Sanibel-Captiva Lions Rick Wagner, second from left, Jeff MacDonald and Bob Kern, present a donation to Southeastern Guide Dogs Carole Bloom, left, and Ron Bloom, right.
The Sanibel & Captiva Lions Club has been a longtime supporter of the Southeastern Guide Dogs organization that pairs well-trained dogs with the visually impaired and veterans who suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. It’s for those who cannot see and those who have seen too much.
“It’s not really our goal to be the biggest organization training guide dogs, just the best,” said Ron Bloom of Southeastern Guide Dogs, who was the guest speaker, along with Carole Bloom, at the Lions regular dinner meeting March 7. “We train 100 dogs per year and there is a 20-day training program for the recipient, who receives a dog for life through us.”
Southeastern Guide Dogs Ron Bloom speaks to the Sanibel-Captiva Lions
Southeastern Guide Dogs transforms lives by creating and nurturing extraordinary partnerships between people and dogs, throughout the United States. It’s a nonprofit training dogs of the highest pedigree – all without government funds. “The most impressive thing about working with this organization is meeting those who have received a dog and hear their story,” said Ron. “It truly changes their life.”
The public is invited to meet Southeastern Guide Dogs during the 35th annual Lions Fine Arts & Crafts Fair. There are more than 100 exhibitors and silent auction items, as well as amazing raffle items, food and beverages. It’s from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, March 16 and 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, March 17 at the Sanibel Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way.
The Sanibel-Captiva Lions Club meet the first and third Wednesday of each month at the Sanibel Community House. Visiting Lions are welcome.