McCoy Federal Sponsors DogFest Orlando to Aid the Disabled

$110,000 fundraiser equips the physically, mentally and emotionally disabled with assistance service dogs.

WINTER PARK, Fla. –  DogFest Orlando raised over $110,000 on April 17 to support the initiatives of Canine Companions for Independence (CCI) to enhance the lives of children, adults and veterans with physical, mental, or emotional disabilities. Held in Winter Park, Florida, dogs and pups of all breeds, sizes and costumes were invited to bring their “Humans” along to enjoy the festivities with them.

CCI provides FREE of charge assistance service dogs matched to the person’s disability—a remarkable fact considering each dog requires a minimum of two years training and $50,000 in expenses.

Assistance service dogs do simple tasks necessary for humans in everyday living such as opening and closing doors, cabinets and the fridge; and retrieving items from drawers, closets and floor. Specialty service dogs alert the deaf to sounds, navigate the blind through the intricate steps of daily living and give comfort to vets who suffer from PTSD— now commonly considered the “unseen wounds of war.”

In a four year study, the human-canine partnership was proven to increase the well-being of the disabled by reducing their feelings of anxiety, helplessness and loneliness. Charlie praised his service dog Devon, “Just having someone with me to help do things that are difficult for me really affects my life positively.” Gabe, who became disabled while serving the military stated, “Once you get a strong bonded relationship with a dog like Wonka, a lot will change.”

McCoy Federal’s Business Development team serviced pups and their humans at DogFest Orlando, a fundraising event to provide assistance service dogs to the disabled.

DogFest Orlando, sponsored by McCoy Federal, raises funds for Canine Companions for Independence to give assistance service dogs who meet the needs of their disabled human partners.

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About McCoy Federal Credit Union
McCoy Federal Credit Union embodies the Credit Union charter of “People Helping People” through sponsorships to help those in need and dedicated service to their Members. Beginning in 1954, McCoy
Federal has grown to 13 branches with $800 million in assets to assist over 70,000 Members achieve their financial goals and dreams. Discover the advantages of McCoy Federal at www.McCoyfcu.org.