Guide Dog News
2015, Issue #2
COVER PHOTO
GDB Alumna Michelle Yoo with guide Oscar
INSIDE
 New Leash on Life: GDB career change dogs are doing wonderful things in their new jobs, including
conservation work and medical detection, among other things.
 What’s Cooking? Meet GDB’s chefs, Catherine Coppett and David Wilson. These two whip up
delectable meals for our clients attending class at our campuses.
 Alumni Spotlight: Meet JR Quevedo, a talented artist from San Francisco, who has found new
inspiration for his work in his guide dog, yellow Lab Griff.
In Remembrance
Guide Dogs for the Blind recently said goodbye to two longtime champions of our mission.
Richard D. Graffis (1932-2015) of Orinda, Calif., was an enthusiastic volunteer, leader, and supporter at GDB,
and was always a friendly face on our California campus and at our fundraising events. Dick served on our
board of directors for ten years, including a two-year term as board chair.
John Paul Manzella (1928-2015) of San Leandro, Calif., was also an ardent supporter of GDB. Not only was
John a loyal attendee of our Festive Holiday Luncheon (he is pictured, left at the Luncheon with his wife, Lola,
in 2004), he produced annual golf tournaments for many years to benefit Guide Dogs for the Blind. In
addition, John served on the California State Board of Guide Dogs for the Blind between 1984 and 2003.
We thank Dick and John for their generosity and support, and our condolences go to their families and loved
ones.
GREETINGS FROM THE CEO
Dear friends,
Welcome to the second issue of Guide Dogs News for 2015. I hope you are having a great year thus far!
At GDB, we strongly believe that every dog makes a difference. We are more committed than ever to
partnering exceptional guide dogs with exceptional people. We find great joy in seeing our alumni and their
guides thriving together. We look forward to seeing many of these teams in the Fall at our Alumni Reunion
and Retreat in Portland, Ore. See page 11 to learn more about this exciting event.
I am also happy to share that we continue to deepen our commitment to finding opportunities for our career
change dogs to serve in significant ways. We have strengthened our relationships with other leading
assistance dog agencies and non-profit organizations. It is amazing to see how many different ways dogs are
enhancing our lives through these organizations’ efforts: they are engaged in life-saving medical alert and
search and rescue work; help provide emotional support to individuals experiencing PTSD and testifying in
difficult court cases; bestow a nurturing and positive presence for hospital patients and their families, and
even help conservation efforts by identifying rare plants and/or pests that threaten them. And, we are equally
proud of our dogs who are blessing families with their loyal and loving companionship. We are so proud that
our career change dogs are making a difference in the world and extend our deepest gratitude to our amazing
puppy raisers who have invested their hearts, souls, and expertise in preparing puppies to fulfill their
particular purpose.
Warm regards,
Christine Benninger, President and CEO
President’s Circle Profile
When Elaine Wilderman of Beaverton, Ore., was a third grade teacher, she incorporated education about
service animals into her curriculum, teaching her students that animals have many different roles in the world
in addition to being pets. She’d invite GDB puppy raisers to her class to share their stories, and had a goal to
raise a puppy herself when she retired.
That goal was met in 2006 when she raised Black Labrador Retriever Clark, who went on to become a guide
dog in Washington. She then set her sights on another goal: adopting a GDB career change or retired guide
dog and becoming certified as a canine therapy team. Enter Black Lab Ashlyn, a guide dog that had been
retired due to glaucoma. After adopting Ashlyn, the duo went on to complete their canine therapy team
certification. Elaine was thrilled that Ashlyn continued to lead a long, purposeful life with her new job.
When Ashlyn passed away, Elaine thought she might take a break from having a dog, but fate had different
plans. Clark—the puppy she had raised—had been retired from guidework and was available for adoption.
“There was no doubt that I would bring him home,” Elaine said. She and Clark have followed in Ashlyn’s paw
prints, becoming a certified canine therapy team. They are members of the PACTT program (Portland Area
Canine Therapy Teams), a partnership between GDB and DoveLewis Emergency Animal Hospital which
certifies retired or career change dogs from GDB as therapy dogs, and then connects the teams with
volunteer opportunities at various facilities, such as nursing homes and hospitals. “Clark’s favorite is the read
to the dogs program at a local library,” Elaine said, “he loves working with the kids!”
As a GDB President’s Circle member, Elaine said that it’s our care of the dogs that inspires her support.
“Guide Dogs for the Blind ensures that the dogs have good and healthy lives after retirement,” she said. With
her firm belief in giving back to the community, Elaine does that both in spirit and in deed. Thank you, Elaine,
for your support of Guide Dogs for the Blind.
Pictured: Elaine Wilderman with retired guide, now PACTT therapy dog, Clark.
Career Change Corner
Our career change dogs are making a huge difference in communities across North America. Here are
snapshots of four incredible dogs. Follow us on Facebook or visit our blog, No Bones About it,
guidedogs.blogspot.com, for
more great stories.
Cabo serves as a court dog for the San Diego District attorney’s office and is also a certified therapy dog who
has worked in a variety of settings, including: a Veterans Administration Hospital to visit wounded soldiers,
hospice care and hospitals, library reading programs for children, developmental adult centers, nursing
homes, women’s shelters, and others.
Kilo is currently being trained in Northern California by Working Dogs for Conservation (WDC.) This non-profit
organization trains dogs for scent detection work to locate invasive and/or endangered plant and animal life.
wd4c.org
Izumi is being trained to be a medical alert dog by Dogs4Diabetics (D4D). D4D is a charitable non-profit
organization of dedicated volunteers training medical alert dogs to detect hypoglycemia in insulin-dependent
diabetics. dogs4diabetics.com
Tolkien is partnered with a veteran experiencing PTSD. Tolkien was trained by Paws Assisting Veterans
(PAVE), a non-profit organization dedicated to training service dogs for veterans with mental and/or physical
disabilities and to advance public knowledge of service dogs and the essential roles they play. paveusa.org
BOARD PROFILE
How many people do you know who actually have their dream job? Happily, GDB Board Member Andy
Mathieson is one of them. Andy is the founder and managing partner of Fairview Capital, an independent
advisory firm with over $1.6 billion in assets under management. Andy shares, “I have my dream job—running
an investment firm, managing a talented team, and working with great clients. It was also an ideal job as my
wife Ann and I were raising our four kids. It enabled me to be present and involved in the way I really wanted
to be.” He adds with a chuckle, “I also used to dream of being a center fielder, helping to bring a world
championship to long-suffering Red Sox and/or Cubs fans. I guess the job is still available with regard to the
Cubs.”
Andy’s position on the GDB board began in 2011 and he brings deep financial and non-profit expertise to the
role as well as his lifelong interest in dogs. He shares, “I’ve had a lot of non-profit board experience, and given
my professional background I’m usually tasked with financial and development roles. I’m comfortable serving
as a fiduciary, and my attitude is to try and support the mission however and whenever I can.” GDB’s mission
really struck a chord with Andy, as he is also an avid dog lover having grown up with several different breeds,
including: a Beagle, a Gordon Setter, and a Terrier. He and his wife have adopted three rescue Terriers, two
of which are
still living with the couple. Andy and Ann love to take the dogs out for long walks on Mt. Tamalpais and he
also enjoys running, cycling, and enjoying the outdoors.
Andy is extremely passionate about GDB’s mission and loves seeing it come to life: “The graduations are
always inspirational, and a great reminder and validation of our reason for being. I also greatly enjoy meeting
the volunteers that are so critical to our organization.” Andy is an ardent ambassador for GDB and wishes
there were a few things that everyone knew. “First, I wish that people knew that we don’t charge for any
aspect of our services,” he said. “Second, that this highly unique model is made possible only through the
continued generosity in both time and treasure from our exceptional base of volunteers and donors. This is
particularly important as GDB provides its graduates with a lifetime of support.” Many thanks to Andy for his
ongoing support, stewardship, and enthusiasm for all things GDB!
STAFF PROFILE
Guide Dogs for the Blind is fortunate to have two highly trained chefs working in the student residences on
both of our campuses. They not only provide three complete nutritious meals a day for clients, but they also
play a key role in creating a comforting atmosphere during the two-week training period.
Catherine Coppett is the chef on our Oregon campus and is originally from Iowa. She attended the Western
Culinary Institute in Portland, Ore., and then went to work as the head chef of a restaurant in Austin, Texas.
She joined the team at GDB in September of 1995. “Over the years, I have learned so much from our clients
about what they like to eat,” she said. “If I can alleviate dietary concerns by listening and offering alternative
solutions, that is especially rewarding. I’m always happy to hear when our clients come back, and that the
hospitality services we provide were one of their reasons for choosing us again.” Catherine enjoys running,
playing guitar and piano, cooking vegetables from the garden, and grilling outside in the summertime. She
currently lives in Portland with her partner and their daughter, along with a well-fed hamster named Fuzzy.
David Wilson is the chef on our California campus and is originally from Colorado. He attended City College
of San Francisco’s Hotel & Restaurant Program. After 27 years in the food service industry, David came to
GDB in 2014. “I really enjoy the positive atmosphere at GDB and the fact that my pet dog is welcomed,” he
said. “The highlight is seeing the uncontrollable happiness of the clients in class.” David enjoys surfing,
playing drums, and grilling the perfect rib eye. He currently lives in San Rafael and has three teenage
children.
“Both Catherine and David’s willingness and desire to accommodate our clients’ needs plays a significant role
in our ability to support and contribute to the mission,” said GDB Dormitory Manager Scott Kahler. “When
clients know that their food-related needs and preferences will be met, they can focus on the task at hand.”
GRAD PROFILE
When John Ross “JR” Quevedo was in class to receive his first guide dog, yellow Lab Griff, he remembers
thinking it was like ballroom dancing. “Working with a guide dog has a lot to do with body positioning and foot
work, especially on turns,” recalls JR. “As a new handler, I practiced every turn in my room while I was at
GDB—I danced every night.”
JR has a degree in graphic design from The Art Institute and Academy of Arts in San Francisco. He is a
graphic illustrator with a passion for typography and visual development through storytelling. “I might be
visually impaired, but my imagination and storytelling is very much alive,” he said. “I draw on paper where my
eye is inches away from where I can literally kiss my artwork. I’m inspired by experiences and my
surroundings—I just love to tell stories through illustrations.”
Upon graduating from GDB in February of this year, JR and Griff returned home as a confident team ready to
take on the world. “In the short amount of time having Griff by my side, I’ve gotten to know San Francisco a lot
more,” JR said. “I have this new confidence to become more of a risk taker and have more initiative now when
I’m outside. And the best part—it’s just the beginning!”
To read more of JR’s story and to see more of his artwork, please visit our blog, No Bones About it at
guidedogs.blogspot.com. You can also follow JR on Instagram @urbsters.
ALUMNI UPDATES
 Marla Runyan of Boston, with her guide dog Grafton, was recently honored as a “Hero Among Us” by
the Boston Celtics Shamrock Foundation. Marla was recognized for being an inspirational role model
for athletes who are blind, and for encouraging children with disabilities to reach their full potential.
Marla is a two-time Olympian in long-distance running, and currently is a teacher at the esteemed
Perkins School for the Blind.

Janine Prindle of Eunemclaw, Wash., and her now-retired guide, Cranberry, were recognized by the
American Kennel Club with an honorable mention ACE award (Awards for Canine Excellence).
Cranberry is the first working guide dog to earn the coveted AKC Utility Dog Title. Janine and
Cranberry worked together for six years to attain the title.

Dan McKay, with guide dog Hansel, was honored for his work for people with disabilities by the City
of Timmons, Calif. in March; his name will be included on the city’s Human Rights Wall of Fame.

Did you know guide dogs are also news hounds? Recently, Alyssa Minwell and her guide Adella were
featured in The San Antonio Express-News, while Laurel Wheeler and her guide Stockard graced the
pages of The Oklahoma Daily. In Oregon, Sue Phillips and her guide Kabuki were profiled in The
Cedar Mill News, and the article was written by fellow alumna Jennifer Hemmeyer who has guide dog
Fred. On television, Phil Dimeo, with his guide Tessie, was on a Milwaukee morning show to discuss
his book, Binoculars, and Laura Ann Grymes was on KBTX-TV in College Station, Texas, educating
viewers about ADA and state access laws for guide dogs after being denied access to a restaurant
with her guide, Dyson.
ACTION!
We are pleased to share with you our new video, “Campus Life,” which provides a comprehensive overview of
what our clients can expect when coming to class at GDB to receive their new guide dogs. It’s a must-watch
for anyone considering attending or recommending Guide Dogs for the Blind as their guide dog school of
choice. Please visit our website to check it out, guidedogs.com.
HAPPENINGS
Legacy Society Luncheon
In April, more than 150 Bay Area Legacy Society members gathered at The City Club of San Francisco for a
luncheon to thank them for their commitment to our mission. Guests were treated to a delicious meal, and
enjoyed an inspirational keynote address by GDB alumna Sarah Outwater with her black Lab guide,
Ferdinand. Guide Dogs for the Blind’s Legacy Society honors the generosity of those who have chosen to
include GDB in their estate plans. Their visionary planning will ensure that Guide Dogs for the Blind remains a
world leader in guide dog training for the blind and visually impaired for many years to come. For more
information or to enroll, please visit guidedogs.com/plannedgiving.
Pictured: Legacy Society members Sandy Hontalas and former board chair Phil Spalding with GDB President
and CEO Chris Benninger.
Pinot & Pups
GDB’s 8th annual Pinot & Pups fundraising auction was held in May at the Portland Art Museum. Attended by
320 GDB supporters, the event featured wines from the Pacific Northwest, an elegant dinner, silent and live
auctions, and of course, plenty of puppies! GDB alumna Vickie Kennedy, with guide dog Angela, gave a
stirring keynote address, and a highlight of the live auction came during the fund-a-need paddle raise. The
event raised more than $300,000; proceeds will be used to offset the costs of training GDB clients with their
new guide dogs.
Thank you to all of our sponsors. Companion Sponsor: US Bank Charitable Services. Buddy Sponsors:
Alaska Airlines, American Steel, Banner Bank, Kuni BMW, OnPoint Community Credit Union. Winery
Sponsors: Alexana Winery, Andrew Rich Wines, Bergstrom Winery, De Ponte Cellars, Elk Cove Vineyards,
McCleskey Cellars, Major Creek Cellars, Thomas Cellars. Brewery Sponsor: Hair of the
Dog Brewing Co.
Pictured: Bidding action during the live auction at Pinot & Pups; board member Sigrid Button and daughter
Whitney.
SAVE THE DATE
Canine Heroes Auction - Featuring keynote speakers Lorrie and Captain “Sully” Sullenberger
Saturday, September 26, 2015
San Francisco, CA
Visit guidedogs.com/events for more info.
Join us at the 2015 Alumni Reunion Retreat
GDB Alumni, puppy raisers, family, and friends are invited to GDB’s 2015 Alumni Reunion Retreat in
Portland, Ore., September 11-13. The theme of this year’s retreat is “Paws around the World,” and topics for
seminars and activities will relate to all the great adventures—both big and small—our alums have with their
guides. Attendees will learn more about fulfilling dreams of travel as well as pausing to enjoy life’s everyday
journeys. Attendees will also learn about guide dog schools worldwide and how technology can enhance
national and international travel. In addition, there will be a number of excursions that capitalize on some of
Portland’s finest offerings, including a chocolate decadence walking tour, a craft beer/brewery tour, and a
picnic lunch at GDB’s Oregon campus. To learn more or to register, please visit guidedogs.com/reunion. See
you there!
Charitable Gift Annuity = Income for your life, and a gift to Guide Dogs for the Blind
Want to learn more? Visit guidedogs.com/plannedgiving
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Send a donation today
 Please use our mailing address for donations: Guide Dogs for the Blind, P.O. Box 3950, San Rafael,
CA 94912-3950. You can also donate online: guidedogs.com.
 Eliminate checks and postage
Direct your bank to automatically transfer your donation.
 Make an Honor or Memorial gift
Pay tribute to a friend, relative or pet; we will send cards of celebration or sympathy in your name.
 Create a Legacy in your estate
Name GDB in your will, trust or as a beneficiary of your annuity, life insurance policy, IRA or
retirement plan. We honor such commitments with membership in our Legacy Society.
 Designate your gift
Designate your donation to go toward a specific GDB program. Contact us for more info.
Guide Dogs for the Blind will occasionally share donor information with like-minded nonprofit organizations in
an effort to better fulfill our mission and serve our clients. If you do not wish to have your information shared,
please call us at the phone number below, or email us at donations@guidedogs.com.
For more info, please contact our Development Department at (800) 295-4050 extension 4160.