Why is the organization launching an urgent campaign?
We are facing a $20 million shortfall that has paused construction on Canada’s largest Dog Guide training school. Without urgent funding, this project could be halted permanently, and our future ability to operate our training programs could be lost.
How far along is the new school?
The new national Dog Guide training school is just over halfway finished. We have $60 million committed toward the school, but we must raise another $20 million by the end of October in order to resume construction and continue operating.
How did this shortfall happen?
- A committed piece of financing did not come through in time as expected. We had been working to negotiate financing to help us bridge our cash flow as we continued to raise funds. We had expected this funding to come in when we were 50% complete construction. However, we found out that the funding, while committed, is not coming in until the end of the project. This left us with an immediate need for cash to pay our construction company.
- In addition, as the design of the building progressed, the scope and size of the project expanded to ensure we are meeting the meet the complex needs of a fully accessible, purpose-built facility that will meet our needs well into the future.
- And lastly, the project began prior to COVID-19 and since then, economic uncertainty drove up construction and material costs.
Wasn’t the overall cost of the building $50 million?
When does the money need to be raised by?
What happens if the money isn’t raised?
What about the current building, and property in Breslau?
What does this mean for current Dog Guide recipients?
What does this mean for the Foster Puppy program?
How would the new training school make a difference?
This building represents hope for thousands of Canadians with disabilities who deserve the safety, independence, and confidence that only a Dog Guide can provide.
The new national training school is designed to increase the number of Dog Guides trained and matched by more than 65% each year – ensuring we can rise to meet the increasing demand for Dog Guides for Canadians living with physical, medical, and developmental disabilities. It will be fully accessible and purpose-built.
What oversight was in place?
The shortfall is the result of several compounding factors, not a single oversight.
All decisions regarding the building project including changes to the scope, budget decisions, and project management oversight were done with full involvement and approval of the Board of Directors, with full transparency and due diligence in accordance with Board policies.
Why should we trust you with our support now?
This is the first time in our history we have made an urgent appeal.
We take financial stewardship extremely seriously. Our organization has operated for more than 40 years, purely relying on support from service clubs, corporations, foundations and individuals from across the country to meet our mission. We are accredited by ADI and IGDF, and Imagine Canada – all of which review our operational management practices.
We have a 40-year track record of delivering life-changing Dog Guide partnerships at no cost to Canadians with disabilities. We’re being transparent about the challenges and what’s needed to solve them.
If you get through this, what about the future and long-term viability?
Our leadership team and Board are actively reviewing all of our programs and operations to ensure that we remain strong, sustainable, and able to deliver on our mission for years to come.
We are carefully evaluating current programs, identifying opportunities to strengthen and adapt, and ensuring every decision supports our long-term viability.
Most importantly, our commitment to the people we serve—and to the values that define us— remains unwavering. When we get through this current challenge, we will be in a stronger position to deliver our programs long into the future.
Can I make a pledge vs. an immediate cash donation?
Pledges continue to be an option, and we’re grateful for every commitment. At the same time, because of the current situation and the urgent need to resume construction, immediate assistance is especially critical right now. Gifts that can be realized sooner will help us get building again and protect the future of our programs.
Are you reaching out to government?
Yes, we are having productive conversations about a path forward with numerous partner including provincial and federal governments. These discussions are encouraging and reinforce the importance of our mission.
How can people help?
We must secure $20 million by the end of October to get this project back on track. We’re asking everyone — government, donors, corporate partners, Lions Clubs, and the public — to join us.
- Share our campaign with your friends, family and networks: www.dogguides.com
- Make a donation if you are able: https://www.dogguides.com
- Host an event or starts a peer-to-peer fundraiser: https://events.dogguides.com/event/difference/home
- Post and re-share our updates on social media
- Tell your story about the positive impact your Dog Guide has had on your life, and tag @lfcdogguides
Every contribution, large or small, will bring us closer to opening the doors of this world-class facility, safeguarding our programs, and giving Canadians living with disabilities greater independence, safety, and support.
We can do this together.
For information and to donate: www.dogguides.com
