Wood Dale VFW needs help to buy service dog for veteran
At $6,000 a pop, members of the Wood Dale VFW Men's Auxiliary Post 2149 are saving up for one pricey dog.
But they insist the canine is worth every penny, since it will be trained by New York-based America's VetDogs. The group provides dogs that help disabled veterans with day-to-day tasks like providing balance, retrieving dropped items, or aiding amputees in and out of chairs.
So far, the VFW post has sponsored chicken dinners and a raffle for the cause and both have drawn strong community support.
“Everyone has been very positive about it,” said auxiliary member Dan Hoff, who spearheaded the idea.
Still, they need about $1,000 more to complete their effort.
“For all of us who get involved, it's just a teeny-tiny way to show we support what veterans do for us, and this is what we can do for them when they get back home,” said Ellen Hart, a Wood Dale resident who volunteers at the VFW post.
“We're hoping people can maybe open their hearts and pocket books and send a dollar or two,” she said.
The idea was born when Hoff met a service dog that assists his friend, an Addison veteran who became disabled while serving in Afghanistan.
After seeing how much the dog helps his friend, even with tasks like swimming, Hoff wanted to buy a dog to help another Illinois veteran.
Through VFW post connections, Hoff met Dawn Mattson of Dixon. Mattson served seven years as an Army specialist, but was in a serious vehicle accident while on leave that left her paralyzed from the waist down.
Initially, Hoff, Hart and other volunteers hoped their fundraising efforts could go toward a dog for Dixon. But according to America's VetDogs rules, the group can only raise funds for an anonymous Illinois veteran currently on their waiting list and Mattson might have to wait.
Still, VFW volunteers were undeterred and are now pushing forward with their efforts.
“We got so on board with the program by knowing Dawn, that we just really want to fund a VetDogs for someone,” Hart said. “These dogs are so specialized and they absolutely change their lives.”
Right now, the post is considering hosting another benefit in early 2012 to raise the last $1,000. But members also hope residents will be moved with the holiday spirit and help their cause.
“Everyone wants independence and that's what this does for our veterans,” Hart said.
To contribute, send checks to: VFW Men's Auxiliary Post 2149, Attn: D. Mattson Fund, 510 Georgetown Square, Wood Dale, IL, 60191. For details, call (630) 766-0334. For details on America's VetDogs, visit vetdogs.org.
How to help
What: America's VetDogs fundraiser for Illinois veteran
Who: Wood Dale VFW Men's Auxiliary Post 2149
To donate: Wood Dale VFW Men's Auxilary Post 2149, Attn: D. Mattson Fund, 510 Georgetown Square, Wood Dale, IL, 60191.
Details: (630) 766-0334 or vetdogs.org.