Vicki Simons

Nike is my 7^th dog I’ve raised for Canine Companions for Independence and my 3^rd dog to graduate. It’s extremely gratifying. The ultimate goal is to see the dog you raised graduate, but there is so much more to the journey.

We welcome these little miracles into our hearts and homes at just 8 weeks old. We train and social them from day one. We go on walks and hikes and vacations together. We train and socialize at lots of fun and unique places. We do presentations and represent at information booths at various events to spread awareness and recruit volunteers. Nike helped me inspire two new puppy raisers who have joined the Canine Companions family, and the Northern Ohio Chapter and I have gained new friendships.

We got to travel to TEAM 2016 and visit the Santa Rosa headquarters together where we met one of Nike’s littermates and lots of puppy raisers, breeder caretakers, graduates, staff and assistance dogs in training. We stayed an extra day with our Chapter friends and went sightseeing in San Francisco.

Nike graduated as a facility dog. He works in a school system with special needs children. He will inspire and motivate them, build confidence, and be a friend. What a beautiful end to a wonderful journey!

Joan Cikra

We are so excited to have Joan Cikra heading up this year’s DogFest Cleveland for the second year in a row. Joan’s passion for Canine Companions for Independence stems from watching the way her daughter Emily’s service dog, Dash, has impacted Emily’s life by enhancing her independence and confidence as a woman with a disability. “In addition to that,” says Joan, “Dash also brings our family joy in knowing that Emily’s needs will be met when we are not there to assist her. A dropped cell phone or an out-of-reach remote is no longer a concern!”

Joan and the rest of the Northern Ohio Chapter are very excited that Medina is hosting this year’s DogFest again on Sunday, September 24th. It promises to be a great dog-friendly, family-oriented event that raises awareness and funds for Canine Companions for Independence! Learn more at cci.org/cleveland.

Lisa Dare

My husband and I are long time dog lovers. There isn’t a dog that passes by that we don’t greet. After a 20 plus year career in sales and traveling the country, it was time for me to pursue a personal passion. Although I am a first-time puppy raiser, I knew that my love for dogs, my nurturing nature and my love for helping people were key ingredients for me to join forces with Canine Companions for Independence. I did a lot of research and instantly fell in love with the mission of Canine Companions. Having the opportunity to meet the great community of puppy raisers within the Northern Ohio Chapter of Canine Companions was the icing on the cake. I was hooked instantly.

My husband and I enjoy every minute with Schumann. He has touched our lives more than we could ever have imagined. The journey has only just begun...