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Retired Guide Dog Britta Takes Center Stage at Denver Charity Fundraiser

June 19, 2023

On the vibrant green fairways of Broadlands Golf Course near Denver, Colorado, a special guest named Britta stole the show at an annual golf charity event hosted by Machinists Union Local 1886 and Local 47. Britta is a retired guide dog who has spent her years serving as a loyal companion and a breeding “Momma” for Guide Dogs of America. Now at six years old, Britta retired after three years of dedicated service, helping to improve the lives of children with autism, veterans suffering from PTSD, and those with vision impairments, among other forms of critical assistance.

Britta, the mother of two litters of puppies, was brought to the charity event by Christine Coyle, a dedicated Guide Dogs Representative, and Los Angeles resident. With an impressive 25 years of service under her belt, Coyle has bred and raised seven dogs from start to finish for Guide Dogs of America.

Coyle’s passion for community service and giving back inspired her involvement with Guide Dogs. “It just looked like a great way for our entire family to get involved,” Coyle said, reflecting on what initially drew her to the charity. “It’s just a really wonderful opportunity to raise awareness and money for Guide Dogs of America and the work they’re doing.”

According to Local 47 President Garry Harper, the fundraiser has seen an increase in participation each year. Harper, who has served Union Members in the Denver region as President for the past 30 years, described the increase in participation, saying, “When we first started doing this, we had 60 golfers who signed up. Today, we have more than 140.” The numbers would be higher this year, but, as Harper quipped, “they don’t have enough golf carts.”

According to Local 1886 President Johnny Martinez, the chief organizer of the fundraiser, last year’s event raised over $23,000. A figure he believes will be surpassed this year. “I seriously want to thank everyone who helped make this happen,” he said. “This is one of the largest tournaments of its kind held at this location,” he continued.

“We try to limit costs by working with local businesses and community organizations, and we hold raffles and other drawings, which is where we actually get most of our donations,” he added. 

The help is very much needed. Breeders like Christine have to pay out of pocket to raise a puppy for Guide Dogs of America, relying on tax write-offs to recoup costs such as food and other related costs.

Coyle further explained the financial aspects of raising guide dogs. “The school provides vet care and breeding,” she said. “In all, it can cost about $4,000 to get a dog into training. But, that’s just the breeding cost. To get the service dog through breeding and training, and to actually deliver it to a recipient, the total costs can range as high as $70,000.”

She expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the Machinists Union for their support. “Those expenses are why we’re so appreciative of the Machinists Union’s generosity and assistance. We truly couldn’t do it without you guys,” she said.

Guide Dogs of America is dedicated to creating partnerships between people and service dogs, enhancing the lives of visually impaired or blind individuals and service dogs for veterans and children with autism. The organization also assigns facility dogs to professionals in various environments, such as hospitals, schools, and courtrooms. These expertly trained dogs serve as reliable companions, boosting their human partners’ confidence, mobility, and independence. All services, including transportation, personalized training, lodging, and ongoing support after graduation, are offered entirely free of charge to the beneficiaries.

Machinists Union Assistant General Chair Rich Robinson also attended the event, praising the fun and festive atmosphere. But he wanted to recognize more than just the event’s ambiance. “This local has proven itself time and time again. They want to support their community and this great cause, and I couldn’t be more proud of the work they’re doing.”

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