Michael "Chappy" Chappell
Michael "Chappy" Chappell is a U.S. Navy combat veteran, conservation leader, and lifelong advocate for the healing power of purpose, service, and the outdoors. As Director of Veteran Engagement & Trail Stewardship for the Arizona Trail Association, he has helped hundreds of veterans and their families rediscover community, resilience, and purpose through trail stewardship across Arizona. He also serves as Senior Advisor for Arizona with Veterans for Public Lands and is a member of the Board of Directors for Friends of Ironwood Forest.
His passion for working with dogs began long before his military service. Growing up, Chappy's father instilled in him the belief that every dog deserves patient training, consistency, and a meaningful role within the family. Those early lessons shaped a lifelong respect for the remarkable bond between humans and canines—a relationship built on trust, communication, and unconditional loyalty.
Today, that bond continues through Midas, his trail companion and emotional support dog, who has shared countless miles across Arizona's deserts, mountains, and forests. Whether on the Arizona Trail or around the campfire after a long day of service, Midas serves as a daily reminder that healing often comes on four legs.
As a member of the Soldier's Best Friend Board of Directors, Chappy serves on both the Programming and Marketing Committees, where he is committed to expanding opportunities for graduates and their canine partners long after they complete the organization's training program. His vision is to create meaningful ways for veteran-dog teams to stay connected through outdoor recreation, volunteer service, community events, leadership development, and continued fellowship—ensuring that every graduate remains part of a supportive community where both veterans and their trusted companions can continue to thrive together.
Inspired by his philosophy of Mission Therapy—the belief that continued service is one of the most powerful paths to healing—Chappy is dedicated to helping veterans and their dogs discover a renewed sense of purpose through service, adventure, and community.
