It isn’t everyday that you are able to witness two families lives impact one another in such an inspirational way. However, May 18, 2015 I was able to witness a Vietnam veteran and his wife sponsor a fellow veteran and his wife to not only receive a Service Dog, but sponsor her training as well. This incredible couple, who wish to remain anonymous and were met through Archie’s Bingo, didn’t simply donate money and a puppy to a fellow veteran; they gave this family a daughter, a friend and with this puppy, the strength to move past the obstacles in which their injuries have bound them up until this point. Little Sparky, the 12 week old German shepherd, was donated to Mr. and Mrs. Alcindor; both of whom are veterans and couldn’t be more deserving of such a wonderful gift. When Mr. Alcindor laid eyes on Sparky it was like seeing a child’s eyes’, face and entire being light up from sheer joy.

He and his wife smiled from ear to ear in utter bliss and simply kept thanking both Canine Companions USA as well as the incredible couple who made the miracle of Sparky possible. It is thanks to the kindness and generosity of people such as our anonymous Archie’s Bingo Sponsor Parent’s that we, Canine Companions USA, are able to continue to help veterans, children and persons’ with disabilities get service dogs’ free of charge