GDB’s Inaugural Walk for PAWSitive Impact A Big Success!
Thursday May 08, 2025
Guide Dogs for the Blind’s (GDB’s) first-ever Walk for PAWSitive Impact was a resounding success, raising nearly $54,000 to support GDB’s transformative programs.
Larry Meisner, GDB’s Chief Philanthropic Officer, says the event saw enthusiastic participation from more than 100 individuals and 26 teams who fundraised, rallied their communities, and “walked their way” over the weekend of April 26-27. “In total, more than 500 donors contributed to the cause, showing tremendous support for GDB’s mission,” says Larry, who notes that the funds raised surpassed GDB’s initial goal of raising $50,000. “We look forward to continuing to grow Walk for PAWSitive Impact and establishing it as an annual event that takes place the weekend before International Guide Dog Day at the end of April.”
At the top of the fundraising leaderboard was Carolyn Hindes (pictured above), a longtime GDB employee and dedicated volunteer. Carolyn’s journey with GDB began in 2000 when she started raising guide dog puppies—a commitment that soon inspired friends and family to get involved, too.
“It’s hard to believe it’s been 25 years,” Carolyn reflected. “The passion, commitment, professionalism, and heart of the GDB staff continue to inspire and motivate me.”
Even after decades of involvement, Carolyn says she still catches her breath when she sees a guide dog team working together. “I feel honored and grateful to be part of Team GDB.”
For GDB Volunteer Kathleen Blesius (pictured below), her fundraising effort started with a simple goal—just $25 from a few friends. “I set out to raise $2,500 for Guide Dogs for the Blind, thinking it might be a stretch. Now, thanks to the incredible generosity of so many, I’ve raised $5,000—a powerful reminder of how small acts can add up to a big impact."
Kathleen says she chose to fundraise for GDB because she genuinely believes in the mission. While she doesn't have a personal connection to GDB, she's a passionate volunteer who’s moved by the profound impact these dogs have on people's lives. "What I didn’t expect was how much this journey would give back to me— rekindling old friendships, forming new ones, and becoming part of something truly meaningful."
GDB Board member and guide dog client Cheri Owen participated with her guide dog Martinez, who she says has guided her through many adventures, challenges, moments, laughter, and tears. “The love I receive from Martinez is unconditional, and the understanding and confidence he provides me is more than I could have imagined. He is an earthly angel and confidant who is always there.”
Cheri says the two have been sailing in the Santa Barbara Harbor, romped through lavender fields in Oregon and visited the Vietnam Memorial in Washington D.C.
On Cheri’s fundraising page, she posted: “After a long discussion with Martinez, we have decided to participate in the Walk for PAWSitive Impact to raise funds for Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB). I'm so proud to be a Director on our Governance Board and an advocate for helping people empower individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Martinez and I are raising funds on their behalf, and I'm reaching out to you because I believe your support can help make a real difference.”
In addition to more than 100 individual walkers, 26 teams helped raise funds for the walk, including Strolling with Steph and Stardust, Paws on the Ground, Paws for Equity and Inclusion, the Diamond Bar Puppy Raisers, Guiding Pupstars, and the Auburn Puppy Club, to name a few.
Click here to learn more about the walk and participants.
