National Volunteer Week: The Gift of Time
This April 19-25, 2026, is National Volunteer Appreciation Week in the United States. It is a reminder for all of us to stop and give thanks to the many, many people who volunteer their time to make a difference in the lives of others in their community and beyond.
At Leader Dog, we see this gift of time as one of the most precious gifts we can receive. We realize that there are many volunteer opportunities out there and we feel incredibly honored that our volunteers choose to spend time with us.
We have volunteers in every aspect of our organization giving the gift of time. Whether they volunteer on campus caring for canines, host a breeding dog, raise a puppy or at one of our special events, each hour fills a need that we have and helps move our mission forward.
We are so grateful for the many volunteers who move our mission forward, we could not achieve everything we do without them. Follow us this week as we hear from a variety of volunteers about the incredible work they do for Leader Dogs for the Blind.
Written by Melissa Pletcher, Manager of Volunteer Engagement
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Join Us For Bark and Brew 5K!
Presented by Chief Financial Credit Union - June 7, 2026
Kick off your summer with a fun and scenic run through Downtown Rochester, MI. All proceeds from the Bark & Brew 5K directly support Leader Dog’s life‑changing programs and services, provided at no cost to people who are blind or have low vision.
In-person participants receive a race t-shirt, large medal, race bib, and a coupon for a free, age-appropriate beverage and food item at the post-race party.
LAST CHANCE to take advantage of our Matching Gift Challenge
Support our $60,000 Matching Gift Challenge and have your gift DOUBLED!
Join Us For Dinner in the Dark!
Presented by AAA The Auto Club Group - March 20, 2026
Our signature fundraiser will take place at the Palazzo Grande in Shelby Township, MI. Every dollar raised supports life-changing programs at no cost to our clients, empowering people who are blind or low vision to live independent, confident lives.
The evening includes a family style dinner, an open bar, hors d'oeuvres, an ice cream and cannoli platter, an espresso station, and on-location parking.
A New Issue of the Faithful Friends Newsletter Is Out!
In our latest Faithful Friends newsletter, we highlight ways we are helping Leader Dog clients — and we invite you to learn how you can make a difference.