About Us
Helping Veterans & Rescue Animals one yoga class at a time.
Vets & Pets Yoga is a 501c3 nonprofit organization
Founded in 2023 in Phoenix Arizona.
Our Story
Vets & Pets Yoga is a 501 (c)(3)nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of veterans and their families through the healing practices of yoga and the life-changing companionship of emotional support animals. Our mission is rooted in the belief that wellness is not one-size-fits-all—and that mind-body connection, emotional support, and community play essential roles in the healing journey.
We offer free, trauma-informed yoga classes specifically designed for veterans and their spouses or partners, creating a safe and inclusive space to move, breathe, and reconnect. At the same time, we raise awareness and support for our Emotional Support Animal (ESA) program, which pairs veterans with carefully selected rescue animals at no cost. These animals not only provide comfort and stability but also deepen the sense of purpose and connection many veterans seek after their service.
Driven by volunteers and led by a passionate team of caregivers, veterans and animal advocates, Vets & Pets Yoga is more than a wellness program—it’s a growing community grounded in mutual care, empowerment, and compassion. We partner with local rescues, nonprofits, and veteran support networks to extend our reach and impact, always with the aim of honoring those who have served by helping them access the tools, relationships, and resources they need to thrive.
Together, we are rewriting the story of healing—one breath, one bond, and one brave heart at a time.
Meet Our Board
Founder & President
Angie Polynin
Angie is a dedicated 200 RYT & founder of Vets and Pets Yoga, a nonprofit focused on bringing the healing benefits of yoga to veterans. After experiencing yoga's transformative effects on her own life while managing an autoimmune disease. She felt inspired to share its benefits with others. Angie is on a mission to build a supportive community where veterans can find peace, strength, and connection through yoga. She has recently completed her Mindful Resilience Training through the Veterans Yoga Project, which deepened her knowledge for sharing yoga to the veteran community.
Vice President
Joseph Kozak
Joseph Kozak is an Army U.S. military combat veteran with a background in security operations and a lifelong passion for animal welfare. With years of experience in leadership, crisis management, and community safety, Joe brings a calm, dependable presence to every role he takes on. Now a dedicated member of Vets & Pets Yoga, he combines his commitment to service with his love for animals by supporting emotional support animal placements and veteran outreach. Joe is deeply invested in helping fellow veterans find healing and connection through trusted companionship—both human and canine.
Member
Dr Karlee Heffner
Dr. Karlee Heffner is a dedicated supporter of Vets & Pets Yoga, a naturopathic physician, passionate animal advocate, and proud mother. With a deep understanding of the connection between physical and emotional wellness, Karlee brings both professional expertise and heartfelt compassion to the organization’s mission. As a member and donor, she actively supports our wellness initiatives, often joined by her children who enthusiastically lend a hand at events. Whether she’s helping at a yoga class or fostering community spirit, Karlee leads by example—showing how families can serve, heal, and grow together.