Whitecourt residents will lace up for a cause later this month as the Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides returns to Festival Park May 25, part of a nationwide effort to support Canadians living with medical and physical disabilities.
The walk, which begins at 1 p.m., is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year with the theme “Brighter Futures. Countless Possibilities.” It is one of more than 200 events taking place across the country to raise funds and awareness for the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides (LFCDG).
Organizers say proceeds from the walk will go directly toward training and providing dog guides that assist Canadians in seven specialized areas, including autism assistance, canine vision, diabetes alert, hearing, seizure response, service and facility support.
“This year’s walk, is a testament to the enduring impact Dog Guides have on the independence, confidence, and quality of life of Canadians living with a disability,” said Travis Forbes, manager of events at the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides. “We’re deeply grateful to local organizers and participants who have made this work possible for 40 years.”
The Whitecourt event is supported by the Whitecourt Lions Club and national sponsor Pet Valu. The organization has set a national fundraising goal of $1.6 million to continue providing these life-changing dogs free of charge.
For families like Jodie’s, whose daughter Alison was matched with an Autism Assistance Dog Guide named Buttons, the program has been transformative.
“Buttons hasn’t just brought safety and calm to Alison’s life, he’s brought hope, joy, and a newfound sense of possibility for our family,” she said.
For more impact stories from dog guide recipients, click here.
More information, registration and donation options are available at www.walkfordogguides.com.
