Community Education

VIP3 puppy raisers provide many opportunities to educate the public about guide dogs and the etiquette one should use when meeting a team out on the street.  We have been invited to schools when students are learning about working dogs and to scout meetings when working on a disabilities merit badges.  We have given presentations to service groups, libraries, churches and synagogues. We love sharing our puppies with our community.  

 

Our Entry in the Science of Gingerbread Competition

The Discovery Science Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating young minds, assisting teachers and increasing public understanding and appreciation of science, math and technology through interactive exhibits and programs. One of their annual events is “The Science of Gingerbread”.  Every fall visitors learn where gingerbread came from, the different kinds of gingerbread, and the history of gingerbread in literature.  Included in the exhibit is a competition to create a delicious masterpiece out of gingerbread, icing, and other delectable edibles.  All entries are on display from November 26th - January 2nd. VIP 3 chose this as an opportunity to teach kids about Guide Dogs for the Blind and the puppies who are raised locally.  Our entry, “The Raisers Den”  had a statue of every puppy in the club. They were created out of an edible frosting called fondant.  The gingerbread house had two messages in braille located on the roof.  Kids were shown the braille alphabet and asked to decipher the messages.  Puppies Alan, Neon, and Redwood were on hand to delivery our entry.  “The Raisers Den” won first place in the “Innovator’s Award” category and was enjoyed by all.

 

 

 

 

Participating in community parades is a great way to bring the Guide Dog mission to the public. 
We even participated in the Rose Parade!

We visit the Blind Children’s Center for students to meet our puppies.

By participating in Community Fairs where we have information booths,
 we are able to educate the public on the mission of Guide Dogs for the Blind.

 

 

 

Visiting classrooms through out our community is exciting for our puppies, raisers and the students!

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