Appeal for volunteers to support guide dogs
West Lothian Concise Group set for a busy month
The West Lothian Concise Group is raising funds on behalf of Guide Dogs Scotland.
As well as placing collection boxes with retailers and businesses, the charity is arranging collection days, giving the opportunity to engage with the public by handing out leaflets providing information on the services offered by Guide Dogs Scotland.
And on Saturday, November 17, volunteers will be at Matalan Livingston from 10am until 3pm and will be accompanied by guide dog puppies who are currently in training, or fully trained dogs with their owners.
Chris Collier, group coordinator explained: “Our local fundraising group are on the lookout for new members to join our group for social and fundraising events across West Lothian.
“It’s a great opportunity to make new friends, joining new and established members. We have been inspired by guide dog owner members, and those who are visually impaired.
“With each guide dog costing just over £ 56,000 from birth through to retirement, the money raised through our activities is essential in helping our visually impaired community with a life changing partnership with one of our guide dogs.”
Group member Bob explained how becoming a guide dog owner has changed his life.
He said: “Visual impairment affects your life in so many ways. The loss of confidence and ability to be independent was huge.
“The opportunity to become a guide dog owner would allow me and others in the same situation to take back control and change our lives.
“There are many other people like me who are waiting for a guide dog, and we know the fund raising work carried out on behalf of Guide Dogs will give us the opportunity to live fulfilling lives.
“Waiting on the call to say I have been matched with a guide dog, is like waiting on Christmas coming. I know this will be the best present and change my life forever.”
The Consise Group meet for coffee and chat at The Paraffin Lamp the first Thursday of every month. There is a broad spectrum of members - including Guide dog owners, puppy walkers and fundraisers.
If you are interested in coming along or have any questions then please contact Anne Rowse (Fund Raising Development Officer) on 0345 1430203.