Ryder Systems, Inc., with the guidance of their attorney, Deb Swenson, made a donation to Guide Dogs for the Blind in the amount of almost $28,000. The funds were de minimus funds remaining at the end of a bankruptcy case where Deb represented Ryder Systems. Kevin Sauntry of Ryder suggested that Deb make a designation of a charity. She sent him the following email:
"As you know, I have received three wonderful guides from Guide Dogs: Perro, Janson and Kudo. Guide Dogs is a wonderful organization that enables visually impaired persons, such as myself, to become independent, self-sufficient people. I was living in public housing on social security when I was lucky enough to receive Perro in January 1986. Perro gave me the confidence to apply and go to the University of Minnesota and then on to Stanford Law School. He was with me for 11 years. Janson was with me only 7 years, before I lost him to cancer. Kudo has been with me for 5 years. I honestly don’t know where I would be today without Perro, Janson, Kudo and Guide Dogs, but I bet I would not be a partner in this law firm.
The money donated to Guide Dogs goes directly into the program. Visually impaired persons are provided with a trained guide dog, training, and post-graduate services at no cost. I believe so much in the program that I have made it an important part of my estate planning and donate monthly. Anything you can do to get some money (no matter how small) to Guide Dogs is appreciated. Thanks."
Kevin, responded immediately that he would designate for Guide Dogs and asked that she pass along that the donation be in memory of Perro and Janson and in honor of Kudo. Deb proudly presented the check to Guide Dogs on behalf of Kevin P. Sauntry, Ryder Truck Rental, Inc., thanking them for the wonderful work they do and for the difference they have made in her life and in that of thousands of visually-impaired persons.
Kevin Sauntry received a letter thanking him for the donation, saying:
"Our appreciation for your support knows no bounds - you can see it in the happy faces and wagging tails of our dogs and through an improved quality of life for our blind clients. This donation will go to the heart of our mission helping to produce the most successful Guide Dog teams in the world and offer blind and visually impaired men and women a lifestyle of enhanced mobility, independence and so much more.
Our graduates continually tell us how important it is to be able to share their lives with their trusty Guide Dog companions. Your company's generosity has made it possible for them to take that first step on their journey to a new life."
You can contact Deb Swenson about Guide Dogs for the Blind or about her bankruptcy practice at debs@lommen.com or 612-336-9351.
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