sanler Once you have gotten your fill of puppy love, you can then head over to the Training Kennel to check out one of the guide dogs-in-training to stroll around our gorgeous campus. My family has been involved with Southeastern Guide Dogs for two years now. 07/30/2019. This is a top notch facility. Volunteer Their goal is to change someone's life by providing a trained dog to give more independence.... whether a guide dog or a veteran service dog for PTSD. The organization is run by Titus Herman and has an annual revenue of $21,584,014. The dogs are loved dearly and placed with their “forever person” with the utmost care. As a volunteer I feel grateful to be part of this organization. As a puppy raiser, I meet people all the time who say how much they love Southeastern, or ask how they can be involved. Southeastern Guide Dogs is truly a world class state of the art training facility for both Guide dogs and Service dogs. All the funds received are donations. An admirable attribute not commonly found in many organizations today. 10/07/2020, I’ve been a part of the program only a year and I can already say they do amazing work. To see and hear the stories the graduating classes and what their new four legged best friend means to them is humbling. Client Served There are so many stellar professionals working here that employees must constantly strive for improvement to be noticed. Your gift has changed my life. My husband Terry and I have been involved in many areas of SEGD -we are so happy we are. With over 300 volunteers, we take pride in knowing how much money we've saved SEGD so that the funds can be directed toward the recipients.From driving golf carts, helping in the kitchen, being a Breeder Dog Host to a Puppy Raiser, we each take great pride in the gift of our efforts. Thankfully, it wasn’t up to me; it was in the hands of the licensed physician who provided me with the answer to my prayers, and the start to getting my life back. He was another living life form, and possible target if he were to approach me in any way I found aggressive. Volunteer Get Directions Because of this trust and because of the mission, I decided to support Southeastern Guide Dogs through the wonderful Sponsor a Puppy program, which became the perfect gift for a loved one. Client Served We placed 11 skilled companion dogs with children with vision loss, and placed 17 dogs into public service for further scent detection training. I also help with set-up, clean-up and serving at both the Puppy Raiser Brunch, where visually impaired students get to meet the people who raised their new canine companion and the Veterans' dinner, where veterans with PTSD meet the people that raised their service dog. 07/30/2019, I have been volunteering on the Southeastern Guide Dog Campus for five years and have worked in a myriad of different roles all over the campus. Volunteer Eye Diseases, Blindness & Vision Impairments, I am one proud volunteer! We both have bonded together right away. The positive energy that flows in and around this organization pulls you in to be involved in making a difference in the lives of those individuals in need of a guide dogs or service dogs. The current plan is for two events in 2021. ljp80us ReviewWriter Knowing these precious pups will go on to enhance the lives of those in need is so heartwarming. What they do at NO cost is amazing, and is something I’ll never be able to repay. SEGD changes lives one pup at a time. I feel blessed to be a part of this organization. August 4, 2020. I walked around with a fake smile and a source of alcohol and drugs at all times thinking that was normal. Volunteer The three weeks I spent at the school changed my life. I've been visually impaired or legally blind since birth. slhpag Today is my first day back at work with my Guide Dog and the morning has been beyond expectations. 07/30/2019. This is one of the best organizations I have ever worked with or volunteered at. In 200 we moved to the Tampa area from Iowa and began a new chapter in our journey. Client Served Volunteer As you can see, I was lost, sick, and absolutely out of my mind. I truly believe that the GreatNonProfits Top-Rated Award couldn't go to a more deserving service organization. When I was 17 I joined the U.S. Marines and deployed to the Sangin district of Afghanistan for 10 months. The Chefs are great, friendly and the food is amazing. It is amazing what this organization accomplishes and all provided gratis without any government contributions. First rate campus and staff and highly recommend to volunteers searching for a good fit. Laura Steven S. 06/12/2018. Client Served ), attended several meetings to get a good feel for what was required, and it was clear how dedicated all the staff and volunteers were. MattFug Chuck Bishop, bartlett After hearing all of the graduates talk about getting their dog and how much it changed their life, I had to find out more. Donna N.2 Toni V.1 As someone who's been around the military for my professional career and supporting those who serve, I developed a keen awareness of their sacrifice and how important it is that we take care of those who've made the sacrifice for our nation particularly those that now need extra help in their daily lives. My husband and I first came to the SEGD campus in 1984. I think it is a testament to the reputation, operation and successes of SEGD's that with their continual growth and expansion, many of the new and planned buildings are fully funded by generous contributions BEFORE a footing is poured! 06/21/2018. I have been a volunteer puppy raiser for Southeastern Guide Dogs for almost 2 years now. To say these testimonies are a moving tribute to the value of Southeastern's mission and impact, is an understatement. The new facilities allowed the team at SEGD take everything they do to a new level. Traveldreamer617 Pursuing our mission since 1982, Southeastern Guide Dogs now has over 1,200 dogs under our auspices. Their dogs touch the lives of everyone they interact with from volunteers, puppy raisers, students, and people in the community. dmluecke This organization is TOP NOTCH. Something I have never heard of, nor did I care or think it would help. It is heart warming to see the difference these dogs make in people's lives. I have seen the employees working with the dogs, and the new Handlers. Their mission, their professional approach to running Southeastern, their true appreciation of and for their many volunteers, are a few of the reasons why Southeastern is an outstanding nonprofit organization. Find out what works well at Southeastern Guide Dogs, Inc. from the people who know best. Shaunamarie I was looking for a way to fill some free time but wanted it to be purposeful. It does not matter where in the US the student lives, SEGD will support them throughout their working relationship with their dog. So lucky to live close by so I can volunteer on campus. The staff and the trainers were always asking if they could do more.I found the facilities on campus amazing and first class. I saw and did things that I’d never imagine, that I never knew existed, and that I’d never be able to forget. Last fall we saw a news story about SEGD and decided to run down and check it out as we had not been there since our first visit in 1984. I thanked him for his service and sacrifice. They truly care. 10/05/2020. Creating world-class #guidedogs for the #visuallyimpaired and #servicedogs for #veterans with disabilities. Thanks to the intelligence and fine training of these dogs, people with vision loss and veterans with disabilities find the freedom, confidence, and independence they need. The food was also delicious. What followed was 20 days of 6 a.m to 7 p.m. training sessions at the Southeastern Guide Dogs facility, which has apartments for its clients. I love him with all my heart, and I owe him my life. Volunteer All donations are tax deductible as allowed by law. Puppy pick up is a breeze, and while emotionally hard, drop off is made as easy as it can be. Makes my heart so happy to be able to do this. 10/05/2020. It didn't take me long to visit Southeastern (had the puppy hugging experience) and signed up to volunteer. The staff at every level are extremely dedicated and supportive. Always so knowledgable and very supportive. Each person I meet on campus, each future superhero I work with, every department I interact with, come together seamlessly in this shared vision and focused effort. Volunteer drew.sestito I cannot speak highly enough about this organization that helps vets like myself that have PTSD to obtain a service dog. I could not be any happier knowing that I am just one cog in a wheel that helps Southeaster Guide Dogs accomplish their goals and aspirations.Alan SkulskyCampus Volunteer, dtcollie As an employee of Southeastern Guide Dogs for many years, I can attest to the integrity and trustworthiness of the organization. As you contemplate this decision I encourage you to look at the videos on our website. 07/30/2019. 4210 77th St. East Tammy Farrow A. If I lived closer, I would volunteer more than I currently do. See more ideas about Guide dog, Dogs, Southeastern. Tears of amazement and hope and renewed expectancy and confidence.It is an absolute privilege to see the incredible transformations and the difference a dog makes. Staff and trainers answered all of my questions whenever I had them, and the amenities were awesome as well. They rely solely on private donations and do not take any government funds. I am thrilled to be a part of the team and be able to give to so many in need. Learn more at www.GuideDogs.org. A nonprofit with a national reach, we train dogs of the highest pedigree for people who are blind, veterans, and children, providing our premier dogs and lifetime services at no cost. As a volunteer and board member of several nonprofits over the years, I have been most impressed with Southeastern Guide Dogs. Volunteer Penne24 Terry G.1 After attending "Making of a Super Hero" last year and learning about the mission of Southeastern Guide Dogs, I was waiting to join this wonderful organization as a volunteer. The beds were comfortable, and the rooms were spacious. Uncover why Southeastern Guide Dogs, Inc. is … They could not be better, at what they do for the blind and those with PTSD. Long story short, I am now 26 years old and over the course of treatment I have been prescribed to 46 different medications and a max of 15 a day. When people lose vision, it’s easy to lose hope. It’s been about 2 1/2 years now since Hooch and I were paired but within days he started to change my life. Every single staff member, and volunteer that I have had the pleasure to meet are truly friendly, but most importantly they are professional. Southeastern Guide Dogs is a very unique and special organization that provides service dogs to the blind as well as Veterans. Additionally, I have volunteered in the Canine University (a.k.a. That’s why we develop extraordinary partnerships between our dogs and the people who need them, and offer our dogs and services throughout the United States. One day my physiologist suggested a service dog for TBI, and PTSD. I am looking forward to my continued journey. 06/19/2018. Friendships have been formed and are ever lasting. hgfytr 11/21/2020. Throughout my journey in raising a future service dog, the organization has been extremely helpful and supportive in providing educational materials, specific training feedback, and support when I need it. All of our services—which include selective breeding and expert dog training; comprehensive on-campus student instruction; and the most robust alumni support program in North America—are provided at no cost to recipients. Discover the freedom to see the world in a whole new way. The main campus and park where the dogs are being trained and where students learn is located on 4210 77th Street, Palmetto, FL 34221. The campus buildings are recently built and you feel as though you are on a college campus for humans. All of our services—which include selective breeding and expert dog training; comprehensive on-campus student instruction; and the most robust alumni support program in North America—are provided at no cost to recipients. The staff, volunteers and trainers all work together with the goal of giving these dogs the very best care, training, affection and love so they can be a life changer for someone in need. Visit our campus for a personal tour we are open and transparent and see what we do.We transform lives and give people an enhanced and a new beginning in life. GOD BLESS to all of you. When my husband and I retired to Sarasota, Florida, I was thrilled to see a highway billboard announcing that Southeastern Guide Dogs was close by. 07/30/2019. Jeanette P.1 12/26/2018. Russell Smith, Army Veteran and service dog Mustang, CAMPUS The chef did an outstanding job.I would definitely come back to this school when I need to get another dog once my retires. Marcia G.1 06/22/2018. Everyone is amazing and the dogs never cease to bring a smile to my face. All of our services—which include selective breeding and expert dog training; comprehensive on-campus student instruction; and the most robust alumni support program in North America—are provided at no cost to recipients. Each room has its own patio with and an astroturf area for your service dog to use to go to the bathroom. 02/28/2019, I began volunteering with SEGD in November of 2018. Volunteer I joined Southeastern Guide Dogs because of their mission to support this community and my love for dogs (yes, I'm a life long Labrador owner). First step: Medication. It is a wonderful feeling to know that I am helping change someone's life and having fun in the process! It was not until I arrived home that I realized how well Southeast Guide Dogs had prepared me and my new best friend,Ella, to navigate the world beyond my own front door. General Member of the Public Who wouldn't love following a puppy's journey as they grow up to become a guide dog? And then they get their dogs--their guide dogs and service dogs--and everything changes. The facility itself is gorgeous. Since then, I've had the opportunity to volunteer in several other areas - assisting in the early education of our puppies, working at the front desk in our Student Center, conducting tours on our 33-acre campus, helping out with public events and fundraising for the annual Walkathon and sponsoring/naming five puppies. I called it a “coping mechanism”. Unlike most best friends, mine is covered in fur, has a tail that wags like a top notch propeller, and instead of a handshake he prefers licking my face until it appears as if I just came out of the shower. You will not regret your decision. Thankful for the ongoing support I have through Southeastern Guide Dogs as well. Outstanding program for the recipients and everyone involved in making it happen. Excellent organization to volunteer for in many diverse roles that provide assistance for the puppies and young adult dogs along with the students. My wife was concerned and suggested that I might want to look into getting a guide dog. Nothing was right, but I tried to force myself to act like it was. The stories, I have heard, from the graduate handlers are amazing, and life changing. 01/30/2020. Volunteer The organization offers a wide variety of volunteer opportunities, all supported by an exceptional staff. I am a two-time puppy raiser and avid supporter. With Luna leading my way, I know that my future is bright! Little did I know, March 16th would be the day that my life would change forever. The leadership in place has a passion to help people, to help dogs find their best unique place, and to pursue the mission with excellence. My new best friend’s name was “Hooch”. Our organization employs some of the most talented and innovative scientists and trainers in the working-dog industry and operates the most advanced training facilities of any service dog organization in the world. Once you go you will want to be involved. 08/03/2019. The staff were available to answer all my questions, even the dumb ones, before and during class with a wonderful positive attitude. Direct beneficiaries per year: In fiscal year 2020, we supported 585 active teams who gave us a 99.6% student satisfaction rating. They really do change people’s lives. Southeastern Guide Dogs, Inc. truly changes people's lives! As a volunteer we are able to help them with caring for the dogs at different stages in their growth and training from birth to graduation. Volunteer This fine organization relies solely on donations from the public and businesses to sustain its core mission. I have been volunteering there for over 3 years and witness the gift we give to the blind and PTSD sufferers on a weekly basis! I currently volunteer with SEGD in many capacities, both on campus and as a puppy raiser. The first Southeastern Guide Dogs canine was a black Labrador Retriever named Freedom, and the longest name that has been given was the regal-sounding Sir Maverick of Monaco.Southeastern Guide Dogs is located in in Palmetto, Florida, about 45 minutes south of the Tampa Bay area, and the school was founded in 1982. With all of these medications, I still could not escape the pain, guilt, regret, and hatred towards myself that I was constantly feeling. We placed 54 guide dogs with people with vision loss and 31 dogs into careers benefitting veterans. Please include at least one social/website link containing a recent photo of the actor. The care that is shown to all is above and beyond . Southeastern Guide Dogs has served people with visual impairments and veterans for more than 35 years. I've been a volunteer for a little over 5 years and love every minute of my time spent on campus! I have been volunteering at Southeastern Guide Dogs for over five wonderful years. "There are a lot of charity's one can give money to. I am thrilled to have found Southeast Guide Dog to volunteer at. They not only educate and train their guide dogs and service dogs and students but they also educate and train their volunteers! I began my journey as a puppy raiser. 10/06/2020. Southeastern Guide Dogs is a very unique and special organization that provides service dogs to the blind as well as Veterans. From breeding and raising them to training these magnificent animals for visually impaired people and service men and women who need that someone special in their lives. I was intrigued by his story and that of SEGD. Volunteer It all started when I attended a Southeastern Guide Dogs presentation the Creation of a Superheroes in 2016, this organization stole my heart. This is just a wonderful, positive place! OR Aaron J. Leslie J. R. Facebook 10/05/2020. Health, This is a fantastic organization that cares about veterans and want to help. 09/05/2019. It has changed my life. Everything is so well done here. All my hard work is rewarded when I go to the Puppy Academy and to bathe puppies! As a new volunteer I am just blown away by all that goes into the making of these wonderful "hero" dogs and all by donation only. We are currently raising our 2nd puppy for the school which has been so rewarding! 5, I was blessed to be able to spend some time at SEGD getting to know my forever friend. A special thanks to Southeastern Guide Dogs for saving my life by bringing me together with, my best friend, Hooch. After months of paperwork and going through the eligibility process, I was approved for a Veteran service dog provided by Southeastern Guide Dogs of Palmetto, FL. Volunteer So Southeastern Guide Dogs is a place in Palmetto, Florida to request a visit and your heart will be stolen too. I quickly saw first hand why they received all of these reviews and most importantly that all of them were true and not made up by people paid to post positive reviews. Leslie J. R. I am a personal friend of two people who are each a recipient of a Southeastern dog, one legally blind and the other a Veteran and I've had the up close privilege of seeing what these dogs mean to them. We were absolutely in awe of everything they have accomplished and the wonderful work that is done to transform people lives. Client Served Perfect. 08/07/2019. “The Southeastern Guide Dogs Story,” is designed to introduce who we are, what we do, and why. Southeastern Guide Dogs transforms lives by creating and nurturing extraordinary partnerships between people and dogs. I am proud to be a part of this well oiled machine ! If you are a donor, puppy raiser or sponsor, thank you from the bottom of my heart. We had raised three puppies for Guiding Eyes for the Blind in Syracuse and then Albany, New York, and I was excited to think about being a part of another organization that offered these magnificent dogs to visually impaired folks. ADI is a coalition of nonprofit organizations that train and place Assistance Dogs with individuals with disabilities to improve their quality of life with greater independence. I want to thank Southeastern Guide Dogs Inc. And all the sponsors, donors and everyone else that make all this possible for us vets. I reconnected with people, who I considered a threat to me, only to know that they’ve cared for me the entire time. When veterans lose hope, it’s easy to give up. Southeastern is a great organization that is run by some of the most caring and amazing people! This is about my recovery and the goldador who made such a thing possible for me. We were visiting family and we came to see and interact with the puppies. dmhess 12/22/2019. 5 star organization from top to bottom. The staff works diligently to find the perfect fit for every volunteer. Chats with the CEO: Tracy Krauss and Facility Therapy Dog Patty Mac The campus is well maintained. Client Served I had looked at multiple schools and from first phone call Southeastern Guide Dogs was a cut above the rest. 07/30/2019. My first full day home we went for a walk at Universal City Walk and it was amazing. I eased into a volunteer role as a Puppy Sitter, giving respite to Puppy Raisers and have sponsored 9 pups or students since my early involvement After 7 years, I made the leap to Puppy Raiser. Dana A.1 Volunteer The staff and volunteers are so involved and have created a great community that shares a bond over our love for animals and of course helping these awesome puppies become super heroes! I love seeing the puppies as they grow and then go to their puppy raiser for a year, but the best reward is when I see them come back a year later as grown dogs in Canine University. Thank you to all of the volunteers, puppy raisers, and team members at Southeastern Guide Dogs. This short video encapsulates our mission in a few powerful minutes. If you can help in any way, I hope you will. I've spoken to veterans with PTSD who can't seem to forget the memories of Afghanistan, Iraq, and even Vietnam. Great organization pursuing a great mission. The staff of Southeastern Guide Dogs will release the hounds and velvety bundles of energy to interact with you all. Happy dogs - happy people! I contribute with time and financials and believe both are well spent. Southeastern Guide Dogs ‍. The school was very young then with huge potential. 06/26/2018. Last month I was lucky enough to graduate from Southeastern Guide Dogs with my new guide. Immediately, I was diagnosed with a Traumatic Brain Injury, and PTSD. Volunteer Its like we been together for years. Our experts breed, raise, and train elite working dogs—including guide dogs, service dogs, and skilled companion dogs—and provide life-changing services for people with vision loss, veterans with disabilities, and children with significant challenges such as vision loss or the loss of a parent in the military. No matter what your contribution, you feel like you are helping the recipient of these amazing dogs to live a better life. The love and devotion shown to the puppies and dogs by the employees and volunteers is something that has to be witnessed firsthand. 08/12/2020. We employ some of the most talented and innovative scientists and trainers in the working-dog industry and operate the most advanced training facilities of any service dog organization in the world. Client Served jglasco They took their time to help me through with all the necessary commands i had to learn to graduate. https://www.facebook.com/southeasternguidedogs/videos/3877387772281785 Southeastern provides all their services absolutely free of charge. 03/20/2019, Omg what can I say, In the first week of training and I can already see how my dog Bowen will improve my life, he keeps me calm helps me get around, knows when I am hurting and distracts my mind, no Better Program for vets, EdgarGarcia It my time volunteering, I've seen the singular dedication to mission of the professional staff and volunteers to support this community. 07/31/2019. Please consider volunteering in some capacity for this organization! I have attended many of the dog walks in Bradenton and last year the park earned the right to name a puppy. I’d like to take the time to tell my story of how Southeastern Guide Dogs saved my life by giving me my best friend, Hooch. 12/17/2020, Rating: We’ve been invited to a few recipient graduations and an event showcasing the work and support that is given to our precious war veterans and their families. Military & Veterans Organizations, Volunteer There is a very large number of volunteers- 350+ - and the communication, the opportunities and the training is like no other. The facilities are way modern, clean and beyond ecxpectations. No government funds are used and ALL dogs are provided free of charge - including continued follow up visits. My introduction to SEGD was at a graduation. Cons. There is a genuine passion here! I am a disabled veteran with PTSD and physical issues. My brother loves it! What a wonderful group of staff members and volunteers; such a positive environment. Rather, they recognize how much value we contribute to the organization not to mention how much money we save them in payroll and benefits. Target demographics: People with visual impairments, veterans with disabilities, and children with significant challenges such as vision loss or loss of a parent in the military. ASkulsky So much passion and energy goes into bringing these dogs to people that need them, blabla1 Everyone was so accommodating and willing to work with us students. Volunteer I highly recommend Southeastern Guide Dogs to anyone looking for a place to donate time, resources or money! I am so proud to be associated with this fine organization and the Caring people on staff and in volunteer roles. I saw another puppy raiser out and about with their puppy wearing Southeastern Guide Dog's dintinctive blue coat and I knew I had my answer. I hear the commotion in the hallways consisting of multiple footsteps, and whatever was moving was moving with a purpose. Volunteer They exceed all the standards of excellence they strive for, and bring hope, independence and confidence to deserving individuals, day after day. The best thing about SEGD is the fact that they do not charge the recipient anything for a fully well trained guide dog. Volunteers are truly appreciated, and volunteers feel they contributed to the successful match between Guide/Service dog and its handler. Hope you will find anywhere when my husband ( Joe Ligi ) weeding and keeping all gardens... Recognized a common ground & immediately wanted to give to so many shared by of... Or money new Handlers a more deserving service organization fingers along the wall or counting steps the. To realize that I am a disabled Veteran with PTSD those in need is so heartwarming associated. Or sponsor, thank you from the moment I arrived at the videos on our.! And current puppy raisers, and a half and they are in service the “campus” of! 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