Real impact. Right here in our backyard.
At Socksmith, we believe in walking the walk—especially when it leads to lasting, local impact. That’s why we’re proud to partner with UnChained, a remarkable nonprofit based in Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties. Through their youth dog training program, UnChained is helping young people build confidence, compassion, and communication skills—while giving shelter dogs a second chance.
What's Inside
Why We Partnered With UnChained: A Youth Dog Training Program That Works
UnChained pairs youth—often facing challenges like incarceration, trauma, or instability—with shelter dogs in need of behavioral training. Together, they participate in a 12-week curriculum that teaches patience, leadership, and empathy through positive-reinforcement dog training.
The results? Transformational:
540+ youth served through the program
230+ shelter dogs have graduated
5 program sites across Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties
85–90% adoption rate within 30 days of graduation
Where It Happens
UnChained brings its youth dog training program to where it’s needed most, offering hands-on support in:
Rancho Cielo Youth Campus – Salinas, CA
Monterey County Juvenile Hall – Salinas, CA
Monterey County Youth Center – Salinas, CA
Santa Cruz County Juvenile Hall – Felton, CA
Delta High School – Aptos, CA
Each site is more than just a location—it’s a space for transformation. And sometimes, that transformation is best understood through the story of one incredible dog.
Bandit the Husky: From Shelter Dog to Star Student
Bandit is a one-eyed Husky mix who’s been through a lot—and has become an unexpected veteran of UnChained’s youth dog training program. He’s completed three cycles across Juvenile Hall, Rancho Cielo, and Delta High, each time pairing with a different youth trainer.
Every trainer came with a different story. So did Bandit. But together, they showed up—building trust, learning consistency, and forming a routine grounded in mutual respect.
Bandit’s presence brought a sense of calm and fun to his training partners, while they helped him rediscover stability and safety. Through small, steady steps—walks, training cues, quiet moments—they built something that stuck.
These weren’t one-off sessions. They were real connections—with lasting impact, for both the youth and the dog.
Watch Bandit’s journey come to life
Shop Socks That Give Back
How Your Sock Purchase Helps
Every time you shop from our Endangered Species collection, 1% of proceeds goes directly to one of our nonprofit partners—including UnChained. That means your favorite animal-themed socks don’t just look good—they do good.
By supporting UnChained’s youth dog training program, you’re helping fund supplies, training tools, and expansion into more communities.
Want to Learn More?
We encourage you to visit livingunchained.org to dive deeper into their mission, meet some of the graduates (both human and canine), or make a direct donation.
Because sometimes, the smallest gestures—like a walk, a word, or even a pair of socks—can lead to big change.
Your Questions Answered
How does my purchase support UnChained?
When you buy from our Endangered Species Collection, 1% of each sale is donated to nonprofit partners like UnChained. These funds help support their youth dog training programs across Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties.
Can I choose which nonprofit my purchase supports?
Not at this time. We rotate donations across our nonprofit partners to ensure each organization receives meaningful support—but rest assured, every pair you purchase makes a difference.
Where is UnChained located?
UnChained operates in five program sites across Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties, including Rancho Cielo Youth Campus, Monterey County Juvenile Hall, and Delta High School in Aptos.
What inspired Socksmith to partner with UnChained?
We’re always looking to support nonprofits making a real difference—and UnChained’s mission deeply resonated with our founders. Their work creates second chances not just for dogs, but for youth who need support and purpose. It’s a beautiful example of compassion in action.
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