Just as modern medicine and therapy continues to help give wounded U.S. military veterans a new lease on life, a program called Paws for Patriots is giving those who have lost their sight, mobility or other things a new “leash” on happiness and companionship.
Paws for Patriots is a program from Southeastern Guide Dogs that pairs veterans with guide dogs – well-trained canines that can help them navigate the environment while also providing comfort. The program, launched in 2006, identifies about 100 veterans annually who could each benefit from a service dog. This happens at no cost to the veterans and with no government funding.
That’s where TECO team members stepped in recently with a fundraiser that brought in more than $1,300 and other donated items for Paws for Patriots.
Debbie Duvall Griffin, compensation analyst, who coordinated the drive, thanked those at TECO who made it a success – including Noriel Castro, Cathy Pettway, Ricky Boyette, Tim Griffin, John Peurrung and Maribel Vega.
Griffin highlighted the critically important things Paws for Patriots helps address.
“You’ve probably heard about the high suicide rate of our veterans – on average, 22 of our soldiers who suffer from PTSD and other struggles commit suicide each day,” she said. “To date, recipients of the Paws for Patriots companions have never experienced this tragedy. It truly means a lot to our heroes, including a newfound freedom for people who fought to protect ours.”
In addition to money raised for Paws for Patriots, the fundraiser also collected raffle items for the upcoming 10th Annual golf tournament at Riverhills Country Club, with all proceeds benefiting the Paws for Patriots campaign.
“This is the second year we’ve come together in support of the men and women in our military branches who selflessly serve our country,” Griffin said. “Recognizing and appreciating the contributions of active-duty service members and veterans is part of our culture at TECO, and Paws for Patriots provides a way we can thank them and truly make a difference in their lives at the same time.”
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