CNN’s Hero of the Year is healing hearts and saving dogs, KNEWS

Stephen Knight, the founder of Dogs Matter, was celebrated as CNN’s Hero of the Year for 2024, recognized for his heartfelt mission of fostering dogs while their owners focus on overcoming addiction. His nonprofit provides a crucial safety net for both humans and their pets, offering second chances to those in recovery and saving countless furry companions from uncertain fates.

“This means everything,” Knight shared during the ceremony. “I represent the recovery community and the dog rescue community. This recognition will help us take our mission to the next level.”

A Journey of redemption and compassion
Knight’s story is one of resilience. In 2011, at 51 years old, he had hit rock bottom due to meth addiction, losing his home, family, and health. Living out of his car and battling HIV, he entered rehab at his mother’s urging. It was a pivotal step in his recovery, but his life took a transformative turn when a friend showed up with her dog, Jayde, in despair. Unable to care for Jayde due to her own struggles, she intended to surrender her beloved pet.

“I looked at Jayde, and it was one of the most spiritual moments of my life,” Knight recalled. “We needed each other.”

Realizing that many people delay addiction treatment because they have no safe place for their pets, Knight decided to act. Partnering with local animal rescues, he educated himself on foster care protocols and launched his nonprofit.

Over 1,200 dogs helped
Since becoming a registered nonprofit in 2015, Dogs Matter has supported over 1,200 dogs and their owners. The organization ensures pets are cared for while owners focus on recovery, with contracts that encourage participants to stick to their plans and a follow-up program to support long-term success.

Now approaching 14 years of sobriety, Knight lives with his three dogs—Jayde, Piper, and Lady—and dreams of expanding Dogs Matter into a national program. “One act of kindness led to this. Now, 1,200 dogs later, it feels like we’re just getting started,” Knight said.

As part of his recognition, Knight will receive $100,000 to expand his work, along with additional funding and mentorship opportunities provided by the Elevate Prize Foundation.

A night of inspiration
The awards broadcast was a celebration of selflessness, featuring appearances by stars like Bradley Cooper, Oprah Winfrey, and Misty Copeland. Danai Gurira honored the Young Wonders of the year, while Kelly Ripa saluted the heroes.

Special recognition was also given to Michael J. Fox, who received the CNN Heroes Legacy Award for his work in advancing Parkinson’s research through the Michael J. Fox Foundation, which has raised over $2 billion.

Teen activists Brooke and Breanna Bennett were celebrated as Young Wonders for their efforts to end period poverty through their nonprofit, Women in Training, Inc., which provides free menstrual products and mentorship to girls and nonbinary youth.

Continuing to make a difference
For Knight, this recognition underscores the importance of his mission. “This award is for Jayde,” he said. “She inspired it all. With every dog we help, we honor that bond—and it’s only the beginning.”

Through his work, Stephen Knight proves that a simple act of kindness can ripple outward, changing lives and creating a brighter future for all.