PDF - Can Do Canines
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PDF - Can Do Canines
Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota ails T FROM MINNESOTA For Friends of Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota Winter 2009 Vol. 20 Issue 1 In 1988, Lucky, pictured above, was the first dog we adopted from an animal shelter. She was homeless and was scheduled to be euthanized that day. Lucky served as our demonstration dog for 11 years. She is symbolic of our commitment to save homeless dogs while fulfilling our mission to serve people with disabilities. A New Beginning Emily Cox and Mason by Laurie Carlson Emily Cox of Minnetonka, Minn., is a young adult determined to be independent and to move forward into a promising future. Emily was born with ataxia and neuropathy. She also has a mitochondrial metabolic disorder. The conditions are progressive; by fifth grade, Emily was using a wheelchair. Her balance is unsteady, she tires easily, and she has chronic pain. Nevertheless, friends and family describe her as upbeat and highly motivated. During high school, Emily wanted to prepare herself to live independently. A friend saw a working team from Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota at a mall. The friend suggested that Emily contact the organization about getting a dog of her own. In 2007, she was paired with Service Dog, Rookie, but unfortunately From the Executive Director........... 2 Celebrating 20 Years...................... 3 Jeanne Wiger & Baffin.................... 3 Alex Cracraft & Windy..................... 4 Wanda Viellieux & Redford.............. 4 Legacy Club................................... 5 In The News.................................... 5 Development News......................... 8 Steve Sletten & Rhett...................... 9 New Staff Member.......................... 9 Cindy Murphy & Marley..................10 Volunteer Spotlight........................10 Lindsey Hjerpe & Rosco.................11 Go Green!......................................12 Mason had many tasks to learn to help Emily. He retrieves her shoes when she’s preparing to leave the house, and he picks up dropped items. In an emergency, he’s trained to get help or a phone. He braces himself to help Emily go from sitting to standing up. Mason also learned the command ‘tug’ to pull off clothing such as socks and gloves. He also tugs the door shut when they leave the house. Emily and Mason Rookie was retired in 2008 due to a behavior problem. Despite the disappointment of having to retire Rookie, Emily knew she wanted another Service Dog to help her remain independent. She was quickly paired with Mason, a yellow Labrador retriever. The two dogs have very different temperaments, and Emily had to relearn how to work as a team with a new dog. Rookie was quick and excitable; Mason has a calmer and more easygoing temperament. “I like Mason. He’s fun and goofy because he’s still young,” Emily says. “He’s calm and takes his time. He’s a thinker.” Emily says she enjoyed her new beginning with Mason as a teammate. “I like encouraging him and giving him lots of praise,” she says. “Mason is a typical Labrador, who is a big fan of food and lots of attention!” www.hsdm.org Now that training is done, Emily encourages others to get a Service Dog. “You get so much more than you expect,” she says. “A dog gives so much love back to you. I wouldn’t trade the experience for anything. It’s really worthwhile.” She says the most important part of having Mason is “the companionship and independence he gives me. I feel secure with him around.”Y Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota uses a variety of mixed breed and purebred dogs in our training. We have had great success with donated labs, like Mason, and are thankful for breeders like the Mosers who support our work. To learn more about donating a dog or puppy, visit our website at www.hsdm.org. THOSE WHO MADE THIS PLACEMENT POSSIBLE Dog Source Charlene and Jerome Moser Charm Labradors Veterinary Services Valley View Pet Hospital Puppy Raisers The Scott Family Freedom Independence Peace of Mind From the Executive Director Volume 20 Issue 1 Al Peters & Rosie Looking Back: Our 20 Year! I am proud to announce that, during 2009, we at Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota are celebrating our 20th year of service to the community! In February 1989 we certified Annie, our first fully trained Hearing Dog, for graduate Marcy Bury. Annie was a terrier mix that I adopted from Minneapolis Animal Control (sometimes called “the pound.”) That was the beginning of a long, exciting process of building the organization and of training and placing more and more assistance dogs each year. th More than 270 assistance dog teams have graduated since our beginnings, and the organization has grown from only me, working part-time out of the spare bedroom in my home, to our current staff of 16 squeezed into our 7,000-square-foot training and kennel facility in Minneapolis. Throughout this year, we will have numerous opportunities for you to join in the celebration of our 20th year. Watch for updates on our Web site and in future issues of Tails from Minnesota. Marcy and Annie Planning for the Future We have seen many changes during these last 19 years, so it is appropriate that, as we enter our 20th year of service, we prepare for even more changes in the organization. For some time, we have been searching for a 2 permanent home for the organization, and I believe we have finally found it. Although the T’s are not crossed, and the I’s are not dotted, I am certain that we will move into our own permanent facility during 2009! This decision is a bold move and it has not been made lightly. In fact, our Board of Directors and staff have listened to our clients, carefully planned and considered every possibility. We have determined together that it is time for us to take this next step. Part of the process of making the new facility a reality involves embarking on a capital campaign to raise the money to pay for the property and make the many improvements necessary to turn it into a state-of-the-art training and kennel facility. Without the support of our volunteers and contributors, we never could have come so far these first 20 years. I am confident that with your continued help, we will complete the capital campaign and provide the infrastructure necessary to train more--and even better--assistance dogs for people who have disabilities. I will need the help of many people to complete this process, and I hope you will help us in any way you can. Feel free to contact me with your thoughts and ideas. 2009—An Uncertain New Year In the December 2008 publication, Nonprofit Current Conditions Report, the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits revealed that, of 660 nonprofit organizations surveyed in December, more than half experienced a decline in revenue during 2008 and 47 percent noted a reduction in individual contributions. Consequently, many organizations are putting expansion plans on hold or eliminating staff positions precisely at a time when more services are needed in the community. At Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota, we have seen some of the effects of the downturn in the economy, as well as higher postage and gasoline (continued on page 8) Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota Tails From Minnesota Published quarterly for friends and supporters of Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota Editor/Layout/Design Alan M. Peters Sue Schuster Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for people who are deaf, hard of hearing or disabled by creating mutually beneficial partnerships with specially trained dogs. We envision a future in which every person who needs and wants an assistance dog can have one. Hearing Dogs are adopted from local animal shelters, placed with deaf or hard-of-hearing clients and specially trained to alert clients to important sounds in their environment. Service Dogs are trained to help people with physical disabilities by pulling their wheelchairs, picking up or carrying objects, opening doors, flipping light switches and performing other daily tasks. Dogs, training and supplies are provided to each client free of charge. Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota 2537 25th Avenue South Minneapolis MN 55406 612-729-5986, 612-729-5914 tty/fax e-mail [email protected] website www.hsdm.org Board of Directors Mary Quist President Carlos Villalpando Vice President Lisa Knazan Secretary Len Washko Treasurer Sara Braziller Kara Fairbairn Lisa Knazan MarySue Krueger John Parzych Maureen Pranghofer Staff To reach a staff member via phone, dial 612-729-5986. When you hear the greeting, press the extension number. Mary Budge Director of Operations [email protected] ext. 158 Laurie Carlson Event & Volunteer Coordinator [email protected] ext. 113 Rob Carrick Puppy Program Coordinator [email protected] ext. 111 Janet Cobus Development Director [email protected]. 153 Mona Elder Graduate Services Coordinator [email protected] ext. 155 Shelly Hiemer Marketing & Communications Specialist [email protected] ext. 115 Rita Jesse Graduate Presenter Julianne Larsen Special Programs Coordinator [email protected] ext. 117 Jessica Nadeau Development Assistant [email protected] ext. 152 Angela Olson Kennel Manager [email protected] ext. 156 Lee Perish Account Assistant [email protected] 612-729-5914 tty Al Peters Executive Director [email protected] ext. 116 Thomas Rehbein Administrative Assistant [email protected] ext. 151 Dylan Evans Administrative Assistant [email protected] ext. 157 Maria Dunn, Jenna Nikodym, Caitlin Weiss Kennel Assistants Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things You’re Never Too Old Jeanne Wiger People who meet Jeanne Wiger of West St. Paul, Minn., notice her warm smile, artistic view of the world, and caring heart. What they don’t see are the effects of a childhood bout of polio. Baffin became a vital part of her practice from a very early age. As he continued training, both in and by Jessi Hiemer dropped items, helps Jeanne balance while walking, and serves as a brace to help her stand. Jeanne says, “Baffin helps me live. He is a healing presence who gives me a sense of safety and security.” He also continues his work with Jeanne in her practice, bringing a calming presence to stressful situations in counseling. In her mid 50s, Jeanne was diagnosed with post-polio syndrome. As she ages, Jeanne experiences back problems, difficulty with balance, and the effects of having both knees replaced. Those things can make day-to-day life difficult for Jeanne. It is difficult for her to pick up dropped items, and longer walks—such as the one to her mailbox—are dangerous because of her balance issues. Jeanne knows well the healing power of a dog in a person’s life. As a marriage and family therapist and practicing life coach, Jeanne has used dogs in her practice for more than 15 years. When her first therapy dog, Seb, passed away, Jeanne carefully chose her next companion. Baffin, a British Labrador. Jeanne says people are never too old for a Service Dog. “This is not a luxury, but a necessity,” she says. “It makes life doable and enjoyable. I find that by having a dog work with you, you can accomplish things you couldn’t get done otherwise.”Y Jeanne and Baffin out of the office, Jeanne says she wondered if he would also help her with the physical challenges she faced daily. Deb Schneider from AllBreed Animal Training gave Jeanne information on Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota and encouraged her to consider specialized training for Baffin. Today, Jeanne says, Baffin is a huge asset in her house. He picks up Did you know Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota is one of only a few organizations that will train a person’s pet dog? To learn more about Service Dogs and how you can help, call Janet Cobus at 612-729-5986 or visit our website at www.hsdm.org. THOSE WHO MADE THIS PLACEMENT POSSIBLE Dog Source Pet dog Field Trainer Michael Schneider 1989 to 2009—Celebrating 20 Years of Independence, Freedom, and Peace of Mind Throughout 2009 Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota will be celebrating our 20th anniversary of partnering assistance dogs with people who need them. That’s “140 dog years” of creating lasting, life-giving relationships with our clients, sponsors, donors, veterinarians, breeders, animal shelters, puppy raisers, foster homes, volunteers and you. In each and every way you helped, you assisted us in placing four hearing dogs, eighteen service dogs, one special skills dogs, and four autism assist dogs, giving their partners more independence, freedom and peace of mind. Thank you! Can you imagine what has happened in 20 years? While that might be hard to imagine, envision 20 times these accomplishments of 2008: • 121 dogs entered the program with 74 puppy and foster care homes • 394 volunteers provided 119,315 hours of valuable assistance • 27 teams graduated Looking back with you As we are looking over our past 20 years, we thankfully remember the gifts each person has brought to us. The energy, ideas, time, laughter, dedication and generosity have been beyond anything we could have imagined in 1989 when our first Hearing Dog, “Annie”, completed training. Can you imagine what will happen in the next 20 years?! To help us celebrate, we are compiling a history of our organization and we want to hear from you. • What brought you to Hearing and Service Dogs? • What do you like best about our work? • What is your favorite story? • How has it touched your life or the life of someone you know? Send your story and pictures to Shelly Hiemer at [email protected] or call her at 612-729-5986 ext. 115. These special tales will be compiled into a book that will grow throughout 2009 and be on display at our offices and at anniversary events throughout the year!Y www.hsdm.org 3 Freedom Independence Peace of Mind A Calming Influence Alex Cracraft and Windy The Cracraft family of Fridley, Minn., had never really given any thought to adding a dog to the family. That is until Rich and Lora attended a class at the Autism Society of Minnesota in 2007 about Service Dogs for children with autism. Rich had a dog as a young child but Lora had never had a pet (fish don’t really count). However, after much thought and discussion, they both agreed that a dog might be a positive step for their son, Alex. Alex has autism, and like many children on the autism spectrum, he has very high anxiety. Lora was really hoping that having a dog by his side would help alleviate some of Alex’s anxiety. Lora admits she was also hoping a dog would help ease the anxiety of her husband, Rich, who is also on the autism spectrum. Could a dog provide a calming influence for the whole family? After completing the application process they began to wait for a dog. In July of 2008 the family was matched with Windy, a yellow Labrador Retriever. Windy’s introduction to the family was a gradual process. Alex and his little brother, Taylor, had never really been around dogs and with the high anxiety level it was important that the transition of a dog into the home be as easy as possible. Lora and Rich have gotten accustomed to being noticed when in public since Windy joined their family. Some people have questions and others just admire Windy from afar. They have even run into a few people that didn’t know about autism. That surprised Lora at first but, when she thought back to what life was like before Alex was diagnosed, she realized she may have once been in the same place. Alex and Windy Windy’s first weekend in the Cracraft home was a bit stressful for the boys, but Lora immediately felt that she had some help and support. Windy just gave her a look that told her she wasn’t alone—Windy was there for her too. Wanda Viellieux and Redford 4 Slowly but surely Windy and Alex are forming a bond that will take them far. The Cracraft family are truly grateful to everyone that has made it possible for the opportunity to have Windy join their family.Y For information on helping to make other autism placements possible for those who are waiting, please contact Janet Cobus at 612-729-5986 ext, 153. THOSE WHO MADE THIS PLACEMENT POSSIBLE Dog Source Charlene and Jerome Moser Charm Labradors Since that first weekend, the family has come a very long way. Windy went from sleeping in a dog crate to sharing Alex’s bed and joining him on the couch. Lora and Rich are hoping that Windy will soon be attending school with Alex to help ease his anxiety during the day and to help make transitions easier. There When I Need Him Wanda Viellieux of New Richmond, Wis., has a long history of dog ownership and obedience training. In fact, she trained Flash, a Golden Retriever, to assist her with tasks made more difficult by the fibromyalgia she’s had since age 19. When Flash passed away in March 2008, Wanda thought that a smaller dog might fit her needs, but she quickly found that bending down to care for a small dog was too difficult. She decided that instead of trying to again train a dog on her own, she wanted the assistance and expertise she would receive from an organization that specialized in training Service Dogs. Wanda says she was thrilled when she discovered that Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota served her area. Three months after being by Julianne Larsen Veterinary Services Inver Grove Heights Animal Hospital Foster Home Al Peters & Penny Marsala The Turner Family by Shelley Frederickson accepted into the program, Wanda was paired with Redford, a 15-month-old Golden Retriever. Wanda and Redford Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota Although Wanda says she was apprehensive about getting attached to another dog, she knew that she needed help to live the active lifestyle she cherished. Her fears quickly vanished the moment she met Redford. Redford apparently felt right at home with Wanda, too. With the assistance of field trainer Kathy Derrick, the pair began learning the skills they’d need to work together as a team. “At first, I was pretty nervous and was concerned about whether I’d be able to effectively use the techniques we learned,” Wanda (continued on page 5) Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things The Legacy Club - A Final Act of Kindness Remembering Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota in a will or trust is an act of thoughtful generosity while living, and assures one of the last acts of kindness that can be achieved before death. The Legacy Club is our way to honor those individuals who, while living, inform us of their intentions to include us in their will or other planned giving device. We also recognize the generous donors who have passed on and already made bequests to further our work at Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota. Deceased members are followed by the designation (D). Members of the Legacy Club at the end of 2008 are as follows: Anonymous (3) Anonymous (D) M.E. Bergdahl Eunice Bren (D) Neil Bright Judy Couden Melinda Cress Bill & Janet Dubats Eleanor S. Fenton (D) Esther Graney Mary Jane Hankee (D) Ann Harhai (D) Janet Holcomb Dorothy Holden Lion Dean Julifs (D) Kathleen Kaiser Steven Kleinnmen Estate Trust (D) Lee Laurisch Sandy Lenarz M. Longley Liz Lucast Brian & Ann Marie McCann Osborn Lang Trust (D) Mary & Guy Roemhildt Scott Sandison Sandra Simonson Mark & Amy Sperry Margaret Syring (D) Sandra Wasserman Claralouise Wheeler John & Susan Williams Kathy and Roger Wright Alice Ziittel Please consider joining these special individuals. Contact Alan Peters at 612-729-5986 ext.116 for more information. Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota will list the members of The Legacy Club in each Winter issue of Tails From Minnesota. We are very grateful for your generosity and your faith in us.Y Hearing and Service Dogs in the News! The fourth quarter of 2008 was an exciting one for Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota. Our graduate teams were featured in 12 articles published in community. Many of the articles included color photos or were on the front page! Our sad news—the theft of our utility trailer from our parking lot—resulted in stories by WCCO TV(Channel 4) and KSTP TV(Channel 5). We received a generous response from the Wanda Viellieux and Redford (continued from page 4) recalls. “But as Redford and I bonded, I gained self-confidence and knew that we could do it.” Besides learning to pick up items for Wanda, Redford learned how to serve as a brace when she needs assistance getting out of bed or when she’s rising from the floor or a chair. Redford also carries a backpack that contains identification and emergency information for both Wanda and Redford. Wanda says that, although she greatly appreciates all of his skills, having Redford by her side when she’s walking has made the most difference. “Redford helps me balance and, community, including donations of an enclosed trailer and an open trailer, offers to loan trailers to us, and some wonderful cash donations. People are so generous! Jack, also known as Dr. Dog, the facility-based Service Dog at Mayo Clinic, and his partner, Marcia Fritzmeier, were featured in the Rochester paper, in the Mayo Clinic paper, and on Animal Planet’s Dog 101 TV program. by Shelly Hiemer We just learned that the National Enquirer is featuring Autism Assist team Finn Golden and his dog, Traeh, in the Acts of Kindness column on page 59 of the February 9, 2009 issue. This is our first publicity in an international publication! Thank you to all who helped us spread the good news about Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota! Y because I’m not struggling so much, my muscles do not get as fatigued. I feel so much more secure knowing that Redford is there when I need him,” she says. Wanda says that, in addition to helping her physically, Redford has helped her emotionally. “Redford takes the focus off the chronic pain I deal with and makes day-to-day living so much easier,” she remarks. When asked what she would say to anyone looking into getting a Service Dog, Wanda enthusiastically says, “It is so worthwhile. Life will be so much better with a Service Dog than without. And if you’ve had a Service Dog that you’ve lost, the next experience will be just as good as the last.”Y To make more dogs like Redford available for people on our waiting list, please visit www.hsdm.org or send a contribution in the return envelope attached between pages 6 and 7. Thank you! THOSE WHO MADE THIS PLACEMENT POSSIBLE Veterinary Services Life Care Animal Hospital Puppy Raisers Dianne and Doug Astry Field Trainer Kathy Derrick www.hsdm.org 5 Freedom Independence Peace of Mind CONTRIBUTORS Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota is supported by many agencies, companies, and individuals. A very special thanks to you all! The following contributions were received in our office by December 31, 2008. Contributions received by March 31, 2009 will be included in the Spring 2009 issue of Tails From Minnesota. $5,000 or more American Enterprise Investment Services - Anonymous BankFirst Bruce and Deb Thomas Foundation Delonais Foundation Eleanor S. Fenton Living Trust The Harmon Foundation, Inc. Steven Leuthold Family Foundation The Casey Albert T O’Neil Foundation Stephen & Jayne Usery WCA Foundation $2,500 to $4,999 Susan Allen Ameriprise Financial Duluth-Superior Community Foundation - G. Kendall Smith Fund for the Physically Disabled H. William Lurton Foundation Barbara & David Koch Kopp Family Foundation Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Northern Lights Combined Federal Campaign James Svobodny United Way $1,000 to $2,499 North Dakota County Chapter of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans SW Hennepin County Chapter of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Kathrynn Patton Albert & Deborah Roberge Rylaur Consulting LLC Greg & Cathy Stevens William Voedisch & Laurie Carlson Wal-Mart Foundation Jean West Claralouise Wheeler Baxter Lions Central Minneapolis Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Clear Lake Lions Cormorant Lions Crosslake-Ideal Lions Fargo Moorhead CFC Mr. & Mrs. Michael Chorley & Cindy Mernick - James Talcott Fund Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago Steven Kittay $500 to $999 Assistance Dog United Campaign Collision Center Inc. Richard & Maggie Cress Ian Drummond Corcoran Pet Care Center Stanley Durda Charlotte Gelfand H.B. 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Sammie The Willms family...................................Zoe The Young family...................................Lars The Zwack family..............................Wilma Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things Mary Adams Susan Adams ADC Foundation Carolyn Allen Allan & Virginia Amis Carol Anderson Karla Anderson Holly Anderson Mary Anderson Donna Applebaum Frank Arellono Ed Arnold Dianne Astry Jeff & Cheryl Avelsgard William Axness Jeanette Bach Rebecca Bagniewski Charles Ballentine Douglas Baum Bemidji First City Lions Laurie & Gary Bengtson Teri Bentson M.E. Bergdahl Andrea Berger Carl & Madeline Blegen Emily J. Boler Sue Bolin Marilyn Booth Nan Booth Mary Louise H. Bowen Bruce Braaten Dr. Gary Lippo Brainerd Animal Hospital Jane & Larry Brandenburger Carol Brant Rose Mary & Alex Brietkrietz Autumn Brodhecker Patricia and Richard Brown David & Patti Bruflodt Bill Brust Delores & Richard Buege Buffalo Lioness Leslie Butler Butterfield Lions Campbell Lions Caring Rivers United Way Donor Designated Funds Kay Carlson Nancy & James Carlson Lois Carlson Cass Lake Lions Macrina Cassidy Karen Cheesebrough Lou & Vicki Chouinard JoAnn Christensen Church of St Albert the Great Carol Clark LaDonna Cleveland Cynthia Cluka Judith Coffman Cold Spring Home Pride Lions Cold Spring Lions Karen & Robert Colin Comfrey Lions Club Community Shares of Minnesota - Thomson West C. Lynn & Gerald Cox Karen A. Cox Richard & Lora Cracraft Ouida Crozier Linda & Lyle Dallman Barbara & Harold Danley Danube Lions Jackie Davison Donna & Phil Dean Lisa & Mitchell Demarais Steven Despiegelaere Mary Jo Dircks Denise Dobrzenski Patricia Donaldson Kent & Wendy Dorholt Kathleen & Steven Dougherty Lois M. Ebnet Serine Ege Marie Ehrenberg Jessica Elfering Cate Elsten Sally Erickson Lorene Ericson John Evertz Fairfax Lioness Jean Falkavage Farming Lions Patricia Faustgen Daniel & Janet Feeney Karen Feller Grace Fenne Thomas & Linda Ferber Fergus Falls Daybreakers Lions Beth Filek Janet Finstad Britt Finstad Hogan Barbara Firth Laura Fisher Robin Fisher - Vermilion Donated by.................................................................... In Memory of Paula Allan.......................................................“Zephyr” & “Cooper” Barbara & Merrill Asbury.....................“Bailey” the Cocker Spaniel Jeff & Cheryl Avelsgard........................................... Brianna Stottrup Linda & Andrew Becher...................................................... “Goldie” M.E. Bergdahl....................................... Maria & Annamaria Nyman Rita & John Best...............................................................Steven Best Janet Cobus...........................................................................“Brandy” Eleanor Cook................................................................“Dear Buddy” Mary Beth Crowley..............................“Tuffy”, “Beignet” & “Taco” Donna & Phil Dean...................Audrey Barrette who loved all dogs Mary Jo Dircks...................................................Tammy Faye Barker Sally Erickson..................................................... Richard C. Erickson Denise Fenton............................................................................“Fuji” Lynn Ford..........................................“Hazel”, “Jasper” and “Dottie” Bonnie L. Genin....................................................Marrian Holmberg Lisa Graney.......................................................................Patsy Cline Nancy Hackett.........................................................“Buddy” Nichols Lynnette Hansen...........................................................“Little Annie” Cheri Hanson...................................................................... “Fletcher” In Kind Jennifer Anderson Gretchen Anderson Nathan Berndt Boysen Animal Hospital Sara Braziller Laurie Bromwich Dr. Melissa Carr Cascade Animal Center Dick Cottrell - Compensation Design Services Deb Cox Maggie Cress Cross Creek Kennel Betty Culver Jan Day Dr. Dan Feeney First National Building Holding Inc. Donna & Mike Flanagan Dr. Michelle France Caroyln Fruin & Mike Haughtaling Chuck & Chris Grui Happy Days Doggy Camp Heartland Animal Hospital Dianne Hennes Pat Hughes Inver Grove Heights Animal Hospital Sue Kilchenman BCT Minneapolis Dr. Gia Klauss Al Kugler - Costco Lakeway Corgi’s Kay Laursen Kathy Lav Dr. Steve Levine Linda LivingstonWeid Julie Mach Maryland Ave Pet Hospital Dr. Chas McBrien Kevin McDonald Dr. Alistair McVey Deb Molin Mounds View Animal Hospital Dr. Dennis Olivero Olympic Controls/ BookEndz Janice Parrow Pauline Iverson Gretchen Pickeral Pine Ridge Pet Care up to $100 Veterinary Clinic Molly Fliearman Lynn Ford Rebecca Forman Renee Forst Sandra Fuller Kathleen Galiger Katie & Owen Galloway Jayne Gardner Garrison Lions Sue Ann & Gary Garvis Gina Geffre Judith & Steven Gelderman Bonnie Genin Paul and Mika Gens Casey Gerach Susan Gierke Nancy Giving Dee Gladish Debra Glassman Ann Goerdt Jacqueline Gohdes Melvin Goldenbogen Lisa Goodman Lisa Graney Rebecca Greenwald Susanne Gustafson Nancy Hackett Darla Haines Anthony & Louise Halek Mitch & Susan Haley Hamburg Lions Lynnette Hansen Clarence Hansen Cheri Hanson Bobbi Harding Hector Lioness Julie Heise Hewitt Lioness Jeffrey Hinnenkamp Holdingford Lions Kimberly & Steven Horne Kathryn Hoy Jane Hoyt Mary & Allan Hunt Roxanne Hutar Margaret Imdieke Cross Mary Jackson Mel & Gwen Jacobson Susan Januschka Jen Jasicki Denice Jasper Alve Jemturd Roger Jensen Swenson Jerielyn Marsha Johnson Margaret & John Johnson Cathy & William Johnson Richard & Corrine Johnson Donna Johnson Ruth Johnson Elizabeth & Peter Johnson David Johnson Patricia Johnson-Doss Glenn & Meredith Joly Jennifer Jost Ruth Katz Rachel Kaul Mary Kelley Margaret Kelly Ida Kirsner Paige & Jason Kite Sue & Lyle Klaassen Sylvia Knazan Patricia Knox Sandy Koch Stephen Kodluboy Kim Kolar Keith Kolle Oksana Konopatski Coralee & James Krueger Marc Kruger Nancy & Sagar Krupa Jolene & Jeffrey Kuball Virginia Kukkola James & Margery Kupiecki Susan Kyser Gary & Carla Lagerstedt Lake Park Lions LandAmerica Foundation Laporte-Benedict Lions Kay Laursen Martin Lavelle Joyce Lee Carol Leinonen Sandra Lee Lenarz Helen Leqve Brian & Carrie Levendowski Sherri & Daniel Leverty Barbara & Carl Liedman Lincoln Scandia Valley Lions Lions International Dennis Litfin Barbara Loch Laabs Judy & Frank Loken Lonsdale Lions Lucan Lions Lavonne Ludke Dr. Grindle-Lyndale Animal Hospital Julie Lyons Kirk Mahle Laurence Margolis Penny Marsala Brea Marsh Robert Massey Rachel & Chloe Mathre Leslie Matton-Flynn Lawrence & Joanne May Mark McLaughlin Walter & Nancy Meadley Cecilia Meier Rosemarie Merrigan Richard & Diane Mester Rose Marie Meyer Allen Mickelson Suzanne Miedema Patricia Miller Lisa Miller Andriette & Keith Mortimore Morton Lions Diane Nagel Doug & Shirley Nash Lynette Nelson William Nelson Karen Nelson Kathryn & Christopher Nelson Barbara Nichols Karol Nielson Gabrielson Nightshadow Nimrod Area Lions Greg & Lorna Niska Gretajo Northrop Patricia & William O’Connor Susan Olsson Cheryl Osborne Roxanne & John Ostendorf Palisade Area Lions Narrah Palmquist Pelican Rapids Lions Christine Peters Sandy & Jon Pidde Bernadette Piotrowski Jill or Timothy Poirier Alex Porter Matt Porter Diane Potts Gloria Potz Virginia Power Memorials Fiona & Ravi Pradhan Heidi Price Bonnie & Donald Quigley Paul & Joyce Ramsay Patti Rathbun Raymond Lions Deborah & Thomas Reese Dick & Lynn Rew Mary Rhatigan Susan Rheingans Katherine Riggot Rockville Lions Martha Rohrbacher Deborah Root Royalton Lions Sauk Rapids Lions C&J Savoren Gina Schaal Jane Schamber Eugene Scheefler Paul Schoen Mary Schroeder Barbara Schuette R.G. Schulke Jill Schultz Carolyn Schurr Judy & John Schwab Alice Schweiss Amy Score Linda Scott Linda & Bruce Selchow Sertoma 1200 Club of Rochester TJ Sheldon Ann Shepard Mariana & Craig Shulstad Jodi Simma Tanya Simmer Maryanne & Gregory Gersch Simonitsch Jacqueline Singer Sharon Singleton Stanley & Sarah Siu Darroll & Marie Skilling Thomas & Beth Skradski Steven & Sherry Sletten Susan Smedberg Bruce & Laura Smith Allen M. Smith Mike Smith Barbara Solberg Clare Sorman Leota Spalla Adam Sparrow Susan Spence Amy & Mark Sperry Dee Spilleth St August Post No. 621 Legion St Augusta Lions St Martin Lions Julie Stanford Teresa Stanley Elizabeth Staples Kathleen Stark Kory Steil Pamela & Merle Steward Anita Stockton Lucille Sukalo Lucille Sunderman Sunrise Lions Margaret Susag Joanne Susag Robert & Michelle Swiller Bruce & Nancy Thorson Leslie & Darrell Tilleskjor Joan Tischer Michelle Torborg Underwood Lioness Tina Uppel Jennifer Van Ert Virginia Vara Verndale Lioness Club Kathy Vogel James & Janet Vroman Mario Wach Wachovia Foundation Matching Gifts Angela Wagamon Eleanor Wagner Jim & Bonnie Walters Hope Marie Wedge Rosalee & Maynard Wedul Daniel Westberg Jacquelyn Wetterling Holly Weum Vivienne Whitfield Melissa & Chris Wiezorek Rosemary Wiley David E. Willhelm John & Susan Williams John Bell Wilson Gary Wisner Howard Wittels Michael Wojcik Mary M. Wojikc Donated by.................................................................... In Memory of Kim Hanson.....................................................................Kent Hoerdt Bobbi Harding..................................................................Steven Best Honeywell Hometown Solutions............................................ “Beau” Susan Januschka........................................................................“Ben” Donna Johnson.......................................................................“Edgar” Patricia Knox.............................................................................“Lily” David Kostek.........................................................................“Bernie” Frank & Judy Loken...........................................................Steve Best Lavonne Ludke.....................................................................“Mandy” Rhonda Mecl............................................................................ “Tess” Gordon & Kay Meier......................................... Gregory John Meier Julie Miller.............................................................................. “Omar” Deb Molin........................................ “Taya”, “Cozmo” and “Gaylee” Marina Morris............................................“Sunshine” & “Diamond” Andriette & Keith Mortimore................................................“Dusty” Barbara Nichols.....................................................................“Buddy” Heidi Price.............................................................................“Trinka” Bonnie & Donald Quigley...................................................“Dakota” Deborah & Thomas Reese................................“Pepper” & “Simon” Donated by.................................................................... In Memory of Dick & Lynn Rew..... “Emmet” trained by Pete & Carina Markham Martha Rohrbacher......................................................... Jo Shabatura Martha Rohrbacher........................................Thea Harlans Nakashin Sandstone Quarry Lions.....................................................Steve Best Eugene Scheefler Tracey Racette & “Trogen” Dora & Howard Schroeder............................................... “Ray Ray” Amy Score..................................................................... Adella Krech Maryanne & Gregory Gersch Simonitsch...........................“Malibu” Jacqueline Singer................................................................................. .........................Barb & Laverne Dunsmore’s beloved dog, “Poppy” Dee Spilleth...........................................................................“Arthur” Kathleen Stark..............................................................Rebecca Stark Anita Stockton.......................................................................... “Jack” Debra Tegels..................................................................Gary Penman Bruce & Nancy Thorson.......................................................... “L.A.” Michael Walsh.........................................................................“Polly” Rosemary Wiley...................................................................Jean Tifft Howard Wittels..................................................................“Rainbow” Alice Ziittel............................................................ Barbara Van Dyke Donated by..................................................................In Honor of Kim Rheaume Susan Adams................................................................................. Dr. Peggy Root..........................Katie Nelson & Jackie & Karsten for Christmas Kustritz Teri Bentson.....................................Artis Jule Rothholz Curiskis Carie Seele Andrea Berger.....................................................................“Ally” Roger & Michelle Bluffton Lions......................................................... Peter Van Erp Sievers Marilyn Booth...........................................Diane Astry’s Birthday Sharon Singleton Mike Branch...........................................................Laura & Sarah Smith Vet Hospital Dawn & Gary Carlson............................................... Mary Bente South Shore Vet Rodney Carter.............................................Sue Carter’s Birthday Hospital LaDonna Cleveland............................................... Jeff Cleveland Dr. Jason Squibb Judith Coffman................................................................ “Archie” Dr. Christopher Barbara & Harold Danley............... Sue Casterin’s 50th Birthday Stauthammer Eagan Rotary Foundation - ............................. William Lee Scott Paul Tate Thomas & Linda Ferber.............................................Mike Ferber The Kyjen Molly Fliearman.....................................................Ben Fliearman Company Nancy Giving............................................... Maureen Pranghofer Third Avenue Pet Debra Glassman................................Artis Curiskis’ Bar Mitzvah Hospital Cynthia & Francis Herman..................Les, Melissa, & Nathanial Dr. Anthony Tobias ...... Thiery, Dr. Pete, Jessica, Kate & Lexi Aiello, Brad & Becky Dr. Nicole Tumble Mauck, Tim, Tabitha, Paige & Jake Rabenberg, Toby, Jamie .. & Sherri Ullrich Stryker Mauck, Nancy Olson, Hayley, Brayden & Hunter ......... University of MN Hilton VMC Marilyn & Malcolm Hoeck Neal.................................................. Valley View Pet ............................. “King King”, “Lady”, “Zumba” & “Princess” Hospital Mel & Gwen Jacobson.................................................................. VCA Cedar Pet ..............................AKC CH/ICH Trace of TTT’s Ransome MH Clinic Veterinary Surgical Margaret & John Johnson........................Superior Great “Laker” Sandra Lee Lenarz........................................................................ Specialists Thomas Whisenand .............................Lloyd & Mary Ann Lenarz - Merry Christmas Brian & Carrie Levendowski........................................................ ........................................... Lisa Knazan & Dennis Levendowski Leslie Matton-Flynn........................................ Toni and “Reggie” Donated by..................................................................In Honor of Lawrence & Joanne May.............................................................. .............................................Grandaughter Alyson and “Stewart” Kate McCormick........................... “Gander” and Dora Schroeder Cathy McGowan.......................................................... Mr. Monte Andriette & Keith Mortimore............................................“Babe” Lina & Doug Mosier........................................ “Ivan” the Terrific Doug & Shirley Nash.................................................................... ....................................“Odie”, “Gibson”, Dave and Marge Skeie Gretajo Northrop.............................................................. “Wyatt” Doug & Carol Ogren........................................................... Ogren Narrah Palmquist.......................................... James M. Palmquist Christine Peters.............................................. Al Peter’s Birthday Matt Porter.................................................................Mike Ferber Alex Porter.................................................................Mike Ferber Fiona & Ravi Pradhan......................................... Amy Pakhomov Cynthia Raub...............................................................Deb Molin Philip Reilly.................................................................................. ....................................Phoebe Fenske, in honor of a mother who ........................................................ loves dogs for her Birthday! John Sawyer.................. Siever’s Kennels - Gary & Gina Sievers Gina Schaal..............................................................Carter Schaal Jodi Simma................................ Erica & Lisa Ranum’s Wedding Mike Smith................................................“Trooper” and “Rose” Tonya Spanier................................................................. “Phalen” Anita Stockton.................................................. Michael Stockton Lucille Sukalo...................................Dora Schroeder & “Honey” Joan Tischer....................................................... Edie Wunderlich Karen Wolf.............................................................Matthew Wick Lewis Wolf................................................................. Matty Wick Terese & Scott Wykle.......................................... “TJ”’s adoption Allan & Polly Zabel......................................................Kim Hyde Honorariums www.hsdm.org 7 Freedom Independence Peace of Mind DEVELOPMENT NEWS February 7th - Pancake Breakfast to benefit Hearing and Service Dogs at Applebee’s in Maple Grove Enjoy a geat breakfast and help raise funds for Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota. Tickets are $6.00 and are only available in advance. Contact Jessica at 612-729-5986 ext. 152 or [email protected] to purchase a ticket. Saturday, February 7, 2009 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m., Applebee’s 14400 Weaver Lake Road, Maple Grove Minnesota Women of Today At at their November 2008 conference, Minnesota Women of Today members chose Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota as their next three-year Priority Project. This is a great honor and we look forward to working with the organization’s project leader to raise funds and create awareness about our services throughout the state with the help of their members. 2009 Special Events Fundraising Committee We are beginning a new year and would love to have YOU! Join our committee or simply help with the following Spring fundraising projects: Applebee’s Benefit Breakfast; Saint Paul Saints Game Fundraiser; NameA-Puppy school and corporate recruitment program; Dog Park Map, RenFest Volunteer recruitment co-chair; Phon-a-thon volunteer recruitment and more. We meet on the second Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota conference room. Feel free to call Janet or attend any meeting to find out more! You can help raise enough funds to meet our 2009 goal of training and placing 30 new teams! Tails of Independence Fundraising Luncheon –April 21, 2009 Our fifth annual fundraising event is a luncheon this year and will be held at Midland Hills Country Club in St. Paul. A committee is being formed to plan the event. We are looking for help in the following areas: marketing, planning the theme, recruiting Table Captains, and working at the event. If you would like to serve as a Table Captain for this event filling a table of eight. Make a New Year’s Resolution to help Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota! • Provide a monthly contribution From the Executive Director costs, but we also saw significant increases in a number of areas. For example, contributions from our holiday mailing at the end of 2008 were up 32 percent over the same holiday letter sent in 2007. I am encouraged by this year-end support from our valued individual supporters. It might be logical to follow the crowd by cutting staff or services now. However, demands for our services are increasing. Waiting lists, especially for Autism Assist Dogs, are growing significantly. 8 by Janet Cobus to Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota through our new Automatic Donation Plan. Sign up on www.hsdm.org, and we’ll automatically deduct your contribution from your checking or savings account or bill your credit card in the amount and frequency of your choice. You can also call our office, and we’ll send you a paper authorization form to return with your instructions. • Think about the long term and embark on a planned giving strategy. Planned gifts can lower your taxes, create a legacy, and ensure that Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota receives funding for decades to come. The options are numerous; there’s a suitable giving plan for virtually everyone. You can read about a few common options at www.hsdm.org. For more information or to get involved with any of the items listed, please contact Janet Cobus [email protected] or 612-729-5986 ext. 153 IRA ALERT The U.S. Senate has approved broad tax legislation extending the IRA charitable rollover through December 21, 2009. The provision is retroactive, effective for distributions made after December 31, 2007. To learn more about this charitable giving option, please contact your financial advisor. Y (continued from page 2) So instead of holding back, we are attacking our mission with enthusiasm and confidence, knowing that your support will follow our good work. During 2009 we will again increase the overall number of new assistance dogs we place, this time to 30 teams, and we will further increase the number of Autism Assist graduates to eight teams. As you might guess, this projected growth will increase our budgeted expenses for 2009, up 16 percent. I am depending on your help as we con- Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota tinue to pursue our vision of a future in which every person who needs and wants an assistance dog can have one. Thank you for the ways you support our work at Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota. Happy new year! Y Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things Truly Golden Steve Sletten and Rhett Steve Sletten of Owatonna, Minn., was diagnosed in 1981 with multiple sclerosis (MS), a progressive neurological disease. Steve said his symptoms really started to give him trouble two years later. Ten years ago, he had to quit his job as a mechanic after working for the same company for more than 20 years. Now Steve uses a motorized wheelchair, because his ability to use his legs and arms has lessened Rhett gets on the bed in the morning and licks his face for a few minutes before it’s time to get up; at the same time, Tootie snoozes on Steve’s other side. Their morning routine involves Steve and Rhett going out for coffee. Rhett brings Steve’s coffee cup to the counter, someone fills it, and Rhett brings it back to Steve’s table. It’s a routine that Steve, Rhett and their friends all enjoy. Steve’s friends say that they are amazed by what Rhett can do for Steve. Steve’s daughter heard about Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota when dog trainer Sheri Cassens spoke at her 4-H meeting. When she told her dad about the organization, Steve started his research right away. When Steve applied for a Service Dog with Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota, he wrote, “I need help during the day when my wife and daughter are at work and school. We live on two acres, and I try to stay busy gardening and woodworking. Having a Service Dog could help keep me independent during the day when I’m alone.” Steve was excited when he was matched with Rhett, an 18-month-old Golden Retriever. Steve had a pet Golden Retriever in the past, and he really liked the breed. “Rhett is a great dog who has exceeded my expectations,” Steve says. “He learned how to New Staff Member Steve and Rhett help me out right away.” Rhett’s retrieving skills truly are golden! He picks up items for Steve— including car keys, pieces of paper, and kitchen utensils. It is impressive to watch Rhett open the refrigerator door and retrieve a water bottle for Steve. He even closes the door and brings Steve a straw! Rhett likes his job and has bonded with Steve, his family and their pet Newfoundland, Tootie. Steve says he gets a chuckle when Mary Budge joined Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota as Director of Operations in September 2008. Mary comes to us with more than 15 years of leadership experience in building organizations, developing management teams and significantly improving operational performance. As Director of Operations Mary is responsible for human resources, finance, information technology, marketing and communications, and volunteer management. A lifelong Minnesota resident, Mary and her husband Stephen currently live in North Oaks and have three grown daughters who live in the Twin by Amy Sper- Steve expressed thanks to the donors, volunteers and staff of Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota. “Before we had Rhett, our family never went out to restaurants for dinner,” he says. “Now, with Rhett, we have the confidence to go out just about once a week. I really want to thank Sheri for helping us with our training. That was a huge benefit for us.” Y To make more dogs available for people like Steve, visit us at www. hsdm.org. THOSE WHO MADE THIS PLACEMENT POSSIBLE Veterinary Services Globe University-Woodbury Puppy Raisers Marge and Dave Skeie Field Trainer Sheri Cassens Cities area. When not working, Mary volunteers at a number of nonprofit organizations in the Twin Cities and enjoys spending time in her backyard, watching the birds and reading. Of course, Mary enjoys spending time with her very large, lazy, but incredibly loving, yellow lab, Otto.Y Mary and Otto Our 20th Anniversary! www.hsdm.org 9 Freedom Independence Peace of Mind Marley and Me Cindy Murphy and Marley If you know someone who is disabled, please encourage them to contact Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota. I had doubts that I was not “disabled enough” to need a service dog, and I thought someone else would need one more, but Marley has really made a difference in the way I live my life. I say GO FOR IT! 2007 marked a significant change in my life. Before February, I had a fulltime job, was active and was busy with my family. Then, a spinal infection left me with limited mobility and many balance issues. I was unable to get out much, and I spent a lot of time in bed due to nerve pain. When I did go out, I was very fearful. Going from being an able-bodied person to being disabled is really scary. It’s not like you can run away if you are in danger. During rehabilitation at Courage Center, I met several service and therapy dogs and was impressed with how they helped people. That spring, I attended a pancake breakfast, where I talked to a member of the Spring Lake Park Lions. He gave me information about Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota, and I applied the very next day! I found the application process very easy and was soon matched with a yellow Labrador Retriever named Marley. We started training, and I discovered that the training was not only for Marley, but for me as well. The best part of training was finding out all the things that Marley could do to help me. He can retrieve things I drop, open handicap-accessible doors, and carry my wallet and emergency information in his backpack. He helps me feel less Volunteer Spotlight 10 by Cindy Murphy Cindy and Marley vulnerable when I go out in public alone. Above all, he is my companion 24/7. Waiting to take him home was definitely the hardest part of training. My 15-year-old daughter, Delaney, had attended all the training sessions with me, because I would not go out of the house alone. Since I am unable to walk Marley or clean up after him in the yard, Delaney volunteered to take on that responsibility. Delaney and Marley have a special bond of their own. I am grateful for Marley’s puppy raisers and the trainers who touched his life before me. I hope they know how important they are. To the supporters of Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota, I say thank you. You make a difference--not only in my life, but in the lives of everyone Marley and I interact with.Y Would you like to help provide more dogs like Marley? Call Janet Cobus at 612-729-5986 ext. 153 to learn how. THOSE WHO MADE THIS PLACEMENT POSSIBLE Dog Source Charlene and Jerome Moser Veterinary Services VCA Cedar Pet Clinic Puppy Raisers The Grabau Family Foster Home Inmates at Faribault Correctional Facility by Laurie Carlson Mary Alexander and her family of Roseville, Minn. have been long time volunteers for Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota. They started in 2001 and have never slowed down. The Alexander family includes; Jon, Mary, Kathryn, Jayson, Chris and Jennifer. Mary and her daughter, Jennifer, first became involved with helping at events and showed great enthusiasm in promoting the organization. The family then fostered puppies and adult dogs; too many to count! They have also raised several dogs from puppies to adulthood. Mary has been a great example to her children of how to give back to the community. She and at least one of her kids have always been involved in events including volunteering at the Heel and Wheel dog walk. Jon Alexander, her husband, has also helped in taking photographs at events and taking care of the dogs. Now that the kids are grown and out of the house, Mary has stayed busy continuing to puppy raise Eli, a Labrador, fostering other dogs, helping at events and dropping by the office to assist with projects. 1st row: Jennifer, Mary, Kathryn 2nd row: Chris, Jon, Jayson Dogs are Eli and Quincy Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota Oldest daughter, Kathryn, got married several years ago, and she (continued on page 11) Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things A Part of the Family Lindsey Hjerpe and Rosco Lindsey Hjerpe of Bloomington, Minn., loves her independence. Although she lost her hearing as a child, she has a life full of friends, laughter, and activity. His presence is a comfort to Lindsey’s parents as well, because they know their daughter is safe on her own with Rosco by her side. Lindsey thanks all who helped Rosco join her family. She says, “He makes me happy. He knows when I’m upset and is always there to comfort me and make me laugh.” Rosco makes Lindsey and her roommate feel safer and more independent. Rosco truly has become a part of the family—one Lindsey says she can’t imagine living without.Y After losing the childhood dog she loved, Lindsey began to search for a new companion. She discovered the Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota Web site and realized a new dog could help alert her to sounds around the house. After applying, Lindsey was paired with Rosco, an 18-month-old Golden Retriever. Rosco was originally selected by Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota to be a Service Dog. However, his talents were better suited in serving as a Hearing Dog. Today, Lindsey says Rosco is an integral part of her life. He wakes her up in the morning and alerts her to oven timers, smoke alarms, knocks at the door, and other sounds she might otherwise miss. If Lindsey isn’t around, Rosco carries out his duties with her roommate, Stacy, who is also deaf. When visiting Lindsey’s family, Rosco has even been known to wake up her brother if he sleeps through guests at the door! Volunteering is critical to our work. We can’t continue this work without dedicated puppy raisers like Patty Van Landschoot, who raised Rosco. Visit our website at www.hsdm.org to learn about the many ways you can help or call Laurie Carlson about volunteer opportunities at 612-729-5986 ext. 113. Lindsey and Rosco are a great team. Rosco goes to work and school with Lindsey, sleeping under the table and waiting to greet anyone who comes by. The pair even went to Deaf Culture Minnesota Camp, where Rosco quickly became the hit of the week. He woke everyone up in the morning, participated with Lindsey in activities throughout the week, and even “starred” as a cow in the end-ofcamp play. At her family’s Wisconsin cabin, Rosco loves to go fishing with Lindsey’s dad and play in the lake. Today, Lindsey says, she and Rosco Volunteer Spotlight by Jessi Hiemer THOSE WHO MADE THIS PLACEMENT POSSIBLE Veterinary Services Globe University-Woodbury Puppy Raiser Patty Van Landschoot (continued from page 10) and husband, Jayson, began fostering dogs and puppy raising, too. She even took over from Mary as chair of the registration committee for the Heel and Wheel. We cannot thank Mary enough for all the years of faithful service and for providing this level of volunteerism. Needless to say, we send a huge thank you to all the Alexanders for their enthusiasm, caring and hard work in helping us place assistance dogs with those who need them.Y What about you? Are you willing to give the gift of time? We need help in the following areas: • Puppy raisers (14 to 16 month commitment) • Short-term dog foster home (2 to 4 weeks) • Breeder host family – dog lives with you while having puppies for the organization; you get to keep the dog after she is retired (approximately two to three years). • Heel and Wheel committee – join us in planning this popular event. Lots of different areas to volunteer your time and talents. • Special events fundraising committee – help think up new ideas for raising funds! • Twenty year anniversary committee – help plan our big gala this fall. Contact Volunteer Coordinator, Laurie Carlson, for more details in volunteer opportunities at [email protected] or 612-729-5986 ext. 113.Y Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota 2007 Annual Report Available now at www.hsdm.org www.hsdm.org 11 Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Minneapolis,MN Permit NO. 4744 Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota 2537 25th Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55406 CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED Please Note! If you are receiving more than one copy of Tails from Minnesota, have moved, or you do not wish to receive our newsletter in the future, please call 612-7295986, 729-5914 tty, or e-mail [email protected]. Wish List P Dog treats!! (Pupperoni, small Milkbone) P Frontline Heartworm Preventative P LCD computer monitors, 17” or larger P Palm Treo Smartphone for Verizon P Automotive GPS devices P More puppy raisers! P Plastic dog crates (large and extra large) P Dog grooming services P Van with wheelchair lift, good condition P 25’ extension cords P Home Theater system for meeting room P Mac G4 Computers, laptop P 6’ wide ceiling mount video screen P 7’+ wide portable video screen P Small wagon/hatch-back for delivering dogs P Microwave cart with drawer P Dog leashes, 6’ narrow width cotton P Camcorder, Digital P Exercise pens, 36’-48’ P Donated veterinary services P Gentle Leaders & Haltis, sizes M & L P New Smoke Detectors P 8-1/2 x 11 copy paper P Plastic “Playschool” benches and table P Batteries, AA & AAA P Carpet cleaner P Kongs, Nylabones (large & puppy-size) P Gift certificates to pet stores and home improvement stores P Newer wheelchairs, manual Quickie-type P 1st-class stamps P Purebred puppies P New dog grooming supplies P Gasoline cards P Adobe InDesign CS2, Illustrator, Photoshop, for Mac P Bleach, Formula 409 cleaner P Paws Safe Sidewalk de-icer P Gift cards to pet supply stores P Gift cards to office supply stores P Kitty Litter P 5/8" adjustable 10"-16" collars Upcoming Events January 24 February 7 February 17 March 14 March 28 April 16 April 21 November 14 Tails To Tell tour, 10:00 a.m. Benefit Pancake Breakfast Applebee's Maple Grove Tails To Tell tour, 7:00 p.m. Volunteer Recognition Luncheon, Midland Hills Golf Course Tails To Tell tour, 10:00 a.m. Tails To Tell tour, 6:00 p.m. Tails of Independence Luncheon, Midland Hills Golf Course 20th Anniversary Gala Location TBA * All Tails to Tell tours take place at our facility, located at 2537 25th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55406. Please call our office at 612-729-5986 or 612-729-5914 (tty) to reserve a spot. GO GREEN! In an effort to be good citizens, and better meet the needs of our readers, we will now offer you a choice: Receive Tails From Minnesota in the current paper format, OR receive an email with a link to Tails From Minnesota that you can quickly download. Do nothing and Tails From Minnesota will arrive at your door again in 90 days. Send an email to Tom at [email protected] with a request and you will hear from us electronically next time instead.Y A special thanks to all of you who previously supplied us with wish list items! You made our wishes come true! Y www.hsdm.org Congratulations! On January 13, 2009, Al Peters received a plaque from Assitance Dogs International during our convention in Orlando, Florida. The plaque recognizes that Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota has become one of a select group that has acheived full accreditation by its professional trade association.Y