It is that time of the year again when we reach out to our friends of the Irish Guide Dogs For the Blind asking for contributions. Due to the passion and dedication of Mary Dunlop and James Denehy to help the blind and visually impaired in Ireland, IGDB became a reality in 1976. This work is supported solely by voluntary contributions. All funds raised go directly to the IGDB which is governed by a voluntary member board who are responsible for all policy decisions.

The headquarters and training center of IGDB are located in Cork at Model Farm Rd. Recently these facilities were completely redeveloped at a cost of three million euros. Training a guide dog begins with a volunteer puppy walker who keeps him from six weeks to one year when he is brought back to the center for extensive training sessions. The dog at two years old is fully trained and ready to be assigned to a blind or visually impaired person. A guide dog's term of use is eight years after which they are retired and replaced by a new dog. All costs incurred for providing guide dog from initial breeding to replacement are provided free of charge by the IGDB.

It takes approximately two million euros to provide this service annually. As the demand grows for this service, expenses also become much higher. This is why we come to you again for assistance in the form ofa voluntary contribution. Your gift would be much appreciated and the difference it would make in the life of a blind or visually impaired person having that faithful companion.

A fundraiser is planned at the Rory Dolan's, 890 McClean Avenue, Yonkers, New York, 10704 Telephone: (914) 776-2946. Music will be provided. For further information please call IGDB chairman Kevin Kennedy at (212) 534-8867.

We wish to thank you for your previous donation and your continued support for this worthy cause. All checks and money orders should be made payable to: Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind and mailed to my address: 109 East 89th St, Apt 1H, New York N.Y. 10128.

Sincerely Yours,

Kevin J. Kennedy