I am writing to you on behalf of KSDS Assistance Dogs, Inc., who is planning a fundraiser, Pumpkins and Pups, taking place on October 15, 2021 at 7 pm at the Lodge at Ironwoods, 14701 Mission Road, Leawood, KS 66224. This evening will consist of food, drinks and silent auctions. Previous events have always proved very popular.

For 30 years, KSDS, a not-for-profit based in north-central Kansas, has been breeding and training assistance dogs. They train guide dogs for those who are blind or visually impaired, service dogs to aid those with physical disabilities, and facility dogs to work with professionals -- such as teachers, law enforcement officials, social workers, and counselors -- to help their students or clients. 

By the time a carefully bred, highly trained dog is teamed with a human partner, its value exceeds $25,000. Despite the cost, KSDS gives these wonderful dogs to those in need FREE of charge thanks to the generosity of donors and sponsors who understand how these dogs transform lives.

Not only are the dogs free, but so are the weeks a person spends training with his or her new canine partner at the KSDS campus. Housing is free, meals are free, follow-up assistance is free. (Kisses from the dogs -- also free.) Throughout the process, the only charge to a client is a $25 application fee. More information including our board may be found on our website at www.ksds.org.

We are hoping that you might be willing to supply us with a suitable item for our auction. Gift baskets are always popular but anything you could donate would be appreciated. Our event is expected to draw over 250 supporters and donating organizations will be prominently featured in our event program, silent auction tables, social media, and event campaigns. Items need to be to us by 8/31 to be included in our auction program.   The KSDS federal Tax ID number is 48-1080879. 

If you could help, please send your donation directly to Adam Mayer at KSDS Assistance Dogs, Inc., 120 West 7th Street, Washington, KS 66968 or if you are located in the Kansas City metro area, I would be happy to come pick it up. Please place a note that the gift is for Pumpkins and Pups.  If you require any more information, please do not hesitate to contact me at brianphesse@gmail.com or 816-547-1151.

Thank you in advance and best wishes from everyone helping make lives better for persons with disabilities.