Making a difference

People choose to support Guide Dogs for a variety of reasons, like the ones below.

Some people have had a close bond with a family pet, and want to support a charity that works with and depends on the same trusting relationship with dogs.

Peter initially set up a tribute fund in memory of his fiancé, Vanessa – they both loved golden retrievers – and the fund is now supported by Vanessa’s mother and sister. Peter said: “I think the idea of the tribute fund is one of the best I’ve ever come across because it’s such a personal thing to do, and you know that what you’ve contributed achieves something very specific.”

Some people have a friend who’s blind or partially sighted and have seen the difference a guide dog can make, or some people have simply grown up with Guide Dogs and want to help safeguard the charity’s future.

Shelagh's mum, Janet, had always shown a keen interest in Guide Dogs’ work, so Shelagh felt that establishing a tribute fund would be a good way to support Guide Dogs and keep her mother’s memory alive. Shelagh’s father, Geoffrey, supported her in her fundraising, and now he is also remembered through the fund after he sadly passed away a few years later. Shelagh said: “Saving to name our puppy in their memory helps us to feel we’re doing something useful with our time. We’d rather give to that than spend money on flowers on their anniversaries. Also, having the opportunity to arrange events to support the fund gives a great boost and allows us to help others while remembering mum and dad.”

The reasons, whatever they are, are personal and close to people’s hearts. We wanted to share some of the many moving stories we hear at Guide Dogs. In doing so, these supporters are helping to transform the lives of blind and partially sighted people across the UK.