Therapy. In addition to my consulting and program development work, I serve as the Community Partner Lead for Pet Partners of Eastern Maine, supporting the training, mentorship, and growth of therapy dog teams in collaboration with the national Pet Partners organization.
Animals have been central to my journey. I’ve partnered with four therapy dogs over the years, each shaping my path in meaningful ways. Koda, in particular, found deep joy and purpose in this work and became the heart behind many local initiatives—including campus stress-relief programs, youth bereavement support, and Code Koda, a hospital-based wellness initiative.
Through The Koda Project, I continue to build bridges between healthcare, education, and community—using compassion, professionalism, and the human–animal bond to help create spaces where kindness, resilience, and connection can thrive.
Koda's Journey
The Koda Project is named for Koda, a therapy dog whose steady presence and intuitive calm continue to shape the work at the heart of the organization.
At 15 years old, Koda remains a living example of what connection, consistency, and compassion can create over time. His work shows that healing does not always come from intervention or instruction, but often from presence—from simply being there in a way that allows others to feel safe, seen, and supported.
In hospitals, schools, libraries, and community spaces, Koda’s presence helps soften fear, reduce anxiety, and open pathways for connection. Children read to him without fear of judgment. Patients find moments of calm in stressful clinical settings. Educators and staff experience brief but meaningful pauses that restore focus and emotional balance.
Through these moments, it becomes clear that Koda is more than a therapy dog. He is a bridge—between stress and calm, isolation and connection, struggle and kindness.
That understanding gives rise to Fetch Me Kindness: Koda’s Magical Gift. The children’s book is inspired by real experiences witnessed during Koda’s therapy work. It translates moments of connection into story, giving young readers language for empathy, courage, and emotional awareness. Through Fetch Me Kindness, Koda’s impact extends beyond a single visit and continues in classrooms, libraries, and homes—supporting literacy and social-emotional learning.
Koda’s ongoing work informs the foundation of The Koda Project. His legacy is not rooted in the past, but actively guides the present—shaping how therapy dog programs are designed to be ethical, intentional, and sustainable. The work honors both the human and the animal, recognizing that meaningful impact comes from structure, care, and respect.
Koda’s legacy is living.
It continues to grow—one connection at a time.
Contact
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.
203.518.2277