Fall 2012 NewsletterDRAFT.indd - Canine Companions for ...
Fall 2012 NewsletterDRAFT.indd - Canine Companions for ...
Fall 2012 NewsletterDRAFT.indd - Canine Companions for ...
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North Central Companion<br />
The Official Newsletter <strong>for</strong> the North Central Region of <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> <strong>for</strong> Independence®<br />
Autumn <strong>2012</strong> issue: <strong>Canine</strong>s on Campus, Lunch and Learn, Service Club Partnerships, Around the Region,<br />
Preparing <strong>for</strong> Puppies, <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> DogFest, Donate with Confidence, Hard-Working Dogs.<br />
Not just students heading back<br />
to school this fall - <strong>Canine</strong>s on Campus<br />
As students prepare to head back to campus this fall they<br />
run down their checklist of items to pack – notebooks,<br />
pencils, Ramen noodles and alarm clocks. Alex Woodall,<br />
a sophomore at Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio, also<br />
includes on his list leashes, collars and water dishes. That is<br />
because Alex will be joined in the dorms by Service Dog<br />
Carlos.<br />
Alex graduated from <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> <strong>for</strong> Independence®<br />
in November 2009. He was placed with Carlos, a yellow<br />
Labrador-Golden retriever cross. When asked why he decided<br />
to apply <strong>for</strong> a <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>’ assistance dog Alex replied,<br />
“I wanted more independence and thought an assistance dog<br />
would help me greatly!”<br />
Alex was right – Carlos has helped greatly indeed. On campus<br />
during Alex’s freshman year Carlos helped numerous times<br />
by retrieving items Alex dropped during the day including<br />
pens, pencils and papers. He also helped carry items such as<br />
Alex’s computer bag. One day, upon returning to his dorm after<br />
shopping, Alex dropped his groceries and they scattered all over<br />
the floor. Instead of waiting <strong>for</strong> someone to come along and help<br />
him, he was able to have Carlos retrieve each item and help put<br />
it where it belonged. “With Carlos I don’t have to rely as much<br />
on other people. I can be more independent,” Alex shared.<br />
“I’m not going to say I wouldn’t have gone to college without<br />
Carlos, but he makes it so easy.” Carlos is also a friend and<br />
a constant companion. “Going to college was the first time I<br />
had ever lived away from home and at first I did feel a little<br />
homesick, but Carlos would make me feel better.”<br />
In addition to being the DJ at the school radio station and<br />
a member of the Wright State University euchre club, Alex<br />
Alex Woodall and Service Dog Carlos Kara Niswonger and Service Dog Jen II Hans Smith and Service Dog Rambo<br />
Continued on page 3.<br />
<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2012</strong> <strong>NewsletterDRAFT</strong>.<strong>indd</strong> 1 8/17/12 4:51 PM
A Letter from the<br />
Executive Director...<br />
<strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> <strong>for</strong> Independence® has a powerful mission - training<br />
dogs to per<strong>for</strong>m tasks to provide more independence <strong>for</strong> adults, children<br />
and veterans. But it isn’t only the training of the dogs that makes <strong>Canine</strong><br />
<strong>Companions</strong> one of the top assistance dog organizations in the country.<br />
There are many ‘behind the scenes’ aspects that contribute to our remarkable<br />
organization.<br />
<strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>’ breeding program is continually evaluated to provide the best genetic combinations<br />
<strong>for</strong> temperament, behavior, and trainability <strong>for</strong> <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>’ future assistance dogs. This requires dedicated<br />
staff members that monitor the breeding program, chart its successes and plan <strong>for</strong> the future. In addition to <strong>Canine</strong><br />
<strong>Companions</strong>’ staff, we have a group of volunteers that we call our breeder caretakers. They provide a safe and loving<br />
environment both <strong>for</strong> the breeder dogs and <strong>for</strong> the newborn puppies that are whelped in their homes. Puppies are then<br />
sent to volunteer puppy raisers at 8 weeks of age and raised in their homes until 14-16 months of age.<br />
The North Central region’s kennel staff interacts with the dogs in our facility <strong>for</strong> professional training on a<br />
daily basis. They insure that all of the dogs are in good health - cleaning kennels several times per day, feeding the<br />
dogs, exercising the dogs, bathing dogs, taking dogs to the veterinarian as needed, administering medications, keeping<br />
the building clean, etc. They provide invaluable contributions in order to guarantee our success.<br />
Our instructors work with the dogs every day - continually evaluating each dog and teaching them the<br />
commands necessary to become successful assistance dogs. In addition to these training tasks, each instructor works<br />
in other capacities. These capacities include administering the volunteer puppy raising program, per<strong>for</strong>ming continual<br />
follow-up communications and visits with the region’s graduate teams, scheduling and conducting interviews <strong>for</strong><br />
people applying to receive one of our dogs, teaching the required two-week Team Training classes that matches and<br />
instructs people receiving one of the dogs on their use, etc.<br />
The development department staff is busy generating funding to support all of these endeavors. Not only<br />
does the development staff organize and conduct fundraising events throughout the region, but they also work to<br />
obtain media coverage, manage and coordinate our region-wide volunteer ef<strong>for</strong>ts, plan and orchestrate the quarterly<br />
Team Training Graduation ceremonies, provide demonstrations and <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> presentations, create greater<br />
awareness of the assistance dog industry as well as people with disabilities, etc.<br />
Thank you to our donors <strong>for</strong> providing the funding needed <strong>for</strong> us to be able to accomplish all of the services<br />
listed above and the ability to provide the dogs free of charge to the recipients. In addition to the ‘behind the scenes’<br />
operations, thank you to our donors <strong>for</strong> providing the funding to enable <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> to be able to fulfill our<br />
mission and profoundly change people’s lives.<br />
I would encourage you to attend one of our graduation ceremonies - it is a testament of what you are<br />
investing in - people with disabilities becoming more independent. Guaranteed that you will be moved and decide<br />
that this is truly the non-profit mission that you want to support and are proud of the results that your gifts provide!<br />
Judy Myers, North Central Executive Director<br />
2 <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> <strong>for</strong> Independence<br />
<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2012</strong> <strong>NewsletterDRAFT</strong>.<strong>indd</strong> 2 8/17/12 4:51 PM
<strong>Canine</strong>s on Campus continued.<br />
also enjoys being an advocate <strong>for</strong> <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>. He recently utilized his<br />
communication skills as a guest speaker <strong>for</strong> a Making Miracles Happen fundraiser<br />
bringing the audience to tears of joy as he described his passion <strong>for</strong> <strong>Canine</strong><br />
<strong>Companions</strong> and Carlos.<br />
“He’s the best college roommate you could hope <strong>for</strong>.”<br />
At Muskingum University in New Concord, Ohio, Service Dog Jen II accompanies<br />
<strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>’ graduate Kara Niswonger to class. “She has been an icebreaker<br />
of sorts and has allowed me to connect with so many different people on campus,”<br />
Kara stated. “She has also made it a lot easier <strong>for</strong> me to get around the campus.”<br />
<strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>’ assistance dogs are enhancing college experiences all<br />
across the country. Nearly 2,000 miles west of Ohio, on the campus of Boise<br />
State University, Service Dog Rambo attended senior year courses with <strong>Canine</strong><br />
<strong>Companions</strong>’ graduate Hans Smith. “Sometimes having Rambo is the only way<br />
I can do things on my own,” Hans shared. He then told the story of a day he<br />
was rushing to class and rather than having to stop and ask someone to help him<br />
push an elevator button, he was able to have Rambo do it <strong>for</strong> him. “People got so<br />
excited and thought it was so cool that my dog could do that <strong>for</strong> me,” Hans said.<br />
Rambo was by Hans’ side during his Boise State graduation ceremony. The two<br />
proudly accepted a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications and Journalism and<br />
are looking <strong>for</strong>ward to continuing their journey together.<br />
Lunch and Learn<br />
Service Club Partnerships<br />
Hans celebrates as he and Rambo cross<br />
the stage at the Boise State University<br />
graduation ceremony.<br />
How often do you get to lunch at a wonderful restaurant and receive a live demonstration<br />
of how assistance dogs help people with disabilities? Kenzie Danis, pictured left with <strong>Canine</strong><br />
<strong>Companions</strong>’ puppy Albus, hosted a Lunch and Learn at Figlio restaurant in Columbus,<br />
Ohio to raise awareness and funds <strong>for</strong> <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> last May. Although the Danis<br />
Family has raised three dogs <strong>for</strong> the organization, the current <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>’ puppy<br />
they are raising is part of Kenzie’s senior high school project. Kenzie introduced <strong>Canine</strong><br />
<strong>Companions</strong> to many new faces and raised funds to help the organization so it may<br />
continue to provide assistance dogs to the recipients’ free of charge. If you are interested<br />
in hosting a Lunch and Learn to educate your friends about <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>, please<br />
contact Laurel H. Marks, (740) 833-3702 to discuss the potential opportunity.<br />
<strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> is <strong>for</strong>tunate to have many wonderful partners.<br />
These partners consist of businesses, corporations and clubs. <strong>Canine</strong><br />
<strong>Companions</strong> and the Greater Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC)<br />
have an established relationship that goes beyond donations. Each region<br />
provides the commitment to educate GFWC clubs through presentations.<br />
The North Central Region has been <strong>for</strong>tunate to speak to clubs in Ohio,<br />
Pennsylvania, Michigan, Missouri and Illinois. With the onset of the new<br />
president, Mary Ellen Laister, the GFWC handbook has been updated<br />
with the continued Home Life mention of <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> and the<br />
Wounded Veterans Initiative.<br />
Lions Club also partners with <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> through volunteerism<br />
and fundraising. The partnership dates back to <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>’ very<br />
beginnings in the mid-1970s when Lions and Lionesses were the first<br />
volunteers recruited to serve as puppy raisers and breeder caretakers.<br />
Any Lions Clubs interested in a service project <strong>for</strong> <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong><br />
should contact Laurel H. Marks at (740) 833-3702.<br />
If you are a member of a service club other than GFWC or Lions Club,<br />
with the same vision of empowering your community, please contact<br />
<strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> at (740) 833-3700 to schedule a presentation to learn<br />
more about <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>’ programs.<br />
Funds raised by service clubs, such as GFWC and the<br />
Lions Club, help provide independence <strong>for</strong> <strong>Canine</strong><br />
<strong>Companions</strong>’ graduates like Charlie - pictured above<br />
with facilitator Beth and Skilled Companion Dog<br />
Katrina III.<br />
The North Central Companion Autumn <strong>2012</strong> 3<br />
<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2012</strong> <strong>NewsletterDRAFT</strong>.<strong>indd</strong> 3 8/17/12 4:51 PM
TEAM TRAINING YEARBOOK<br />
May <strong>2012</strong> Graduates<br />
Emily<br />
Service Dog Dash II<br />
Ohio<br />
Sandra & James Globa<br />
Erie, Pennsylvania<br />
Joe<br />
Service Dog Ansel III<br />
Ohio<br />
Debra & Mark Sellers<br />
Council Grove, Kansas<br />
Pamela<br />
Service Dog Juanita<br />
Michigan<br />
Sara Stahler<br />
Bellefontaine, Ohio<br />
Rachel*<br />
Facilitator: Margaret<br />
Successor Skilled Companion<br />
Dog Jones II<br />
Illinois<br />
Betsy Jones<br />
Delaware, Ohio<br />
Shannon<br />
Successor Service Dog Sly<br />
Arizona<br />
Wade Kammin<br />
Springfield, Illinois<br />
Zachary<br />
Facilitator: Melinda<br />
Successor Skilled<br />
Companion Dog Dietzer<br />
Illinois<br />
Jane & Dan Barber<br />
Libertyville, Illinois<br />
Note: Italicized names indicate the puppy raiser of the graduating dog<br />
* Indicates Graduate from a Side Placement<br />
Thomas<br />
Service Dog Tamali<br />
Wisconsin<br />
Cheri & Larry Stratton<br />
Richland, Michigan<br />
Jeff<br />
Service Dog Celia II<br />
Iowa<br />
Pat Long Sims<br />
Plainview, Illinois<br />
Spring <strong>2012</strong> Wish List<br />
• High-efficiency<br />
(HE) laundry detergent<br />
• Liquid dishwasher detergent<br />
• Recordable DVD’s (DVD-R)<br />
• Tissues<br />
• Dogipot litter bags<br />
• Goughnuts<br />
• 7.5 x 10.5 mailing envelopes<br />
• Dog shampoo (12 oz. bottles)<br />
• Miller Forge nail trimmers<br />
(large size)<br />
Steve<br />
Service Dog Pluto II<br />
Illinois<br />
Debra Locander<br />
Rogers, Arkansas<br />
Holly*<br />
Successor Service Dog<br />
Serena II<br />
Illinois<br />
Tina O’Connor<br />
Bondurant, Wyoming<br />
David<br />
Service Dog Putnam III<br />
Michigan<br />
Sally & Larry Rosine<br />
Leawood, Kansas<br />
Miles<br />
Service Dog Einstein II<br />
Minnesota<br />
Cathy & James Steiner<br />
Palatine, Illinois<br />
• Slicker brushes<br />
• Shedding blades<br />
• Collapsible water bowls<br />
• Cotton balls<br />
• Furminator grooming tools<br />
• Plain copy paper<br />
Dream Big!<br />
• Portable AC unit <strong>for</strong> training room<br />
• Power generator<br />
• Sprinter cargo van <strong>for</strong> veterinary<br />
visits and training field trips<br />
4 <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> <strong>for</strong> Independence<br />
<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2012</strong> <strong>NewsletterDRAFT</strong>.<strong>indd</strong> 4 8/17/12 4:52 PM
July <strong>2012</strong> Graduates<br />
August <strong>2012</strong> Graduates<br />
Joseph<br />
Facilitator: Melissa<br />
Skilled Companion Dog<br />
Mojo II<br />
Indiana<br />
Marty Marlatt<br />
Columbus, Ohio<br />
Carter<br />
Facilitators: Lisa & David<br />
Skilled Companion Dog<br />
Hollen II<br />
Illinois<br />
The Zins Family<br />
Powell, Ohio<br />
Joanna<br />
Successor Facility Dog<br />
Gerard III<br />
Ohio<br />
Becky Qualy<br />
New Palastine, Indiana<br />
Julia<br />
Facilitator: Mary Lyn<br />
Skilled Companion Dog<br />
Hartmann<br />
Pennsylvania<br />
Leslie Young, Westerville, Ohio<br />
Faith & Skip Walzak, Sunbury, Ohio<br />
Jacob<br />
Facilitators: Gina<br />
Skilled Companion Dog Kale II<br />
Ohio<br />
Sharon Dunning & Jack<br />
Bernard<br />
Cincinnati, Ohio<br />
Daniel<br />
Successor Service Dog<br />
Michael III<br />
Ohio<br />
Mary Beth Morrow<br />
Blacklick, Ohio<br />
Sarah<br />
Facilitator: Kerry<br />
Skilled Companion Dog<br />
Latte<br />
Pennsylvania<br />
Judy & John Resop<br />
Fond du Lac, Wisconsin<br />
May <strong>2012</strong><br />
Ginny Addelman<br />
Blankenship Family<br />
Mary Freund<br />
Bobbe Fulton & Karen Pettus<br />
Hoggy’s Catering<br />
Indianapolis Volunteer Chapter<br />
Deb Krum<br />
Becky Rogers<br />
Ruth Snider<br />
Faith & Skip Walzak<br />
Mary & Don Weller<br />
TEAM TRAINING YEARBOOK<br />
Renee<br />
Successor Service Dog<br />
Suri II<br />
Arizona<br />
The Riley Family<br />
Glen Ellyn, Illinois<br />
Kristina<br />
Facilitator: Karen<br />
Skilled Companion Dog<br />
Twilight II<br />
Minnesota<br />
Erin Rach<strong>for</strong>d<br />
Springfield, Illinois<br />
Team Training Lunch Providers & Deliverers<br />
Joshua<br />
Successor Service Dog<br />
Fedara<br />
Minnesota<br />
Elizabeth Phalen<br />
Rock<strong>for</strong>d, Illinois<br />
July & August <strong>2012</strong><br />
The Blankenship Family<br />
Nancy & John Draper<br />
Mary Freund<br />
Celeste Grotsky<br />
Melody Kennedy<br />
Marty Marlatt<br />
Becky Rogers<br />
Susan Russell & Family<br />
Staicey Scholtz<br />
Roxanne Shull<br />
Cheryl & Ryan Shumaker<br />
Zachary<br />
Facilitator: Dana<br />
Skilled Companion Dog<br />
Freiert<br />
Illinois<br />
Ginny & Bob Harper<br />
Upper Arlington, Ohio<br />
The North Central Companion Autumn <strong>2012</strong> 5<br />
<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2012</strong> <strong>NewsletterDRAFT</strong>.<strong>indd</strong> 5 8/17/12 4:52 PM
AROUND THE REGION<br />
NCR Volunteer Chapters and Groups<br />
Central Indiana Chapter<br />
Nancee Wright<br />
t-n-wright@sbcglobal.net<br />
Dan O’Brien<br />
www.cci-indy.org<br />
Central Ohio Volunteer Group<br />
Jean Henry, NCR volunteer coordinator<br />
(740) 833-3703<br />
jhenry@cci.org<br />
Chicago Volunteer Group<br />
Debra Locander, NCR development<br />
associate<br />
(479) 372-4549<br />
dlocander@cci.org<br />
Cleveland Volunteer Group<br />
Jackie Stanton<br />
STNT214@aol.com<br />
Kansas City Chapter<br />
Charon Fisher<br />
kcchapter@puppyraisers.us<br />
(816) 943-8111<br />
Michigan Volunteer Group<br />
Fay Sneddon<br />
(734) 341-7565<br />
lilly3212002@yahoo.com<br />
Minneapolis/St. Paul Volunteer Group<br />
Jodi & Mark Laubersheimer<br />
(612) 940-0744<br />
mark@fastpcpros.com<br />
Penn-Ohio Volunteer Group<br />
Carolyn Hrach<br />
Carolyn.hrach@gmail.com<br />
Lori Barrante<br />
lbarrante@zoominternet.net<br />
Rock River Valley Volunteer Group<br />
Cari Berg<br />
(815) 997-3118<br />
dcberg1@frontier.com<br />
Wisconsin Volunteer Group<br />
Jean Henry, NCR volunteer coordinator<br />
jhenry@cci.org<br />
Dawn Vollbrecht<br />
(920) 779-0425<br />
wisconsincci-dogs@yahoo.com<br />
For more in<strong>for</strong>mation on events in<br />
your area and how you can become<br />
involved, please contact these chapter<br />
and group leaders.<br />
“<strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> is sincerely thankful <strong>for</strong> all of our<br />
contributors and supporters...” - Jean Henry, volunteer coordinator<br />
<strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> is so appreciative of all the North Central Region’s<br />
supporters <strong>for</strong> their generosity and thoughtfulness in helping our<br />
volunteers promote <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>’ mission. Space will not allow<br />
us to mention all our regional supporters and organizations so we have<br />
chosen to highlight just a few to give you an idea of the varied and<br />
remarkable types of support <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> receives throughout the<br />
regions’ communities. <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> is sincerely thankful <strong>for</strong> all of<br />
our contributors and supporters whether pictured or not.<br />
The Ohio State Veterinary School’s Omega<br />
Tau Sigma Fraternity holds a fun-filled<br />
event to benefit <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong><br />
at Flannagan’s restaurant where the<br />
attendees enter volleyball tournaments,<br />
purchase raffle tickets and have a chance<br />
to meet <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>’ dogs and<br />
volunteers. This year’s volunteers were<br />
Graduate Robyn Martin with Facility Dog<br />
Oceana, Connie and Bob Runk with <strong>Canine</strong><br />
<strong>Companions</strong>’ puppy Dare and volunteer<br />
Gwen Brooks.<br />
Naomi Bress<br />
Esther & Bud Brown<br />
Kathy Horvath<br />
Ellen Kaitz<br />
KC volunteer chapter<br />
Ladies Library Associates<br />
Kalamazoo, Michigan<br />
Meijer<br />
Felicia Montesarchio<br />
Alice Nicks<br />
Dean Nordin<br />
Karen Pettus & Bobbe<br />
Fulton<br />
Kathy Reinhardt<br />
The judges had a “ruff” time deciding on the<br />
costume winners at the Cleveland volunteer<br />
group’s first annual <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong><br />
DogFest featuring Snoopy® and Friends<br />
last October. However, the winner of the<br />
“Best Team Costume” contest was Ohio<br />
<strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>’ Graduate Lisa Marn<br />
(dressed as a flower) and her Service Dog<br />
Apana (dressed as a bee).<br />
Thank you <strong>for</strong> your in-kind donations and items from<br />
the Wish List!<br />
DeAnn & Karen Runge<br />
Scioto LLC<br />
Lydia Strauss<br />
Kathy Taylor<br />
Donna Violet<br />
Meg & David Williams<br />
6 <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> <strong>for</strong> Independence<br />
<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2012</strong> <strong>NewsletterDRAFT</strong>.<strong>indd</strong> 6 8/17/12 4:52 PM
The Kansas City volunteer chapter<br />
was invited by Advanced Financial<br />
Solutions to hold a fundraiser at<br />
the Rice Gallery in Kansas City<br />
last November raising $1,180 <strong>for</strong><br />
<strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>. Juliann Smith<br />
& Christina Lomas (co-owners of<br />
Advanced Financial Solutions and<br />
animal lovers), used their customer<br />
database to send invitations and<br />
organized the entire evening. The<br />
chapter is planning to do another<br />
art fundraiser November 1, <strong>2012</strong>.<br />
Chapter volunteers pictured are<br />
Sally Rosine, Sandy Groff, Charon<br />
Fisher, Debbie Sloan and Linda<br />
Charles.<br />
Graduate Pam Turner and Facility<br />
Dog Aragon participated in the<br />
Bark-<strong>for</strong>-Life event in Ellwood City,<br />
Pennsylvania. Bark-<strong>for</strong>-Life is a<br />
branch of the American Cancer<br />
Society’s Relay <strong>for</strong> Life. The weather<br />
was cold and wet so Pam and<br />
Aragon walked a short distance, but<br />
as always, gained more community<br />
awareness <strong>for</strong> <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>.<br />
Talk about teamwork! Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity of Grand Valley State<br />
University (GVSU) in Allendale, Michigan conducts an annual bike ride<br />
to benefit <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>. The fundraiser’s kickoff started at GVSU’s<br />
campus in April with <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>’ Southwest Michigan puppy<br />
raisers and Alpha Sigma Phi fraternity members answering questions about<br />
<strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>, distributing brochures and accepting donations.<br />
The actual Alpha Sigma Phi bike ride is the first week of May, when the<br />
riders leave Allendale and arrive in Chicago, Illinois. At the end of the<br />
ride, volunteers from the Chicago volunteer group hold a congratulatory<br />
dinner <strong>for</strong> the bikers and provide an overnight place to stay. This year<br />
the fraternity raised over $15,000 <strong>for</strong> <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>! A heartfelt<br />
thank you goes to the Alpha Sigma Phi fraternity <strong>for</strong> their time, ef<strong>for</strong>ts<br />
and generosity and the southwest Michigan volunteers and Chicago area<br />
volunteers <strong>for</strong> their support and contributions to the event!<br />
AROUND THE REGION<br />
Minnesota puppy raiser Lois Bauer<br />
and a few friends at Cross Winds<br />
United Methodist Church spent<br />
three Sunday mornings talking<br />
to Sunday school classes about<br />
<strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> and assistance<br />
dogs. <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>’ puppy<br />
Balu per<strong>for</strong>med some commands<br />
and Lois read a story of a young<br />
boy and his assistance dog. The<br />
children made and sold fleece dog<br />
toys and dog biscuits and accepted<br />
“farewell-to-Balu” donations<br />
be<strong>for</strong>e Balu headed to the North<br />
Central Region <strong>for</strong> professional<br />
training. These activities gave all<br />
the children an understanding of<br />
<strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> and were a<br />
fun way to raise money <strong>for</strong> a good<br />
cause. Pictured the last day of the<br />
fundraiser are Mary Le Loper, her<br />
daughter Shane and Terri Kemp.<br />
For the fifth year, Chicago area<br />
volunteers participated in a<br />
fundraiser to benefit <strong>Canine</strong><br />
<strong>Companions</strong> at the Wheeling,<br />
Illinois TGIFriday’s restaurant.<br />
Between 10% of the restaurant’s<br />
proceeds and general donations<br />
the event raised $1,400!<br />
The North Central Companion Autumn <strong>2012</strong> 7<br />
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PUPPY RAISER NOTEBOOK<br />
North Central Region staff would like to thank all the volunteer puppy<br />
raisers who have recently turned puppies in <strong>for</strong> professional training:<br />
MAY <strong>2012</strong> PUPPY TURN-INS AUGUST <strong>2012</strong> PUPPY TURN-INS<br />
BISHOP II; Repeat Puppy Raiser Staicey Scholtz, Vermilion, OH<br />
BRISTOL III; Repeat Puppy Raiser Dean Nordin, Woodstock, IL<br />
CORY II; Repeat Puppy Raiser Mickie Lesko, Columbus, OH<br />
GANDALF III; Repeat Puppy Raiser Julia Havey, Downers Grove, IL<br />
GUNNER II; Repeat Puppy Raisers Linda & Alex Cleveland, Zionsville, IN<br />
HAWKEYE II; Repeat Puppy Raisers Linda & Jeff Saunders, Pittsborro, IN<br />
JADA IV; Repeat Puppy Raiser Roxanne Shull, Grove City, OH<br />
JAMAL II; Puppy Raiser Marty Garner, Pataskala, OH<br />
KENT III; Repeat Puppy Raiser Mary Huels, Steward, IL<br />
MAGNUM II; Puppy Raiser Jennifer Cicora, Westerville, OH<br />
MAUDE III; Repeat Puppy Raiser Elizabeth Hager, Dublin, OH<br />
NASHVILLE III; Repeat Puppy Raisers Marty & Dave Carvour, London, OH<br />
NIGHT II; Repeat Puppy Raisers Stephanie & Andrew Moore, Neosho, WI<br />
NIKITA III; Repeat Puppy Raisers The Kiehl Family, Delaware, OH<br />
NORDIC III; Repeat Puppy Raiser Jim Litchfield, Lake Forest, IL<br />
PEDRO; Repeat Puppy Raiser Kristin Buchheit, Indianapolis, IN<br />
PIKE; Repeat Puppy Raisers Judy & John Belcik, Palos Heights, IL<br />
RADCLIFF; Repeat Puppy Raiser Stacy Combs, Lincoln, NE<br />
RAIVE II; Repeat Puppy Raiser Karen Pitsenbarger, Moorehead, MN<br />
RENADA; Repeat Puppy Raiser Chris Iams, Westerville, OH<br />
RUBIE; Repeat Puppy Raisers Jill Goldman & Linda Falzone, Winnebago, IL<br />
TANIS; Repeat Puppy Raisers Nancy & Marilyn Butler, Monroe, OH<br />
TEVA II; Repeat Puppy Raiser Dee Appelman, Stevensville, MI<br />
TILDEN II; Repeat Puppy Raiser Daryn Violet, Sunbury, OH<br />
TREVOR IV; Repeat Puppy Raisers Brandt Carter & Steven Pearson,<br />
Indianapolis, IN<br />
VICKIE; Repeat Puppy Raiser Carolyn Hrach, Pittsburgh, PA<br />
VITO III; Repeat Puppy Raiser Lori Barrante, Wex<strong>for</strong>d, PA<br />
Interested in becoming a puppy raiser?<br />
Email Suzanne@cci.org or<br />
call (740) 833-3711<br />
<strong>for</strong> more in<strong>for</strong>mation<br />
CAPELLA; Repeat Puppy Raiser Ross Correctional Institution, Chillicothe, OH<br />
CHARLIE IV; Puppy Raisers Gloria Pharr & Camryn, Omaha, NE<br />
CLARK III; Repeat Puppy Raiser Sandy Groff, Overland Park, KS<br />
COLUMBIA; Puppy Raiser Sara Carlston, Columbus, OH<br />
DARLING; Repeat Puppy Raisers Pam & Michael Wright, Blue Springs, MO<br />
DONNY; Puppy Raisers Blair Roberts & Eve, Independence, MO<br />
FIDO; Repeat Puppy Raiser Ross Correctional Institution, Chillicothe, OH<br />
FRANKLIN II; Repeat Puppy Raisers Michelle Davin & Randy Ackman,<br />
Cedar Rapids, IA<br />
HARKIN; Repeat Puppy Raiser Ross Correctional Institution, Chillicothe, OH<br />
HAVASU II; Repeat Puppy Raisers Nancy & John Draper, Columbus, OH<br />
HERBIE; Repeat Puppy Raiser Donna Violet, Sunbury, OH<br />
HOGAN III; Puppy Raisers The Wonder Family, Moon Township, PA<br />
JAFAR; Repeat Puppy Raisers Alison & David Viemeister, Janesville, WI<br />
JALEEN; Puppy Raisers The Weiss Family, Pittsburgh, PA<br />
LEGEND IV; Repeat Puppy Raisers Dianne & John Bittikofer, Huntingdon, PA<br />
ORELLA; Repeat Puppy Raiser Charon Fisher, Kansas City, MO<br />
PRESLEY III; Repeat Puppy Raisers Tracy & Seth Pearch, Delaware, OH<br />
SHELTON III; Repeat Puppy Raiser Pam Chelf, Indianapolis, IN<br />
STEEL; Repeat Puppy Raiser Rebecca Rogers, Upper Arlington, OH<br />
TIVO II; Puppy Raiser Kathy Guerrero, Auburn Hills, MI<br />
TUCCI; Repeat Puppy Raisers Bonnie & Steve Brehm, Hamilton, OH<br />
WALTZER; Repeat Puppy Raiser Lyne Kauffman, Canonsburg, PA<br />
WISH; Repeat Puppy Raisers Melissa & Randy Roberts, Heath, OH<br />
YAXLEY; Repeat Puppy Raisers Donna & Don Sword, Clayton, OH<br />
YODA III; Puppy Raisers Erika & Kenneth Agans, Washington, IL<br />
Preparing <strong>for</strong> Puppies<br />
Whether you have just embarked on the rewarding volunteer<br />
experience of puppy raising a future <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>’ assistance<br />
dog or adopted a family pet from a local shelter, there are several<br />
universal tips <strong>for</strong> preparing <strong>for</strong> a new puppy.<br />
House Rules: Be<strong>for</strong>e the puppy even arrives sit down with all members<br />
of the household to set rules <strong>for</strong> the puppy. It is important that the<br />
puppy doesn’t get mixed messages from different family members.<br />
Consistency is key!<br />
Puppy Proofing: This is essential – both inside the house and out in<br />
the yard. Make sure the puppy will not be able to reach anything it<br />
should not have - shoes, socks, electric cords, plants, sprinklers, tools,<br />
fertilizers and important papers to name a few! Set your puppy up <strong>for</strong><br />
success by not tempting it with these “off-limits” items.<br />
Daily Routine: Your daily routine with the puppy is very important –<br />
raising a puppy takes a lot of time and energy. Make sure to set aside<br />
ample time in your daily schedule <strong>for</strong> exercising, training, feeding and<br />
grooming the puppy.<br />
Veterinary Care: Be sure to locate a veterinarian and an emergency<br />
clinic near your home. Keep their numbers handy and make sure the<br />
puppy stays up-to-date on all vaccinations and preventatives.<br />
Last, but not least, whether you will be raising a <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>’<br />
puppy until returning it <strong>for</strong> training or welcoming a new pet into<br />
your family <strong>for</strong> many, many years – remember to relax and have fun!<br />
8 <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> <strong>for</strong> Independence<br />
<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2012</strong> <strong>NewsletterDRAFT</strong>.<strong>indd</strong> 8 8/17/12 4:52 PM
ARTHUR IV; Puppy Raisers Diane & Ernie Rosenthal, Germantown, WI<br />
AURORA IV; Repeat Puppy Raisers Dianne & John Bittikofer, Huntingdon, PA<br />
BACCHUS; Repeat Puppy Raisers Corinne & John Worzalla, Indianapolis, IN<br />
BARON III; Repeat Puppy Raisers The Wright Family, Fishers, IN<br />
BLAIR IV; Repeat Puppy Raisers Marcia & Gary Buechel, Ashley, OH<br />
BOOKER II; Puppy Raiser Patsy Gammack, Columbia, KY<br />
CHAI; Puppy Raiser Patty Via, Vermilion, OH<br />
CHILI; Repeat Puppy Raiser Staicey Scholtz, Vermilion, OH<br />
CLEMENTINE IV; Repeat Puppy Raiser Julie Havey, Downers Grove, IL<br />
DEBBIE IV; Repeat Puppy Raiser Charon Fisher, Kansas City, MO<br />
DIESEL II; Repeat Puppy Raisers The Collins Family, Powell, OH<br />
DOYLE II; Puppy Raiser Denise Reilly, Vernon Hills, IL<br />
GIDGET IV; Repeat Puppy Raisers Linda & Alex Cleveland, Zionsville, IN<br />
GRATON III; Puppy Raiser Todd Davis, Traverse City, MI<br />
HANA II; Repeat Puppy Raiser Roxanne Shull, Grove City, OH<br />
HARLAN II; Repeat Puppy Raiser Lori Barrante, Wex<strong>for</strong>d, PA<br />
HENRY V; Repeat Puppy Raisers The Baker Family, Little Hocking, OH<br />
HERMIONE II; Repeat Puppy Raiser Jill Goldman, Winnebago, IL<br />
HUD II; Puppy Raisers Heidi & Michael Stoinski, Lindenhurst, IL<br />
JAL; Puppy Raisers Michele & Jeff Sorvik, Duluth, MN<br />
JASPER IV; Puppy Raiser Darlene Long, Spring Creek,PA<br />
JED IV; Repeat Puppy Raiser Stacy Combs, Lincoln, NE<br />
JUPITER IV; Repeat Puppy Raisers Marty & Dave Carvour, London, OH<br />
KAYSEN II; Repeat Puppy Raisers Karen & Laura Stenmark, Crystal Lake, IL<br />
KINDY II; Repeat Puppy Raiser Sandy Groff, Overland Park, KS<br />
KLAPP; Repeat Puppy Raisers Sharon Dunning & Jack Bernard, Cincinnati, OH<br />
LOTTO; Repeat Puppy Raiser Daryn Violet, Sunbury, OH<br />
LYLE IV; Repeat Puppy Raisers Jane & Dan Barber, Libertyville, IL<br />
MARLA III; Repeat Puppy Raiser Donna Schulte, Medina, OH<br />
Recent Puppy Placements<br />
Raise a puppy, change a life.<br />
Raising one Miracle at a Time - <strong>for</strong> 23 years!<br />
Marty Carvour of London, Ohio, knows a thing or two about puppies. The North<br />
Central Region’s most prolific puppy raiser, Marty is currently raising her 32nd puppy<br />
<strong>for</strong> <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>. And she has no plans to stop any time soon.<br />
Marty, her husband Dave and their children have been involved with <strong>Canine</strong><br />
<strong>Companions</strong> since 1989 when they received the first of many <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>’<br />
puppies they would raise. “When we brought lovable, furry Olema home we didn’t<br />
know what God had in mind <strong>for</strong> us,” recalls Marty. “Now 23 years later we are still<br />
raising puppies and enjoying it more, one or two miracles at a time.”<br />
Keeping in touch with many of the graduates who have the dogs she raised is what<br />
motivates Marty as a puppy raiser. “I’ve seen firsthand how much the graduates depend<br />
on their dogs,” she says. “That fuels my passion to raise more and more pups. God gave<br />
us the ability to raise puppies and I am using it to pass a gift on to others in need.”<br />
As all puppy raisers know, graduation is a bittersweet time, but Marty sees it as the<br />
best part of the process. Be<strong>for</strong>e the graduation ceremony, all puppy raisers are given<br />
time with the graduating dog that they raised in order to say their final good-byes. They<br />
will then hand the dogs’ leashes over to their new partners during the ceremony. Marty<br />
relishes those last few moments with “her” pups. “While we are taking pictures and<br />
enjoying each other’s company, I notice a look in the dog’s eye—something is missing.<br />
Only a puppy raiser knows that look,” she says. “When the dog sees his person, his tail<br />
starts wagging uncontrollably. Now you know what was missing—their new partner.<br />
And with one last look, ‘your’ pup turns and walks away with his new family.”<br />
The Carvour family plans to raise puppies <strong>for</strong> many years to come. According to Marty,<br />
“Puppy raising never gets old or boring. I continue to be amazed that the little eight<br />
week old puppy that comes into our life grows into a handsome, well-trained dog that<br />
will carry on a <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>’ tradition <strong>for</strong> my family into the future.”<br />
PUPPY RAISER NOTEBOOK<br />
MELBA II; Puppy Raiser Bonnie Sweebe, Strongsville, OH<br />
MITCHELL IV; Repeat Puppy Raiser Linda Maugle, Charleroi, PA<br />
MONTEGO; Repeat Puppy Raisers Sandra & James Globa, Erie, PA<br />
MURDOCK III; Repeat Puppy Raisers Cheri & Larry Stratton, Richland, MI<br />
MYRON; Repeat Puppy Raiser Elizabeth Hague, Indianapolis, IN<br />
OBERLIN II; Repeat Puppy Raisers Alison & David Viemeister, Janesville, WI<br />
ODLE; Repeat Puppy Raiser Dean Nordin, Woodstock, IL<br />
OREGON IV; Repeat Puppy Raiser Dee Appelman, Stevensville, MI<br />
ORLA III; Repeat Puppy Raiser Bonnie Dumas, Austintown, OH<br />
RAYMOND II; Repeat Puppy Raiser Vicki Simons, Bristolville, OH<br />
ROAM; Repeat Puppy Raisers Nannette & Nathan Kinney, Fishers, IN<br />
ROMA III; Repeat Puppy Raisers Tanya Dedyo & Erin, Columbus, OH<br />
ROMEY; Repeat Puppy Raiser Kristin Buchheit, Indianapolis, IN<br />
ROYCE II; Puppy Raisers The Hanagan Family, Avon, IN<br />
RUMI; Repeat Puppy Raiser Sara Carlston, Columbus, OH<br />
SALETTE; Puppy Raisers Cathy Smith & Bill Gresham, Dublin, OH<br />
SAXBY; Repeat Puppy Raiser Sharon Sipp, Galva, IL<br />
TAVIE; Repeat Puppy Raisers Gail & Reynolds Farley, Ann Arbor, MI<br />
TAYLEE; Puppy Raiser Denise Matis-Marks, Valencia, PA<br />
TEAGAN III; Repeat Puppy Raisers Joyce & Gordon Spainhower, Columbia, MO<br />
TOTO; Puppy Raiser Kristi Blubaugh, Danville, OH<br />
TSUNAMI II; Puppy Raisers Chris & Robert Cooperman, Delaware, OH<br />
TURNER II; Repeat Puppy Raisers Beth & Randy Schroeder, Kalamazoo, MI<br />
WALDO III; Puppy Raiser Christine Oberg, Wooster, OH<br />
WANDA VI; Repeat Puppy Raiser Yolanda Gonzales, Tiffin, OH<br />
YELLER II; Repeat Puppy Raiser Betsy Jones, Delaware, OH<br />
YODER II; Repeat Puppy Raiser Teresa Buchheit, Chesterton, IN<br />
“Puppy raising never gets<br />
old or boring. I continue<br />
to be amazed...”<br />
- Marty Carvour, puppy raiser<br />
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<strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> DogFest<br />
Six cities around the North Central Region will host <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> DogFest<br />
events this October. The events consist of a pledged walk with trick-or-treat<br />
stops, great raffle items and a costume contest <strong>for</strong> both humans and dogs. <strong>Canine</strong><br />
<strong>Companions</strong>’ graduates, volunteers, friends and supporters will gather in Dublin<br />
and Strongsville, Ohio; Northville, Michigan; Naperville, Illinois; Carmel, Indiana;<br />
and Venetia, Pennsylvania <strong>for</strong> fun and a little exercise while raising funds <strong>for</strong> a<br />
great cause.<br />
The Cleveland volunteer group raised approximately $5,000 through the Strongsville<br />
<strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> DogFest in 2011. Jeff Lawson, assistant leader of the group,<br />
spearheaded their ef<strong>for</strong>ts. “I am joined by a terrific group of volunteers whose<br />
enthusiasm and passion <strong>for</strong> <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> makes the Strongsville <strong>Canine</strong><br />
<strong>Companions</strong> DogFest a fun and rewarding event,” he said. “Last year everyone had<br />
a great time and we’re looking <strong>for</strong>ward to making it even bigger and better in <strong>2012</strong>!”<br />
Last year, the North Central Region raised nearly $30,000 in donations from four<br />
DogFest events. Those funds went directly towards fulfilling <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>’<br />
mission of providing highly trained assistance dogs and ongoing support to ensure<br />
quality partnerships. Please consider attending one of this year’s events.<br />
Dublin, Ohio: October 13 - www.cci.org/DublinDogFest<br />
Northville, Michigan: October 14 - www.cci.org/MichiganDogFest<br />
Naperville, Illinois: October 20 - www.cci.org/ChicagoDogFest<br />
Carmel, Indiana: October 20 - www.cci.org/IndianapolisDogFest<br />
Strongsville, Ohio: October 21 - www.cci.org/StrongsvilleDogFest<br />
Venetia, Pennsylvania: October 27 - www.cci.org/PittsburghDogFest<br />
Making Miracles Happen<br />
<strong>2012</strong> Sponsors include:<br />
The Beth and Russ Siegelman<br />
Family Foundation, Manheim Ohio,<br />
AEP, Meijer, CentiMark - Tim and Teri<br />
Dunlap, Hook Rehabilitation Center,<br />
MetLife Home and Auto, Wolfe<br />
Enterprises, Inc. and WTHR-TV.<br />
Miracles happen one placement at a time at <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>. The realization of each miracle takes place four times a year<br />
at a graduation ceremony when the newly bonded and trained teams start their venture together. Making these miracles happen<br />
takes time and money. <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>’ recipients receive the dogs free of charge; <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> incurs the cost of<br />
each placement, which is $45,000 from the birth of the dog through retirement of the team. A recent Making Miracles Happen<br />
fundraising breakfast held in Columbus, Ohio resulted in friends and funds raised to allow the organization to continue to<br />
place Exceptional Dogs <strong>for</strong> Exceptional People®.<br />
“They really know how to make a perfect team” -Amy Frick, Skilled Companion Facilitator<br />
Many graduates will tell you the most anticipated part of Team Training is preliminary<br />
placement – the day they find out which dog they have been matched with.<br />
The first few days of Team Training, graduates work with several different dogs and the<br />
instructors observe their interactions with each one. The instructors also keep in mind the<br />
unique circumstances, lifestyles and abilities of each recipient – all things they learn during<br />
the application process. One graduate explains, “The interview process is long, but besides<br />
being a screening tool, it helps the instructors get to know you and learn what your needs<br />
are so they can match you with a dog whose temperament will enable you and your dog<br />
to be a successful team.”<br />
Be<strong>for</strong>e placement the instructors meet to discuss the dogs’ strengths and weaknesses along<br />
with the recipients’ needs and then make their decision – dogs are not trained <strong>for</strong> a particular<br />
student prior to Team Training nor are students able to choose a certain dog on their own.<br />
The training room is filled with excitement and emotion as preliminary placements begin.<br />
The instructors announce their decisions and the dogs’ leashes are handed over to their new<br />
handlers. “When it comes to training and matching life partners, in my opinion, no one does<br />
it better than <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>,” shares graduate Amy Beth Chally.<br />
10 <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> <strong>for</strong> Independence<br />
<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2012</strong> <strong>NewsletterDRAFT</strong>.<strong>indd</strong> 10 8/17/12 4:52 PM
2013 Graduation Dates<br />
Experience the impact of your donation by<br />
attending a <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>’<br />
graduation ceremony!<br />
Friday, February 15, 2013<br />
Friday, May 17, 2013<br />
Friday, August 16, 2013<br />
Friday, November 8, 2013<br />
Hard-Working Dogs<br />
Donate with Confidence!<br />
Charity Navigator, America’s premier charity evaluator, highlights the<br />
fine work of efficient, ethical and open charities to provide donors with<br />
the essential in<strong>for</strong>mation needed to give them greater confidence in the<br />
charitable choices they make.<br />
<strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> has achieved the coveted 4-star Charity Navigator<br />
rating <strong>for</strong> sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability<br />
and transparency. Approximately one-quarter of the charities evaluated<br />
by Charity Navigator receive the 4-star rating, indicating that <strong>Canine</strong><br />
<strong>Companions</strong> outper<strong>for</strong>ms most other charities in America. The 4-star<br />
rating designation differentiates <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> from its peers and<br />
demonstrates to the public that it is worthy of their trust and donations.<br />
To learn about the many ways you can support <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> visit<br />
http://www.cci.org/donate or simply return the included remittance envelope<br />
with your contribution.<br />
Celebrated each October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month was created<br />
by Congress to increase the public’s knowledge of disability employment issues, as well as<br />
to celebrate the contributions of American workers who have disabilities.<br />
<strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>’ service dogs are one tool that people with disabilities can use to<br />
increase their productivity in the work place. Because of their ability to manage everyday<br />
obstacles on their own, many <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>’ graduates are able to pursue careers in<br />
the field of their choice. Recent graduates are employed as lawyers, doctors, accountants<br />
and psychologists, just to name a few.<br />
Bill Downs of Homer Glen, Illinois, is the founder and owner of WS&S Medical. He<br />
received Service Dog Garrison in November 2010. Garrison assists Bill in all aspects of<br />
his day, including office duties. “Garrison has learned to deliver items to two different<br />
individuals directly to their desks,” says Bill. “He also helps me by picking up items I<br />
drop on the floor.” Having a <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>’ service dog helps Bill focus his time and<br />
energy on business instead of his disability. Garrison has become a fixture at Bill’s office.<br />
“Everyone is amazed by his excellent behavior and obedience. Clients now request that I<br />
bring Garrison to appointments!” reports Bill.<br />
Don Weller, a psychologist in Bloomington, Indiana, takes Service Dog Lorenzo II to work<br />
every day. In addition to picking up items and opening doors, Lorenzo II also assists Don<br />
in working with his clients. Lorenzo II brings a calming presence to the sometimes difficult<br />
environments that Don visits to meet with clients. Don has also seen Lorenzo II act as<br />
a motivator and icebreaker. “The younger folks I meet with look more <strong>for</strong>ward to seeing<br />
Lorenzo II than seeing me, but I don’t take this too personally!” says Don.<br />
Sarah Louise Walker of Indianapolis, Indiana, takes Service Dog Hepburn to her office at<br />
WTHR-TV. “Hepburn helps me carry items so that my hands are free to push my chair,”<br />
says Sarah. “If it weren’t <strong>for</strong> her, I would have to ask all the time <strong>for</strong> someone to get the<br />
things I drop under my desk.” Sarah reports that Hepburn is very popular around the<br />
office: “All of my coworkers love her.” Sarah encourages other working adults who have<br />
a disability to consider getting a service dog. “It will make your life so much easier not<br />
having to depend on other people <strong>for</strong> everything,” she says.<br />
The North Central Companion Autumn <strong>2012</strong> 11<br />
<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2012</strong> <strong>NewsletterDRAFT</strong>.<strong>indd</strong> 11 8/17/12 4:52 PM
North Central Board of Directors<br />
John Elliott, Sr. - Board President<br />
Carolyn Hrach - Board Vice-President<br />
Todd Bailey<br />
Tom Flynn<br />
Jeff Greene<br />
Alice Ingram<br />
Nancy Riggs<br />
Rex Riggs, D.V.M.<br />
Peter Schwab<br />
Veterinary & Professional Support<br />
Best Friends Animal Clinic<br />
Rex Riggs, D.V.M.<br />
Green Meadows<br />
Veterinary Hospital<br />
Jo Ann Buehner, D.V.M.<br />
Matt Frost, D.V.M.<br />
Alison Skala, D.V.M.<br />
Danielle Badamine, D.V.M.<br />
Brad A. Titchenell, D.V.M.<br />
MedVet<br />
Milton Wyman, D.V.M.<br />
Dawn Filko, R.V.T.<br />
Beechwold Veterinary Hospital<br />
Mark McCloskey, D.V.M.<br />
North Central Office<br />
North Central Regional Center<br />
4989 State Route 37 East<br />
Delaware, OH 43015-9682<br />
(740) 833-3700 Voice/TTY<br />
(740) 363-0555 Fax<br />
Other Office Locations<br />
Corey Hudson, Chief Executive Officer<br />
National Headquarters<br />
Northwest Regional Center<br />
2965 Dutton Avenue, PO Box 446<br />
Santa Rosa, CA 95402-0446<br />
(707) 577-1700 Voice<br />
(707) 577-1756 TTY<br />
Northeast Regional Center<br />
286 Middle Island Road<br />
Med<strong>for</strong>d, NY 11763-1521<br />
(631) 561-0200 Voice/TTY<br />
Southeast Regional Center<br />
8150 Clarcona Ocoee Road<br />
Orlando, FL 32818<br />
(407) 522-3300 Voice<br />
Southwest Regional Center<br />
124 Rancho del Oro Road<br />
Oceanside, CA 92057<br />
(760) 901-4300 Voice<br />
(760) 901-4326 TTY<br />
Colorado Satellite Office<br />
126 East Las Animas Street<br />
Colorado Springs, CO 80907<br />
(719) 260-6151 Voice<br />
Visit www.cci.org and click on<br />
‘subscribe to e-communications’ to receive<br />
monthly updates from your region.<br />
Follow us on Facebook & Twitter<br />
Credits<br />
North Central Companion is published two times<br />
a year <strong>for</strong> distribution to <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong><br />
supporters, volunteers and graduates. ©<strong>2012</strong> <strong>Canine</strong><br />
<strong>Companions</strong> <strong>for</strong> Independence, Inc. All rights<br />
reserved. Printed in USA. <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong><br />
<strong>for</strong> Independence ® , its logo, and Exceptional Dogs<br />
<strong>for</strong> Exceptional People ® are trademarks of <strong>Canine</strong><br />
<strong>Companions</strong> <strong>for</strong> Independence, Inc.<br />
Address Service Requested<br />
Dated Material - Please Expedite<br />
Non-Profit Org.<br />
U.S. Postage<br />
PAID<br />
Delaware, OH 43015<br />
Permit No. 4989<br />
“This is a fun and easy program to implement in any school.”<br />
Michigan puppy raiser Kathy Guerrero and <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>’ puppy<br />
Tivo II have taken the “Dog Days of Reading” to a whole new level.<br />
Kathy works <strong>for</strong> the Avondale School District in northern Detroit and<br />
has spearheaded a reading program in the district’s Deerfield Elementary<br />
School to benefit <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>. The program had three goals: 1) raise<br />
money and awareness <strong>for</strong> <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong> 2) encourage the children<br />
to read and 3) educate children about disabilities and community service.<br />
During the program children grades K-5 kept weekly reading logs and<br />
received pledge money <strong>for</strong> their amount of reading. At the fundraiser’s end,<br />
prizes were awarded <strong>for</strong> the top readers in each class, second place readers<br />
and to the school’s top reader. Overall the program was a great success.<br />
Not only did the children learn about <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>, disabilities<br />
and community service, but they found themselves enjoying reading more.<br />
And on top of all that, they also raised $2,388.95 <strong>for</strong> <strong>Canine</strong> <strong>Companions</strong>!<br />
Schools are always looking <strong>for</strong> ways <strong>for</strong> their students to become more<br />
involved in the community and to learn more about disabilities - this is a<br />
fun and easy program to implement in any school. If you are interested<br />
in learning more about implementing all or part of this fun program,<br />
please contact volunteer coordinator Jean Henry at jhenry@cci.org or<br />
(740) 833-3703.<br />
<strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2012</strong> <strong>NewsletterDRAFT</strong>.<strong>indd</strong> 12 8/17/12 4:52 PM
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