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  • Donor Profile

  • Gerry Weber: Donor since 2001

Gerry, holding her first sponsored puppy, Jack, named after her late husband. Jack is now eight years old and working in Indiana.

Why did you start donating in 2001?

Being part of Leader Dog helped me work through my grief and sadness after my husband passed away. One night on TV I watched a program about blindness. It compelled me to go to Leader Dog the next morning to see how I could help.

I decided to donate money for a German Shepherd puppy. A week later, a couple was coming in from Iowa, Carol Ann and Randy Kirkbride, to pick up a German Shepherd puppy they were raising for the school for one year. I spent time with the Kirkbrides and we quickly became friends. Randy and Carol Ann are now like my adopted kids. They make many trips to Leader Dog, sometimes several times a month, and they spend time with me on each visit. They even call me "Mom."

Carol Ann and Randy are responsible for the puppy program at the Iowa Correctional Facility. Last year I was able to visit the prison and learn more about the program. I must tell you, my life was changed after seeing the prisoners work with the puppies.

Why do you continue to give to Leader Dog?

I think Leader Dog is the best nonprofit in the world! For over 70 years they have been helping the blind to see — with a four-legged hero. Leader Dog has not had one blemish in their 70 years. That is rare in this day and age. I know that my dollars have a direct impact on the life of a blind or Deaf-blind person.

Greg, the new president, is doing a terrific job of taking care of the organization and securing its future. I know many of the employees and I feel they are special people who are dedicated to the mission — not the job.

What would you like to say to current or potential donors?

At Leader Dog you can witness the change in the lives of people who are blind. You see tears in their eyes as their dogs guide them down the street or around campus.

Leader Dog has done so much more for me than I have done for them. Everybody should give, even just a little. If you give a little, try to give more. We must keep the school going for another 70 years!

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