Written by Mike Dengate, Leader Dog On-Campus Volunteer
I worked in Philanthropy as a member of the Lions team for about a dozen years. During that time, I traveled throughout the United States and Canada, representing Leader Dog at Lions meetings and conventions, raising both awareness and funds. Founded by Lions 86 years ago, this organization continues to donate $2.5 million annually to support our mission. Upon retiring from that role, I began volunteering in client services.
Now, I call prospective and current clients for various reasons. Sometimes I’m responding to requests for information about our services. Other times, I call someone who just completed orientation & mobility (white cane) or our guide dog program and has returned home. We value their feedback on their transportation experience from campus to the airport, their volunteer driver, their walk to check-in, and their interaction with TSA. Often, the same volunteer who brought them to campus also took them to the airport. They’ve already established a relationship and can share in the excitement of the experience.
Although our applications are available online, some potential clients don’t have internet access or aren’t comfortable using computers. I call to assist them, helping reduce the anxiety that can accompany the beginning of their journey with Leader Dog.
My favorite calls are the client satisfaction surveys, conducted approximately 30 days after program completion. These conversations give clients an opportunity to share their entire Leader Dog experience. They rate various aspects like food quality, accommodations, resident assistants, their instructors, and how prepared they feel to travel safely and independently with their new cane or guide dog.
I’ve always said that when I grew up, I wanted to be part of client services. I’m not sure I’ve grown up yet, but I have achieved that goal. This volunteer work is truly the most rewarding thing I have ever done.