The Atlas Newsletter - October 2024

VISION GUIDE DOGS

NEWSLETTER

OCTOBER 2024

[Image: The Vision Guide Dogs logo features a winding road with a guide dog standing in the center and "Vision Guide Dogs" printed in the upper-right corner. Next to the logo it reads "Navigate the World."]

FALL-elujah!

[Image: Yellow Labrador retriever and guide dog-in-training Buddy in a sit-stay position in front of a lantana plant with yellow flowers.]

'Tis the season for cooler weather—at least that's what the calendar says! Texas doesn't seem to have gotten the memo, but we hope some crisp, refreshing days are just around the corner. We could all use a break from the heat, especially our pups! Regardless of the weather, this season is always a time of reflection and gratitude for us, especially after the recent Big Give campaign. Whether you volunteered your time, pledged a donation, or simply cheered us on, you've made a huge difference, and we're beyond grateful for your support.

Happy fall from all of us at Vision Guide Dogs! You're truly unbe-LEAF-able, and we're sending only GOURD vibes your way 🧡 🐾

Puppy Pics

[Image: Guide dog-in-training Elroy in a down-stay position in front of a raised vegetable garden at the Pearl historic district.]

[Image: Guide dog-in-training Starry is in a down-stay position while training at Bass Pro Shops.]

[Image: Guide dog-in-training Buddy eating a Chicken N Pickle pup cup to celebrate his 1st birthday.]

[Image: Guide dog-in-training Joy is in a sit-stay position in front of the children's mechanical dinosaur rides at the Ingram Mall.]

[Image: Guide dog-in-training Buddy is in a sit-stay position in front of our booth at our Chicken N Pickle Big Give kick-off celebration.]

Upcoming Events

[Image: Digital flyer that reads, "October 15, 2024. 60th Annual White Cane Day Celebration." There is a photo of a woman using a white cane to safely walk across a white and yellow striped crosswalk.]

60th Annual White Cane Day Celebration:

Guiding the way to inclusion and awareness...Join us as we celebrate the critical role that the white cane plays in the lives of so many individuals who are blind or visually impaired. While it is an essential tool for increasing safety, we celebrate the white cane as a symbol of independence. We also celebrate other forms of assistance that increase independence and accessibility including guide dogs.

Date: October 15, 2024

Time: 9:00 am - 2:00 pm

Location: Yanaguana Garden at Hemisfair Park

[Image: Digital flyer that reads, "Fest of Tails. Kite Festival and Dog Fair." There is a profile of a dog in a sit-stay position with a kite string attached to his tail and a green leaf flying above him.]

Fest of Tails:

Where kites soar and tails wag! We'll be at this family-friendly event and hope you will be too! Together let's celebrate the wonder of kites, our four-legged friends, and community spirit. There will be music, food, a pooch parade, giveaways, and more! To register your dog for the pooch parade and costume contest, click on the button below.

Date: October 19, 2024

Time: 9:00 am - 2:00 pm

Admission: Free

Location: McAllister Park

POOCH PARADE

Lend a Helping Hand

[Image: Photo of puppy raiser Annette Hennesey holding guide dog-in-training Joy when she was a few months old. The text reads, "got heart?" The background is deep purple with light purple pawprints.]

Puppy Raisers Needed:

Raise a puppy, change a life. For just over a year you will help one of our guide dogs-in-training grow and learn how to navigate the world. You will take the puppy along on your everyday activities, walk them daily, and teach them basic obedience and house manners. We'll give you all the support you need and show you how to raise a future guide dog. VGD will cover the cost of dog food, equipment, and veterinary care.

Not able to commit to being a full-time puppy raiser? Puppy-sitting may be for you! As a puppy sitter, you will fill in when a puppy raiser travels or needs help. We'll equip you with all the tools you'll need as you step in for short-term puppy joy!

Make a difference by being a part of a guide dog's journey—get started today!

*Must be 18 years old to apply.

APPLICATION

Around Town

[Image: The black and white logo for Tandem Coffee Shop with the words, "Tandem Coffee/Beer/Wine" in the center and the profile of a tandem bicycle above.]

Tandem Coffee Shop:

Where coffee and community meet. Located in the vibrant Southside of San Antonio just steps away from the San Antonio River, Tandem Coffee Shop offers a unique experience for coffee enthusiasts and community lovers alike. Proudly serving Dark Matter Coffee, Tandem takes pride in crafting their own in-house syrups, adding a personal touch to every drink. Tandem is more than just a place to grab a coffee—it's a hub for local culture and entertainment.

Tandem is owned and operated by San Antonio natives Noah and Curtis, who share a passion for community, the Spurs, and all things extraterrestrial. The shop hosts a variety of events, including concerts, comedy nights, and open mic sessions every Thursday, ensuring there's always something exciting happening. With happy hour specials every day, Tandem is the perfect spot to relax, socialize, and enjoy the best San Antonio has to offer. Bring your friends, family, and dogs, and come support a local business!

Tandem Coffee Shop, thanks a latte for your ongoing support of the Vision Guide Dogs mission. Whether it's assisting us at local events or hosting us for our Fiesta medal sales, we appreciate that you are always willing to DO in the spirit of community.

TANDEM

Newsletter Sign-up

Hey, Reader! Did you enjoy what you read? If so, please forward this newsletter to a friend!

Hi There, Friend! If you wish to receive future newsletters directly, click on the button below to sign up!

NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP