The campaign to raise money for "Hounds for Heroes", the charity set up by Allen Parton to provide trained assistance dogs for injured armed forces and civilian emergency services personnel, is already gaining momentum.
Since it's launch, people the country over (myself included!) have been offering up their support through various fund raising events, ranging from raffles to dog shows, and photography competitions to a special charity ball, which took place on 17th April 2010 at Jury's Inn, Birmingham.
Organised by Lynda Cain and Steph Colquitt of Hounds for Heroes, attendees were treated to a three course meal, with talks from Wayne Palmer, Chairman of Hounds for Heroes, Paul Ross from Help for Heroes, and Matt Croucher GC, author of the best-seller, "Bullet Proof", who was awarded the George Cross for his acts of bravery whilst serving in Afghanistan.
An auction followed, which included prizes such as a signed Man Utd football, a 'Platinum-Deluxe' make-over and photo-shoot, and tickets to a variety of shows, before the disco had people dancing into the night.
In total the evening raised an incredible £4325, which has been split between "Hounds for Heroes" and "Help for Heroes" - both very worthy charities indeed.
For more information, please visit www.houndsforheroes.com
Also aiming to raise funds are a brave bunch of "Canicross" runners. Canicross is the latest doggie sport that is sweeping the country, which involves using specialised leads so you can safely run with your dogs. Simon(42) and Cushla Lamen(40), Nicky Hutchinson(49) and Mark Dunbar(47), along with their canine companions, will be running five marathons over five days, from Ilfracombe to Bulford, as part of the Project 65 Forces March, taking place between 27-31 May 2010. For more information about the Forces March, visit www.project65.net
Information about Canicross can be found at www.canicross.org.uk
Cyclists from specialist supermarket Waitrose are also rising to the challenge by taking a trip to Paris, with the proceeds going to Hounds for Heroes. The group, from Petersfield, Hampshire, took part in a photo shoot on 14th May 2010, which included members of the Royal Navy, British Army, RAF, Police force, Fire brigade and Ambulance service, as well as local MP's, Allen Parton with EJ, and adorable reservist puppies, Blaze, Sarge, Gunner and Colonel. Photo's of the day can be found on the Hounds for Heroes Facebook page. ( http://www.facebook.com/#!/group.php?gid=153732569277 )
One more notable name that must be mentioned is PC Katie Johnson, of Lancashire. On New Years Eve 2007, PC Johnson, a police dog handler and trainer, was shot during a violent robbery at a pub in Bamber Bridge, Preston. She states;
"I became aware of the charity during my recovery period when I read Allen Parton’s (founder of Hounds for Heroes) book."
After contacting Allen to tell him how inspiring his story was, they stayed in touch, and PC Johnson was "honoured" when Allen invited her to become an ambassador for the charity.
"I am absolutely delighted that Katie has decided to get involved and believe she will be a huge asset to the charity." says Gulf War veteran, Allen. "Her knowledge and love for dogs is vital and I think she will be able to provide that link between the charity and police forces across the United Kingdom."
The Hounds for Heores Puppies on Parade appeal is aiming to raise £100,000 to purchase and train five Labrador puppies up to a standard that will assist injured or disabled people.
"Hounds for Heroes is about enablement, independence and an enhanced quality of life for so many injured personnel. We are here to make a difference" says Allen.
For more information, or to lend your support, please visit www.houndsforheroes.com
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