About Mitch/Bryce Christiansen

Born in Indiana and raised in Utah, Mitch has always been driven by a deep sense of service and compassion. Growing up in a family where serving others was a way of life, Mitch’s parents instilled in their three sons the importance of giving back. Whether it was shoveling snow for the entire neighborhood or lending a helping hand wherever needed, Mitch learned early on the value of community and selflessness.

After graduating high school, Mitch dedicated two years to serving a mission for his church before pursuing higher education. Ten years later, he proudly earned a degree in Business Management with a focus on call center operations. Along the way, Mitch lent his time and talents to various nonprofit organizations, paving the way for his passion for helping others. These experiences ultimately led him to establish Service Dog Support and Training Solutions, which would later evolve into Service Paws.

The inspiration behind Service Paws began with a deeply personal experience. When Mitch’s wife, Christi, needed a service dog, they discovered that resources in Utah were scarce, particularly for non-veterans. Determined to find a solution, the couple immersed themselves in research and learned they could train a service dog themselves. Their journey led them to connect with a well-respected author in the field, who shared her insights and encouragement. While she pursued other opportunities, Mitch and Christi were undeterred and partnered with local trainers who believed in their vision. Together, they laid the foundation for what would become a trusted resource for countless individuals seeking support through service dogs.

Key Goals for the Next 90 Days
As we continue to grow, one of our primary objectives is to implement a robust CRM system. This initiative is already underway, and we’re immensely grateful to Emily Lemol Shetterly for her invaluable guidance and support in making this happen.

What Makes Service Paws Special?
One of the most rewarding aspects of working here is witnessing the transformative impact our work has on people’s lives. Through our 4 Paws Philosophy—Connections, Education, Support, and Independence—we empower individuals to live fuller, more independent lives with the assistance of a service dog.

Our values are rooted in compassion, inclusivity, and a commitment to making a tangible difference. We strive to be more than just a training organization; we are a community dedicated to fostering hope and independence for those we serve.

The Inspiration Behind Service Paws
When we first realized how limited service dog resources were, it became clear that something needed to change. I felt compelled to create an organization that could bridge this gap and offer others the chance to benefit from the resources we’ve been able to build.

There have certainly been challenges along the way, and there were moments when I questioned whether to continue. But every time I meet someone whose life has been transformed by our program, it reignites my passion and reminds me why we started this journey. Knowing that our work has helped individuals gain independence, confidence, and hope has been the greatest reward.