The future of our new training school— and the life-changing work we do – is in jeopardy. But we’re not going to give up on our dream.
Our Dogs are Ready to Work. But our Future is in Jeopardy.
We’ve had to pause construction on our new Dog Guide training school because of a $20 million shortfall. Without urgent action, construction could be halted permanently, and our capacity to operate our training program could be lost.
This unexpected shortfall happened for several reasons:
- A committed piece of financing did not come through in time as expected
- The scope and size of the project expanded to meet the complex needs of a fully accessible, purpose-built facility
- COVID-19 and economic uncertainty drove up construction and material costs
This is the most urgent fundraising campaign in our history.
We have $60 million committed toward our new national Dog Guide training school, but we must raise another $20 million to resume construction and continue operating. To get there, we’re asking everyone — government, major donors, corporate partners, Lions Clubs, and the public — to join us.
We are calling on the public to raise $5 Million toward the shortfall, and we need help urgently to get building again, secure the future of our programs, and meet the growing demand from Canadians waiting for a life-changing Dog Guide. 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.
How can I help?
- Make a donation if you are able
- Start a peer-to-peer fundraiser or organize an event.
- Share our campaign with your friends, family and networks.
- Post and re-share our updates on social media (tag @lfcdogguides)
This is a make-or-break moment. Please don’t wait – we need your help today.
Watch the Difference Take Shape
Building a state-of-the-art, fully accessible training school is a big undertaking. It takes time, funding, and a whole lot of attention to detail. Help us get our school and our future back on track.
Turner Construction Company: Bringing Our Vision to Life
We are proud to be working with Turner Construction Company, the builder behind our new purpose-built Dog Guides training school. As the team constructing this state-of-the-art, fully accessible facility, Turner is helping make The Difference Campaign a reality.
Their expertise and attention to detail is bringing to life a space designed with our clients in mind, ensuring every visit is welcoming, inclusive, and barrier-free.
Turner Construction’s support goes beyond the build. They’ve also chosen to foster and name one of our future Dog Guide puppies, Turner, showing their deep commitment to our mission.
Together, we are building a new training school and a future where more Canadians can experience the life-changing impact of a Dog Guide.
The Difference for Kevin
“Dog Guides offers such a great opportunity for people like me. Having Pat changed my world. He’s my best friend, my helper, and my wingman when I meet new people. I can’t imagine my life without him.
The new training school means more people will be able to access the fully accessible facility and benefit from a Dog Guide, just like I have, forming great partnerships along the way.
We had to be away from home for three weeks when I was first matched with my Dog Guide. People from my class were in rooms all over the building. The new facility will keep classes together, which I’m excited for!
The new rooms and training areas look amazing. It will be great for everyone to stay and work there. Pat and I can’t wait to visit the new training school when it’s done! Thank you, Dog Guides, for changing my life.” — Kevin & Pat, Service team
The Difference for Nikita
“Training at the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides school in Oakville was an unforgettable experience. From the moment I arrived, I felt supported by the trainers, dogs, and the shared goal of helping people like me gain independence. It was a space where I could grow alongside my new companion.
With that being said, I believe relocating to a new training school will significantly enhance the training experience for future clients. At the Oakville training school, we had to complete some exercises, like obstacle courses, in the hallways, which limited their effectiveness. Accessibility was also a concern. The elevator was unreliable, required a key, and was difficult for individuals in wheelchairs to use.
A modern, spacious, and accessible training school would provide a more comfortable environment. With updated resources and a better layout, future teams will be set up for greater success.” — Nikita & Destiny, Canine Vision team
For Clients – Accessible and Comfortable Guest Rooms
For our clients, there will be 35 large bedrooms that will be fully accessible with space and furnishings to allow our clients and dogs to bond and relax in the privacy of their room.
For Clients, Staff, and Dog Guides – Training Spaces and Classroom
Dedicated training areas and classrooms for each of the seven Dog Guides programs will provide a more conducive learning environment that has spaces dedicated to their training.
For Dog Guides – Optimize Canine Well-Being
Larger and improved kennel spaces will provide indoor and outdoor spaces to learn, play, and relax. These spaces will increase their health and well-being to set them up for success in their training.
Stay in the know:
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