The Companion - Canine Companions for Independence

The Companion
Summer 2014, issue eighteen Northeast Edition
Helping Victims Find
Words for the Unspeakable
N
ot long ago in the Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office,
fear rendered a victim of domestic violence incapable of testifying
in court. Jane (not her real name) found it difficult in the best
circumstances to speak of the unspeakable things that had happened to
her. Sharing her painful story before a courtroom of strangers felt
completely impossible. Law enforcement was worried. Although this
case was powerful, without Jane’s testimony, it was unlikely justice
could be served.
That’s when Canine Companions Facility Dog Malvern and his
handler Donna were called in to help. “Unfortunately, victims often
experience additional trauma when they are required to walk into
a courtroom full of strangers and testify in excruciating detail
about what happened to them,” explains Donna. “Malvern helps
lessen their trauma.”
Donna brought Malvern into the briefing room with
Jane. He moved toward Jane, seated himself beside her,
and gently placed his paw on her knee. When Jane
looked into his deep eyes, an unexplainable sense of
security washed over her. And when Jane learned
Malvern would be permitted to lie at her feet in the
witness box as she gave testimony, she began to believe
she might find the courage to speak up about the
violence she had suffered.
Continued on page 3
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Our Community’s Impact
Recently we received an unsolicited testimonial from Bari, a
Often we hear from new supporters that they learned
graduate who is currently matched with her fourth service
about Canine Companions from someone with one of our dogs.
dog from Canine Companions, Axel. In Bari’s letter,
Whether a puppy raiser or graduate, the reach
she explained how her Canine Companions
these people and their Canine Companions
assistance dogs have helped her live inde-
dogs have in their communities cannot be
pendently for 27 years and she thanked the
understated. And now we can include
community that made it possible.
the adopters of our released dogs as a
As the expression says, “it takes a
part of that impact too! Learn about
village to raise a child” and it is no dif-
the incredible work our released
ferent with our puppies. There are the
dogs and their adopters are doing
puppy raisers who provide the ultimate
on page four.
gift of unselfish love to raise a puppy and
As our community continues to
give it back, the volunteer breeder caretak-
grow, we thank all of our supporters
ers who welcome each litter of puppies into
for their part in providing Exceptional
the world to begin early socialization, and the
professional instructors and other staff who care for
Dogs for Exceptional People.®
Sincerely,
the dogs while they are being trained at a Canine Companions
training center. Include our donors and other supporters, and
we have a network of over 50,000 people making it possible
to provide our highly trained assistance dogs free of charge.
Anne Gittinger
Chair, Canine Companions
National Board
Corey Hudson
CEO, Canine Companions
Canine Companions and PetSmart for Patriots Come to Capitol Hill
Canine Companions and PetSmart came to Capitol Hill in May
for a press conference with veterans and members of Congress
to promote awareness of the benefits of assistance dogs for
veterans. PetSmart for Patriots, a joint endeavor between
PetSmart and Canine Companions for Independence, provides
assistance dogs to military veterans with disabilities. Speakers
and attendees included Representatives David Schweikert (AZ06); Ann Kirkpatrick (AZ-01); Charlie Dent (PA-15); Steve
Stivers (OH-15); Canine Companions graduate David Rogers
and assistance dog Jersey; David Lenhardt, president and
chief executive officer of PetSmart; and Corey Hudson, chief
executive officer of Canine Companions.
Wounded veteran Captain James Van Thach and PetSmart’s
David Lenhardt also helped spread the word on assistance dogs
since 2008. Many of the dogs have been placed with men and
for veterans with an appearance on the TODAY show. “For
women who served in Iraq and Afghanistan and returned with
veterans coming back from unbelievably stressful situations,
spinal cord injuries, limb amputations and deafness. Wounded
these dogs make an impact,” said Lenhardt. “This is our way
veterans can now visit any of the 1,250 PetSmart stores across
of saying thank you.”
the country and receive information about Canine Companions
Since 1992, Canine Companions has placed 110 dogs assist-
assistance dogs.
ing military veterans, with the number of dogs placed tripling
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Cover Story cont…
Jane is one of the many
victims who Donna and
Malvern help every day. This
dedicated facility dog team
works full-time assisting
It All Starts
With a Puppy…
with child and adult victims
of sex crimes and domestic
violence.
Malvern’s training from
Canine Companions makes
and Sometimes
a College Student
him ideal for his specialized
role. He is able to settle
himself comfortably in the
confines of a witness box and
support a victim until Donna
gives him permission to
leave. This skill is important
Adam Kline with Tulane University President Scott
Cowen and Canine Companions puppy Kipper.
C
anine Companions volunteer puppy
raisers represent a diverse group of
people from all backgrounds and
experiences, and now there are a growing
number of college students raising puppies.
Adam Kline and Jen Weisman are two such
students.
Adam, a public health and pre-med major,
attends Tulane University in New Orleans and
takes his Canine Companions puppy Kipper
III nearly everywhere he goes to socialize and
prepare Kipper for life as an assistance dog.
“Tulane approved Kipper to come on campus,”
says Adam. “I actually take him to all my
classes, except for a science lab.”
Last spring Adam founded the Tulane
Service Dog Training and Education Program.
Adam, who saw a similar program at the
University of Kentucky prior to his enrollment
at Tulane, wanted to give students a chance
to get more involved in a community service
experience. Initially about 25 students
expressed an interest and now the club has a
solid membership of 50 students.
Jen, who chose Canine Companions for
her honors thesis project and is raising puppy
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Wasila, recently graduated from Virginia
Intermont College. “I chose to investigate
Canine Companions after reading Dean
Koontz’s book, ‘A Big Little Life,’ a memoir of
his Canine Companions retired dog Trixie,”
explains Jen. “After reading only a handful of
graduates’ stories, I was hooked and decided
I wanted to be a part of this wonderful
organization.”
LeAnn Siefferman, puppy program
manager for the Southeast region, says
recruiting college students to become
volunteer puppy raisers is a big interest
of the organization. “It opens up Canine
Companions to a whole new demographic,”
she explains. “We know that college students
can provide great socialization opportunities
for our dogs. And college clubs have helped
promote awareness of our mission, introduced
students to the concept of assistance dogs and
increased their awareness of disabilities.”
because it keeps Malvern out
of the jury’s sight. His good
work must be accomplished
without creating any risk
of bias on the part of jury
members who might have a
special affection for dogs.
“Malvern’s breeding and
professional training allow
him to excel at his job. He
is calm, well behaved, affectionate and unobtrusive,”
states Donna. “Malvern helps
victims find the words to
speak of the unspeakable.
As a result, we are better
able to obtain justice for victims and hopefully help them
begin the healing process.”
Thanks to Malvern, Jane
did find the confidence that
day to testify in court against
her abuser. Thanks to Malvern, Jane’s healing can begin.
If you are a college student interested
in bringing a Canine Companions club or
program to your campus, call 1-800-572-BARK
or email us at info@cci.org.
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All in a Day’s Work
Not every dog is the perfect fit for Canine Companions for
Independence’s rigorous assistance dog program. But a dog’s
release from our program doesn’t mean the end of a career.
Through a new survey of nearly 1,200 individuals who have
adopted Canine Companions released dogs, we were able to
see the astonishing impact our dogs continue to have in their
communities after they’re released from our program.
Most commonly, released dogs work as therapy dogs in
places such as nursing homes, hospices and libraries offering
comfort and support to children and adults.
Canine Companions released dogs make over 207,000
therapy visits each year and interact with over 17,250 people
each month. While released dogs may seek a path outside of
Canine Companions, it’s clear that our dogs are exceptional
and continue to change lives regardless of where each dog’s
journey takes them.
Please Note: The 2013 survey was only sent to individual adopters. Not included
in the survey were Canine Companions released dogs that were transferred to
other organizations for jobs in search and rescue, hypoglycemia alert dogs, guide
dogs and more.
Photos courtesy of Cheryl Horkan Photography
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Taking Assistance
to the Next Level
Dr. Melody Moore Jackson of Georgia Tech’s Animal Interaction Lab knows
innovative canine fashion. Melody leads a project called FIDO, Facilitating
Interactions for Dogs with Occupations. Along with the FIDO team and
Canine Companions Director of Canine Programs Paul Mundell, Melody
has integrated engineering and computer technology into assistance dog
gear, and a new high-tech gadget was born—the wearable computing vest.
The vest incorporates dog-friendly sensors to trigger a speaker that is
a literal call for help. Canine Companions Service Dog Caspin has been
the “protodog,” bringing this state-of-the-art technology into the real world
along with his partner Wallis Brozman.
“My dystonia causes me to have very little voice and unable to call for
help if I need it,” says Wallis, Canine Companions corporate advancement
assistant and graduate. “Knowing that Caspin can find a person, pull a
cord on his vest and the speaker will inform them that I need help is an
unbelievable relief.”
Additional applications of FIDO’s technology include integrating with
Google Glass to allow non-vocal graduates to send commands to their dogs
through vibrations on different areas of the dog’s vest. Another application
would allow hearing dogs to communicate to their deaf or hard of hearing
partner what sound they hear using a vest that can send a text message to
their partner’s cell phone.
Melody, Georgia Tech and Canine Companions hope to refine this incredible technology and expand FIDO’s research and development to outfit the
spectrum of assistance dogs trained at Canine Companions for Independence.
The possibilities are endless!
Eighteen DogFest Events
This Fall!
Join the fun at DogFest Walk ‘n Roll
as we raise money to support Canine
Companions. With 18 events this fall,
there is likely one near you!
Form a team. Raise money. Grab your
leash and come walk and roll with us!
For a location nearest you, visit
cci.org/dogfest.
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Volunteer
Helps Prison
Raise 100th
Puppy
H
eather Ohmart is helping care for,
love and housetrain eight-week-old
Canine Companions puppy Radar
until he is about four months old. Then she is sending
him to prison. Radar will spend about a year at Coffee Creek Correctional Facility
where inmates will provide training to help prepare him for a life of service for
someone with a disability.
Heather works with inmate dog handlers at Coffee Creek Correctional, contrib-
Prison Puppy Raising Program
Canine Companions for Independence puppies have a
uting her time and talents as a dog trainer.
“About 11 years ago, I heard a Canine Companions graduate speak at my Lions
special purpose in life, grow-
Club about her service dog,” explains Heather. “This woman said she couldn’t even
ing up to provide independence
leave her house independently without her service dog.” Heather was so moved to
to people with disabilities. The
help that she completed an application to raise a puppy before the club meeting even
Canine Companions prison
finished. She has been raising puppies ever since.
puppy raising program not
When Heather heard about the prison puppy raising program, she knew she
only benefits the puppies, but
wanted to volunteer. Radar will be the 100 puppy raised by Coffee Creek inmates
the inmate participants as well.
since the program’s inception. Half of those puppies have been raised since Heather
This program has made
th
began managing it seven years ago.
great strides since its inception
“I’m riding on the coat tails of all the people who
in 1995 at the prison that is now
are involved in this program. It is truly a team effort
called Coffee Creek Correc-
to accomplish this incredible milestone,” Heather
tional Center in Oregon. It has
says humbly. “This program gives the inmates a
expanded to include 12 other
way to give back to the community. But if the dogs
facilities located in Florida, Mis-
spent their whole time in a prison, they wouldn’t
sissippi, Montana, Washington,
be socialized to all the sights and sounds of the
Colorado, Texas and California.
outside world, including kids, elevators and loud
cars. So we have a team of volunteers who take
the puppies on field trips.” Heather also thanks
the donors, prison staff and local vet hospitals that contribute to the
program.
Thanks to Heather’s many years of devoted service to Canine
Companions’ mission, the national board of directors awarded Heather
the 2014 Jack Warnock Volunteer Service Award. “Heather exemplifies
the spirit of the Jack Warnock Volunteer Service Award and our
board of directors is proud to add Heather’s name to the list of
outstanding volunteer winners,” states Corey Hudson, CEO.
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Director’s Corner
Northeast Regional Board
What a busy year it has been! Once the cold, snowy winter
John Miller,
President
became a distant memory and spring transformed the landscape,
the Northeast region was off and running—holding workshops
Nancy McGraw,
Vice President
and performing public access tests for our graduates; we hosted
Yvonne Dagger
Patricia Griesmeyer
the annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon and Hearts &
Stacey Johnson-Lucchino
Heroes honoring Debby and Scott Rechler and our facility teams.
Javier Robles
More importantly, we graduated 27 new teams! With two
Jeffrey Schlossberg
more graduations ahead of us, we are poised to exceed our
Bari Taylor
Nancy Teague
Susan Winters,
Past President
Debra Dougherty, Executive Director,
Canine Companions Northeast Region
goal of 40 placements for 2014!
Looking ahead toward the second half of the year, we will
Marc Wortsman
continue to work hard to train and place as many of our exceptional dogs with the deserving
Col. E David Woycik, Jr.
candidates on our wait list.
Northeast Regional Staff
Debra Dougherty,
Executive Director
Ellen Torop,
Program Manager
However, in order to do so, we need your help! With the investment of each dog we place at
about $50,000, we need both your gifts of time and financial resources to raise our puppies and much
needed funds, which enable us to continue to fulfill the mission, at no charge to the recipients.
I encourage you to attend a graduation or other event, such as a DogFest Walk ‘n Roll, to
Debra MacKenzie,
Development Director
meet the volunteers who raise our puppies and the grateful recipients of our dogs. It is the best
Dan Moody,
Facilities Manager
way to learn and understand how important your gifts are in sustaining our mission. You can
Debbie Knatz,
Office Manager
Bonnie Stinson,
Caretaker
John Bentzinger,
Public Relations Coordinator
Danielle Drazen,
Development Associate/Volunteer
Coordinator
check the website at cci.org or contact me directly to learn the ways to help!
I thank you for all you do for us! I recognize that there are many organizations which
you may choose to support and that you have chosen to support Canine Companions for
Independence. As you enjoy this edition of The Companion, I hope you are inspired and
motivated to continue your support.
Sincerely,
Laura Ann Dubecky,
Graduate Program Manager/Instructor
Jessica Reiss-Cardinali,
Applicant Coordinator
Debra Dougherty
Katrina Winsor,
Puppy Program Manager
Executive Director, Northeast Region
Lauren Ferraioli,
Instructor
Amanda Otteni,
Apprentice Instructor
Tuning Up During Hands-on Workshops
Marissa Guidoboni,
Apprentice Instructor
The halls of the Miller Family Campus were buzzing with excitement over two
Leah Jacobson,
Apprentice Instructor
Kim Mizia,
Apprentice Instructor
Jennifer Krill,
Kennel Supervisor
Christina Bendetto,
Kennel Technician
John Hara,
Kennel Technician
Katie Kenny,
Kennel Technician
Katy O’Loughlin,
Kennel Technician
weekends in March and April.
In March, more than 85 volunteer puppy raisers attended a puppy raiser workshop.
The day also included a volunteer appreciation luncheon, which was generously underwritten by a Northeast board member.
The 2014 Northeast graduate workshop in April featured lectures and
hands-on training on topics including: sharpening your dog’s responses to
you; how to keep your dog safe and educate the public about fraudulent
service dogs; and canine first aid and CPR. Attendees were treated to
lunch and a lecture from past graduate James Bahamonde, ESQ .
on service dogs and the law.
Casey Shannon,
Kennel Technician
Kyle White,
Kennel Technician
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NASCAR Driver Brodie Kostecki Finishes First
Northeast reg ion volunteers and
a 16-year-old NASCAR driver who cur-
Disability Awareness Night at
Fenway Park
staff took part in the 2014 New York
rently races in the highly competitive K
The 2013 World Champion Boston Red
International Auto Show at the Javits
& N Series. Brodie’s number 43 Toyota
Sox and Canine Companions teamed
Center in Manhattan. It was an amazing
stock car, with its Canine Companions
up once again for this year’s annual
experience with wall-to-wall crowds
logo, was featured prominently at the
Disability Awareness Night at Fenway
visiting the Canine Companions booth,
booth. Over 1.1 million people and
Park. Sixty graduate teams and puppy
which was underwritten by Smithtown
37 dogs attended the show during its
raisers attended, including Brendan and
Toyota. In addition to meeting Canine
nine-day run and donations totaled over
his asstance dog, Fenway. Fenway was
Companion graduates and puppies in
$8,000. “Helping Canine Companions be
the Red Sox ballpark namesake and
training, the crowds got to meet Canine
more recognizable is very exciting,” says
had one of Major League Baseball’s
Companions supporter Brodie Kostecki,
Brodie.
most popular blog sites in 2012. Another
Young racing fans got an autograph and a chance to meet Brodie Kostecki up close and personal.
graduate team that attended was Lillian
and her assistance dog, Frontier, who
became part of the Red Sox family
during the 100th anniversary celebration
“Helping Canine Companions be
more recognizable is very exciting.”
—Brodie Kostecki
of Fenway Park in 2012, when the Red
Sox selected Canine Companions as one
of their 100-acts of kindness.
Facility team Kathy Clair-Hayes
and Tommy Furlong with Facility Dog
Thor carried the ceremonial ‘first fetch’
to the pitcher’s mound. The facility team
works with the Massachusetts General
Hospital’s Home Base Program, which
is supported by the Boston Red Sox
Foundation.
Brendan with Boston Red Sox President and
CEO Larry Luchino and Canine Companions
assistance dog, Fenway.
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Northeast Region
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➊
➋
➌
Northeast Region Distinguished Graduates and Volunteers!
The Canine Companions Northeast region congratulates three women who have recently distinguished themselves for outstanding
service to their communities.
➊ Northeast regional board member
State House. Massachusetts State Attorney
six-time puppy raisers Debra and
and volunteer puppy raiser Yvonne
General Martha Coakley presented this
Mark Strickenburg were awarded the
Dagger was honored at the 16th Annual
year’s Innovations Award to Myers and
Daughters of the American Revolution
Town of Oyster Bay Women of Dis-
Wena for their pioneering efforts to assist
Outstanding Achievement Award at
tinction awards ceremony. Yvonne is an
and support crime victims throughout the
the organization’s 109th Maryland State
award-winning Long Island artist from
state. Laurie is the founder of Community
Conference. Debra and Mark were rec-
Massapequa, New York who recently
VOICES, a non-profit advocacy and sup-
ognized for their outstanding service to
raised her second puppy, appropriately
port service to victims of violent crime.
Canine Companions. Debra Strickenburg
named Dagger.
Laurie was matched with Facility Dog
is a long-time member of the Fredrick
➋ Canine Companions graduate
Wena in 2011. Wena was the first dog in
Chapter of the Daughters of the Ameri-
Laurie Myers and Facility Dog Wena were
the state of Massachusetts to work in the
can Revolution.
recently honored during a Victim Rights
criminal justice system.
Month ceremony at the Massachusetts
➌ Capital Chapter members and
➊ Yvonne Dagger pictured at 16th Annual Town of Oyster Bay Women of Distinction awards ceremony with other winners ➋ (L to R) Massachusetts
Office of Victim Assistance Executive Director Liam Lowney; Community VOICES founder Laurie Myers and Facility Dog Wena; Essex District Attorney
Jonathan W. Blodgett ➌ Debra Strickenburg accepts Daughters of the American Revolution Outstanding Achievement Award
Celebrating Partnership with Prudential Insurance
It’s been a busy spring for Canine Companions volunteers and our corporate partner
Prudential Insurance. Parents and their children had a great time celebrating Take Your
Child to Work Day at Prudential’s New Jersey headquarters. Volunteers gave presentations
to kids in three different age groups. As a national sponsor of Canine Companions,
Prudential Group Insurance is helping elevate disability awareness nationwide. The children
and their parents learned about assistance dogs, what Canine Companions dogs can do
for our graduates and how they are trained.
Northeast region graduate teams and volunteers also assisted at Prudential’s booth at
the 2014 Special Olympics USA National Games in Princeton, New Jersey. Nearly 3,500
athletes competed in 16 Olympic-style sports with the support of 1,000 coaches, 10,000
volunteers and 70,000 family, friends and spectators. It was a great outreach opportunity
for Canine Companions!
Linda Strauss, marketing manager for Prudential and Debra Dougherty, Canine Companions Northeast
executive director.
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Northeast Region
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The Rechlers Honored
at Hearts & Heroes
(L to R) Canine Companions Northeast Region Executive Director
Debra Dougherty; Maria and Ramon Siaba; Honorees Debby and
Scott Rechler; Veronica with Skilled Companion Lynch.
Canine Companions celebrated its 12th Annual Hearts and Heroes Gala with over
200 people in attendance and raising over $300,000. The event honored RXR Realty
Hearts & Heroes Sponsors
LLC Chairman and CEO Scott Rechler and his wife Deborah, both long-time
BEST IN SHOW: McGraw Hill Financial; Kristin
supporters of the organization. Besides Scott’s work leading one of the largest real
& John Miller CHAMPION: RXR Realty LLC;
estate companies in the New York Tri-State area, the two are noted philanthropists.
Nancy Teague PEDIGREE: Save the Starfish
The event, themed “Building & ‘Heeling’ Communities,” featured the stories of
four facility dog teams that are making a tremendous difference in the legal system,
rehabilitation, special education, and with wounded veterans. Staten Island District
Attorney Daniel M. Donovan’s facility dog Bronksy has become a highly respected and
integral member of the District Attorney’s office, working with distressed witnesses.
Dr. Sandra “Buffy” Wojciehowski and Facility Dog Willie work at the renowned
Kessler Rehabilitation Institute in West Orange, New Jersey. One of her patients
Foundation BEST FRIEND: DeMartino Construction Company; Mark & Debra Dougherty;
Ernst & Young LLP; Kurzrok Foundation; Cleary,
Gottlieb, Steen & Hamilton LLP; David & Sondra
Mack Foundation; Rae Stone & Forrest Allen
with Toliver TOP DOG: Tom & Judy Carey;
Louis & Penny Croce; William & Nattavadee Hillegass; Stephan & Julie Love; Willis Ryckman;
is former Rutgers football player Eric LeGrand, who was left paralyzed from the
Henry Schein Animal Health; Marc Wortsman
neck down. Eric credits his success in therapy to Willie’s motivation and comfort.
& Shelley Goldman; The Winters Family COM-
Amy Mahoney is founder of the Long Island-based non-profit Peaceful Minds,
PANION: Pequa Home Improvements, Inc.;
a wellness center for combat veterans. Amy’s Facility Dog Nyak has formed an
Jennifer & Bradley Marsh; The Elena Melius
immediate bond with with many of the veterans she helps treat.
Foundation; MSA Security; Mr. & Mrs. Gordon
Cheryl Avino, a social worker for ECLC of New Jersey, helps students with
special needs, including Autism, Down’s Syndrome and severe learning disabilities
Seaman; Cindy Yayac IN-KIND SPONSOR:
Austin & Williams
with Facility Dog Patrina. Students work with Patrina during various therapies or
spend time relaxing and petting her.
Sails & Tails recognizes Kathy & Jerry Wood Foundation
Sails & Tails Sponsors
$50,000 Grant for Facility Dogs
CAPTAIN: The Bryn Mawr School-Sherry
The Capital Chapter’s Sixth Annual Sails & Tails fundraising event continues to
grow each year. This year’s event, held at the Marriott Waterfront in Annapolis, was
highlighted by the announcement of a $50,000 grant from the Kathy and Jerry Wood
Foundation. Sallie Hamrick, trustee of the foundation, received special recognition at
the event from Northeast Region Executive Director Debra Dougherty. The grant will
help Canine Companions provide follow-up services for facility teams like Patricia
Shootout BOW: Annapolis Cars; Edelman
Financial Services; Northrop Grumman; Alice
Hathaway PORT: Mike Hartsky, Spike &
Levin; Jeffrey & Michele Kauffman; Margaret &
Roy Wells STARBOARD: Ron & Joan Apatoff;
Novella’s Knots; Mark & Debbie Strickenburg;
John Michelli & Nancy Patterson; The M.U.S.E.
Foundation STERN: Sonja & Peter Fuchs;
Lenzo and Facility Dog Gino. Patricia and Gino work at ECLC of New Jersey, a
McShane Glover; Dr. Andrew Harding & Lily
special needs school. Gino was raised by Capital Chapter puppy raisers Mark and
Bruch; Dogwood Acres Pet Retreat & Caring
Debra Strickenburg. Sails & Tails was attended by more than 200 supporters and
Canines; E. William Hartsky; Long Reach High
raised over $35,000.
School Leadership Class; Art & Cindy Patterson;
James & Michele Purton; Sherri Ramsay; The
Big Bad Woof; Rivka M. Yerushalmi
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Eukanuba Sponsors
Two Special Litters
Give Monthly. Change
Someone’s Life Daily.
Be a part of daily independence
The E Litter Returns
by becoming a Monthly Mira-
On National Graduation Day, May 16, the
monthly gift of $15 or more
cle Maker. When you give a
E Litter returned to Canine Companions
to Canine Companions, you
for Independence regional training cen-
are providing the resources a
ters to begin their professional training.
Emma, Everett, Ella, Elmo, Euka, Emily,
young pup needs to become an
Ethan and Eliza matriculated at our
Welcome Hero Litter
assistance dog that can change
graduation ceremonies that took place
Millions viewed the Eukanuba live
around the country. Their journey to
web stream of the recent Hero Litter,
disability.
extraordinary will continue as they
born March 18. Holly, Harvest, Hudson,
learn and perfect up to 40 commands on
Harpo, Hoagy, Harbor and Hala were all
their path to becoming assistance dogs.
presented on National Graduation Day,
Thanks to Eukanuba’s sponsorship
May 16 in Santa Rosa, California, home
of the E Litter, Canine Companions is
to Canine Companions headquarters.
able to place more assistance dogs free
The eight-week-old puppies went home
of charge with people with disabilities.
to their puppy raisers, where the pups
We’d also like to thank all the loyal
will live for the next year and a half
people who have supported, loved,
before returning to a Canine Compan-
watched and cheered for this litter of
ions training center for professional
pups for the last year and a half.
training.
the life of someone with a
Become a Monthly Miracle
Maker today at cci.org/donate.
Subscribe to our blog, Help is a Four-Legged Word,™ at blog.cci.org to enjoy a
slide show of the E & Hero Litters and to keep up to date on their progress.
E Litter at eight weeks old
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Express Your Passion. We’re Here to Help.
Philanthropy gives donors a path to generously express their
have made gifts in their estate plans) are already in conversation
passion for Canine Companions for Independence and its
with our new directors of individual giving. Individual giving
life-changing mission. And if you’re moved to contribute to
is giving in the “now,” while planned giving is in the “later,” as
enhancing the lives of people with disabilities through highly
it focuses on the future of Canine Companions through wills,
skilled assistance dogs, new teammates are here to help!
estates and other designations.
This year, Canine Companions has welcomed three direc-
Whether you are thinking about your ultimate legacy or
tors of individual giving to our staff, located in cities across
the difference you want to make today, our team is here to
the country most convenient to our donor communities. Each
help. In many cases, a gift to Canine Companions confers
of these philanthropic professionals comes from backgrounds
desirable tax benefits.
rich in experience with charitable giving. They are thrilled to
If you or someone you know is interested in exploring
be partnering with our generous supporters to help each one
charitable goals with Canine Companions for Independence,
fully express his or her hopes for Canine Companions’ mission.
please contact one of our directors of individual giving or Dave
Our directors of individual giving will be glad to work
Bonfilio, national director of planned giving, at pginfo@cci.org
with you to create unique gift opportunities that best reflect the
or 1-866-CCI-DOGS (224-3647).
aspects of our mission that most inspire you—now and later! A
number of our faithful Heritage Society members (those who
We are looking forward to visiting with you in your
community soon!
Meet our New Directors of Individual Giving
Janie “JP” Petersen
Chicago
jpetersen@cci.org
740-602-3227
Judea Franck
Denver
jfranck@cci.org
970-216-5149
Rip Rice
Orlando
rrice@cci.org
407-522-3301
“On one of my first job assignments, I
“Animals have taught me all of the
“I feel as though I have found my dream
encountered the transformational impact
great lessons: compassion, love, respect,
job working for Canine Companions.
an assistance dog could have for a person
humility, laughter and a deep appreci-
My favorite part of my job is the chance
with a disability. I have never forgotten
ation for making the most out of every
I get to meet with supporters and build
that experience. Individual giving is
moment. I can’t wait to work with all
relationships, while finding ways to
foundational to the stability and future
of you to make so many lives better
make a transformative impact on the
of Canine Companions. Just imagine
through connections with these amaz-
lives of others.”
how many more of our extraordinary
ingly talented canines.”
dogs we could place!”
12
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Canine Companions for Independence®
7/23/14 5:08 PM
Photo courtesy of Coplen Photography
A History of Giving
Update on New Texas
Training Center
Baylor Scott & White Health
“I think I’ve been aware of Canine Companions my whole life,” recalls Amie when
asked how she first got involved with Canine Companions for Independence. “My
grandparents supported it, my mom supported it and when I became involved with
the family foundation, I wanted to support it too.”
Amie is a trustee for the English Family Foundation. For Amie and her family,
they all chose to support Canine Companions because they were inspired by the
positive results working with an assistance dog has on the dog’s human partner.
“I think there are a lot of people who are not aware of the great effect these dogs
can have,” explains Amie. “The dogs are capable of so much physically, including
picking up a dropped coin off the ground or opening a door, but they offer so much
more than that. They can also be someone to talk to and a best friend.”
For Amie, meeting other Canine Companions
and Canine Companions are
teaming up to build a new
training center in Texas. The
new campus is scheduled to
open in 2015 and will be the
sixth in the country.
The land for the new
center has been selected and
construction begins this
summer.
If you are interested
in starting a career as an
assistance dog trainer, please
supporters has also been an opportunity for
visit cci.org/instructors.
inspiration. She met Joe, who is an avid
supporter like herself, at a fundraiser
last year. He is also a 2012 recipient of a Canine Companions
service dog. “Sometimes you
As
a supporter of Canine
can’t explain why you’re so
Companions you change lives every
compelled to work with an
day. And we are so grateful! Thanks
organization or why you’re
so attracted to its mission.
to your generous donations of time, talent
Meeting Joe at the fundraiser
and resources we’ve already provided
and learning that he spends
significant time giving back
165 assistance dogs to people with
to the organization brought
disabilities free of charge in 2014.
everything full circle for me.”
The Companion Summer 2014
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13
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2014 Team Training Yearbook
Northwest Region
➊ February David & Justin with
Gavin IV; Colette with Cate; Sam,
Caroline, & Suzette with Halo II; Jeffrey,
Mark & Bonnie with Mingo; Cynthia with
Freckle; Thanh, Kaden & Sheila with
Homer V; Thida with Nakoma; Shelby
& Dustin with Ohana II; Brian, Shelly
& Stephanie with Haleah; Finn, Blair &
Marc with Hunter V
➊
➋ April Jesse with Omada; Kaitlin
with Laney II; Sandy with Melinda II;
Judith with Maverick II; Christine with
Dixie VI; Marlissa with Ferin II; Michael
with Karen IV; Marc with Mildred
➌ May Charlotte with Dozer II; Jason
with Rue II; Karenmarie with Naples II;
Stacey with Cavalier; Lisa with Legacy III;
Shawna with Flicka IV; Wayne with Jose
➍ May Kristi & Sam with Jalina; Isaac
& Dawn with Kaylor; Eric, Brigit, & Milo
with Gally; Ben & Beth with Tallula; Tyler
& Jennifer with Gretchen VI; Kristi &
Mateo with Caliber; Christine with Trinity;
Wyatt & Cristina with Ocli III; Candice,
Jacob, & Lucinda with Yerba II; Justice
& Jodi with Kat II; Helen with Marymae
➋
➌
Your support makes
each of these teams
possible.
Southwest Region
To make more
teams possible go
to cci.org/donate
or use the enclosed
envelope to mail
your donation.
➎ February Jack with Nisha
➏ February Cathy & Daniel with
Sydney III
➐ February Shelley & Otto with Cara
IV; Sheila with Nika V; Rich with Kenny III;
Bryan with Yang; John with Oro III; Sara
with Tulah; Michael with Nita III; Billy
with Potter; Nicole with Helper II; Will &
Yvonne with Gracie VI
➑ May Kimberly with Hachi II; Joanna
& Wyatt with Baya II; Rich with Leona IV;
Kirk & Dana with Blade IV; Meghan with
Calliope II; Tiffany & Erik with Nutmeg IV;
Sonya & Kruz with Sprugel; Melissa & Ian
with Nutella; Jennifer with Pita II; Jessica
& Nathan with Otis V; Corey, Ana & Greg
with Obie
➍
➎
➏
➐
➒ May Phillip, Jonathon & Marie
with Saffron IV
➓ May David with Pim
Join us for 2014 graduation
ceremonies: August 15 &
November 7
Visit cci.org/graduation
for more information
14
2014 Summer Companion r9.indd 14
➑
➒
➓
Canine Companions for Independence®
7/23/14 5:09 PM
North Central Region
➊ February Noah & Kari with Nifty
II; Lizzy & Kimberly with Tavie; Mila, Cara
& Douglas with Kindy II; Jack & Julie with
Hoshi II; Cameron, Elisha & Kevin with
Victoria IV; Adalee & Joshua with Taylee;
Christin & Elizabeth with Roam; Megan &
Kevin with Melba II; Sophia & Jessica with
Gidget IV; Carmine & Lisa with Lotto
➋ February Jerry with Montego; Rochelle
with Blair IV; Sarah with Jal; Mary with Oregon
IV; Paula with Kaysen II; Steve with Aurora IV;
Craig with Yoder II; Greg with Saxby
➌ May Mary with Waldo III; Rebekah,
Marilyn & Andy with Romey; Dennis &
Melony with Odle; Mitchell & Ron with
Loralei; Betsy with Rumi; Jack, Ann & Tom
with Mitchell IV; Emma, Heather & Josh
with Tsunami II; Jacob & Nancy with Napali;
Isaiah & Joel with Oberlin II; Donald & Don
with Jamba II
➍ May Stephanie with Karma III; Ryan
with Wanda VI; Jean with Comanche;
Melissa with Hud II; Kathy with Camry II
➊
➋
➌
➍
Southeast Region
➎ February Parker with Denver III; Mari
Johnson; Jeff with Finley II; Renee with
Oberto II; Tracey with Nibs; Brenda with Tibet
II; Brooke, Jennifer & Kevin with Howdy;
Wesley & Meredith with Odina II; Chuck
Dickinson; Dawson & Laura with Nickel III;
Dyllan, Sheila & Kevin with Jacob V; Molly
& Catherine with Jerry V; Shelley Dickinson;
Evan & Martha with Pete III; Melissa
Vasquez; Dylan & Kathy with Paddington II
➎
➏ May Gary with Sorley; Candace with
Lucas IV; Laura & Ed with Bauer II; T.K. with
Tebow; Donna with Nomad IV; James, Jim &
Victoria with Lennie; Amanda with Locke II;
Tamara with Willow VI; Duncan & Misty with
Scout IV; Terry with Pacey. Not pictured: J.P.,
Jeff & Paige with Karina II
Northeast Region
➐ February John with Javier; Sarah with
Meyer II; Ryan with Pico II; Matthew, Kristen
& Lillian with Randall II; Ken with Reeves III;
Arlene with Kirby VII; Lori, Rich & Stewart
with Chipper; Victor & Jonathan with TK II;
Alex & Harper V; Tommy & Clair with Thor IV
➏
➐
➑
➒
➑ March Marjorie with Archie II; Colby,
Kristy & Ryan with Prince V; Luke & Diana
with Noble IV; Madison, Jim & Veronica with
Sardee; Alexandra & Melissa with Clara IV;
Sophia, Rich & Susan with Ocho II
➒ May Melanie & Doreen with Matisse
II; Michael with Heidi VII; Joann with Geode;
Meredith with Tom III; Matt with Hickory III;
Hank & Patrick with Georgia VIII; Bridger &
Cindy with Tyrone II
The Companion Summer 2014
2014 Summer Companion r9.indd 15
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Board Members
Officers
Anne Gittinger
Chair, Seattle, WA
John Miller Vice Chair, Garden City, NY
Jean Schulz
Executive Secretary
& Past President, Santa Rosa, CA
John McKinney
Treasurer,
Healdsburg, CA
Members
Joann Elliott
Naperville, IL
John Elliott
Naperville, IL
Mel Gottlieb
Double Bay, Australia
Barrie Graham
Novato, CA
Russ Gurevitch, DVM
Penngrove, CA
Robin Gurrola, ex-officio
Lodi, CA
Leslie Hennessy
Colorado Springs, CO
John Hopen
Sebastopol, CA
Carolyn Hrach
Mars, PA
Chris Kittredge
Santa Rosa, CA
Jill Leverton, MD
Napa, CA
Pauline Parry, PhD
San Mateo, CA
Rob Patterson
Doylestown, PA
Juergen Rottler
Saratoga, CA
Nancy Sawhney
Sacramento, CA
Dennis Sproule
Fullerton, CA
Bob Street
Colorado Springs, CO
William White
Winter Park, FL
Emily Williams
Santa Rosa, CA
Nonprofit Org.
U.S. Postage
PA I D
By Canine
Companions
for Independence
PO Box 446
Santa Rosa, CA 95402-0446
Address Service Requested
If you receive duplicate issues, please
contact us and pass extras along to friends.
Corey Hudson, CEO, Santa Rosa, CA
Ted Rogahn, Past President, Lakewood, CA
Honorary & Associate Board Members
Judy Allen
Santa Rosa, CA
Jack Hanna
Powell, OH
Dean & Gerda Koontz
Newport Beach, CA
Terry Levin
San Francisco, CA
Madeleine Paulson
Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Jon Provost
Santa Rosa, CA
Jason Taylor
P & G PetCare
Bruce Thorn
PetSmart
Jack Warnock
San Francisco, CA
Jean Wiskowski
Prudential
Offices
National Headquarters & Northwest Training Center
Santa Rosa, CA
Southwest Training Center
Oceanside, CA
Southwest Advancement Offices
Los Angeles, CA; Colorado Springs, CO; Denver, CO
Southeast Training Center
Orlando, FL
Northeast Training Center
Medford, NY
North Central Training Center
Delaware, OH
North Central Advancement Office
Chicago, IL
Email: info@cci.org
Web Site: cci.org
Phone: 1-800-572-BARK (2275)
Credits ©2014 Canine Companions for Independence, Inc.
All rights reserved. Printed in USA. Canine Companions for
Independence,® its logo, and Exceptional Dogs for Exceptional
People® are trademarks of Canine Companions for Independence, Inc.
Editor: Erin Thompson
Printer: The Goode Co. Printing
Design: Combustion Creative
Grab a Leash!
DogFest Walk ‘n Roll is coming to a community near you! A family-friendly,
dog-friendly and accessible walk and festival. See page 5 for more information.
National Strategic Partners
FOR
#11647
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