Events

The Puppy Den Challenge – Guide Dogs of the Desert – April 26 – May 31, 2023

Palm Springs Mayor Presents Proclamation to Guide Dogs of the Desert Declaring Wednesday, April 26, to be International Guide Dog Day

At a morning ceremony, Palm Springs Mayor, the Honorable Grace Garner, presented a Proclamation to Guide Dogs of the Desert declaring it International Guide Dog Day. Mayor Garner presented the Proclamation to Richard Clapp, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Guide Dogs of the Desert. A group, including board members, donors, alumni, and staff were in attendance to celebrate the occasion. They were joined by the true stars of the day, two guide dogs in training, two poodle puppies who are beginning their guide dog journey, and Ira, who graduated in February of this year and is now a working Guide Dog.

A highlight of the celebration was the announcement of a challenge fundraising campaign organized with the generous support of the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation. Catharine N. Reed, Vice President – Charitable Programs for the Foundation, made the announcement in recognition of International Guide Dog Day. Through May 31, 2023, the Berger Foundation is matching every donation dollar for dollar, up to $30,000, to make improvements to the Puppy Den at Guide Dogs of the Desert.

There are currently 20,291 guide dogs working worldwide. This means that 20,291 people who are visually impaired or blind are living a more independent life thanks to the support of a guide dog. In the United States today, approximately 12 million people over the age of 40 have vision impairment. International Guide Dog Day has been celebrated around the world on the last Wednesday in April since 1992.

ABOUT GUIDE DOGS OF THE DESERT

Founded in 1972 in Palm Springs, Guide Dogs of the Desert is a non-profit organization that provides mobility, companionship and independence to individuals who are visually impaired or blind with custom-trained Guide Dogs. The Guide Dogs are provided at no cost to the clients. Guide Dogs of the Desert is fully accredited by the International Guide Dog Federation.

 

The Puppy Den Challenge

https://gddca.networkforgood.com/projects/191506-international-guide-dog-day-puppy-den-fundraiser?utm_campaign=dms_email_blast_2544371

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