Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce

07/23/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 07/24/2024 14:39

The Ability Center seeking volunteers to support the Assistance Dog Program

Puppy Raisers Needed! The Ability Center is Seeking Volunteers to Support Our Assistance Dog Program

Toledo, OH - [July 24, 2024] - The Ability Center of Greater Toledo is in urgent need of support from the community in raising and fostering puppies for our Assistance Dog program. This volunteer opportunity helps provide independence to individuals with disabilities through the love and support of specially trained dogs.

Puppy Raise Now!

We are asking compassionate individuals and families to step up and become puppy raisers. This vital role involves teaching basic obedience, manners, and foundational skills to our assistance dogs in training. By becoming a puppy raiser, you will directly contribute to the independence of someone with a disability.

Be the Reason Someone Gains Independence

As a puppy raiser, you will:

  • Provide a loving, safe, stable, and consistent home environment for 10 to 12 weeks.
  • Teach manners and basic commands.
  • Keep the puppy on a leash at all times when outside and not in an enclosed, secure location.
  • Provide exposure to different environments to aid in the puppy's training.
  • Attend weekly training classes on-site and in public settings.
  • Ensure that only friendly dogs and other pets are housed with your service dog in training.

Support from The Ability Center

The Ability Center provides all necessary support for our puppy raisers, including covering dog food, vet care, and essential supplies.

Call to Action

If you are interested in making a significant impact in someone's life by becoming a puppy raiser, please visit our volunteer page at abilitycenter.org/volunteer or contact us directly at 419-885-5733.

Interview Opportunity with Stacie Baumbarger

For more information on this urgent need and the overall impact of our Assistance Dog Program, we invite media representatives to schedule an interview with Stacie Baumbarger, our Assistance Dog Staff Director, and our puppies! Stacie can provide in-depth insights into the role of puppy raisers and share success stories of individuals whose lives have been transformed through this program.

Please contact Nick Vargas at the details below to schedule an interview or for further inquiries.

About The Ability Center of Greater Toledo

Together, we will work to make our community the most disability-friendly in the nation by increasing independence for people with disabilities, discovering true passions, and changing the community's perception of disability. Our programs and services are designed to empower people with disabilities to live, work, and participate fully in the community.

For more information, visit abilitycenter.org.

Social Media Post: https://www.facebook.com/abilitycenter/posts/pfbid0KQbe6sU7m5YsgF9gjwS73DHbdjUEXnbECFwNCma4Yza3CP6RQx3kDxMFyM7FK9q6l

Media Contact:

Nick Vargas

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

The Ability Center

OFFICE 419.885.5733 x350

5605 Monroe Street

Sylvania, OH 43560

abilitycenter.org