ADAMS COUNTY, Pa. — When FOX43 first introduced you to Evelyn in 2021, she was shy, didn't speak and her family was on the search for an autism support service dog.
Now three years later, the 7-year-old is full of life, constantly talking and always has her Goldendoodle, Nikon, right by her side.
"Evelyn has a very unique sensory processing disorder where she likes compression," said her mother, Victoria Baumgardner. "Nikon can provide that compression without her being overstimulated by human touch."
Over the course of three months, their good neighbors helped them raise more than $20,000 through lemonade stands, bake sales and work fundraisers.
"The community has been absolutely amazing," said Baumgardner. "There's no way we would've been able to complete this project without them."
After the family secured the funding, Evelyn was put on a waitlist for two years. Then, this past February, she was connected with Nikon through 4 Paws for Ability, a service dog connecter based in Ohio.
"For Nikon and Evelyn, it was very evident quickly that they were going to be each other's best friends," said client services director Taylor Tolle.
Since then, Nikon has improved Evelyn’s life immensely by giving her added support.
"She is more productive throughout the day," said Baumgardner. "We've had better schooling options, better grades."
And Nikon was specifically trained to help Evelyn in areas where she struggles.
"It only takes her seven minutes to go to sleep, and originally it took her close to two hours," said Baumgardner.
"My favorite thing is a command called nuzzle," said Evelyn. "It makes me happy."
Nikon is also a tracking service dog, which brings the family added safety and peace of mind.
"She would leave the house without telling anyone," said Baumgardner. "So Nikon is equipped to smell, to sense her and to go find his girl."
Evelyn's mom says seeing the transformation in her daughter since Nikon arrived has been life changing for the entire family.
She says it wouldn't be possible without her community.
"It really does take a village to raise a family, and we definitely have a really great one," said Baumgardner.