Volunteer Log (Project 3)

Project Three Volunteer Log
Eckerd College
Rajeev Rupani


Name of Organization: Southeastern Guide Dogs


Location of Organization: 4210 77th Street East, Palmetto, FL 34221
(941.729.5665)


Volunteer Opportunity: I had the opportunity (through Quest For Meaning) to work with training and looking after guide dogs as well as young puppies, on regular weekends since September.


Review of Volunteering:

What did you do?

I assisted with making puppy food, cleaning kennels, walking and running puppies/dogs, cleaning play areas/yards, doing laundry, cleaning dishes and making bedding for moms (in nursery). I pretty much assisted (along with my QFM group) in taking care of the dogs/puppies over the weekend, when the regular staff was off duty.

When did you do it?

I went on weekends, alternating between Saturdays and Sundays, spending a total of forty hours this semester (four hours per weekend or more). I began in early September and will be going till the weekend before Thanksgiving.

What did you learn?

I learnt a lot about taking care of young puppies and adult dogs, during my volunteer experience there. I also observed how these trained guide dogs needed much work behind the scenes that would train them in assisting visually impaired individuals. I also saw how these guide dogs gave hope for people suffering from loss of visual abilities, to lead a dignified and independent life.

What are your future plans?

I plan on continuing to volunteer there for the rest of the year as it gives me a good break away from school and I feel like I have contributed something back to the community.