This has been an extremely busy time at D4D with our move to the new training center, continuing with all our regular training activities and work with our clients, supporters, volunteers and staff as well as completing a very successful year end mail campaign.
Five years ago, I stepped into a new role with D4D, after serving as a Board Member and Treasurer, to become the Executive Director. It has been a wonderful experience and allowed me to meet many new and prospective clients, volunteers and others who have become a part of our community. As part of that role, I was involved with other members of the Board, in interviewing a number of qualified candidates to fill the role of Development Director. Our objective was to build D4D’s ability to deliver its mission and assure its continuity for the future.
Our transition plan allows me to continue in my volunteer role with D4D, as a member of the Board and Director of Finance. As a long time banking professional, I enjoy this work and hope to continue as long as my services are supportive. I love the community and service that D4D provides and hope to interact with all of you in this continuing role.
I would like to thank everyone for the great success that our year end mail campaign enjoyed. This allows us to continue to train more dogs, including introducing rescue dogs, from our partnership with Tony La Russo’s Animal Rescue Foundation. This is a wonderful addition to our program, allowing D4D to build our program to serve people who may not be able to handle the wonderful Labs and Goldens we receive from our long-time cherished partner, Guide Dogs for the Blind. We know that each of these dogs will make a difference in the lives of our clients.
Having now completed our move to the new training center, I would like to thank the Ruefenacht Family for their generosity in making this wonderful facility available for D4D’s future. I particularly want to thank Les Ruefenacht, who has been instrumental in the entire project, including actually making the move happen along with the dedicated support of one of our clients and devoted volunteers, Sandy Zied.
Sincerely, Ralph Hendrix
Director of Finance and Vice President
