GDB Alumni Association and 2025 Alumni Reunion

We love getting questions from our listeners, so for this episode, we asked GDB staff (the real experts!) to answer some of the most common questions that you send us. Hear from our Canine Welfare Neonatal Team about puppy socialization and activities in our Puppy Center, our HR team about some of the most unique jobs at GDB and the perks of working here, as well as our Guide Dog Mobility Instructors! Have other questions for us? Send them to [email protected] and your questions could be on a future episode.

Catch up with GDB Client and Paralympic Gold Medalist, Olivia Chambers, and her guide dog, Mahi. Since graduating from GDB, Olivia has completed college, won GOLD and two SILVER medals in the Paris Paralympic Games, and travels the world representing Team USA. So, what is next for this semi-aquatic duo? Tune in to find out!

A personal discussion about guide dog retirement, applying for a successor guide dog, and what it’s like to form a bond with your new partner. Theresa’s guest will be Apprentice Guide Dog Mobility Instructor, Carlos Gutierrez, who was her instructor in class.

Theresa talks with Amy Salger, GDB's Alumni Engagement Manager, to talk about the unique role that our Alumni Association plays in supporting our clients and building community. They also discuss plans for the upcoming Alumni Reunion in October 2025. Learn more today at guidedogs.com/reunion.

Theresa sits down with Guide Dogs for the Blind VP of Client Programs, Susan Armstrong, and architect George Miers to discuss the planned renovation of our Oregon Campus Residence and Community spaces. They discuss the design firms approach to universal design and share upcoming milestones. To learn more the project, visit guidedogs.com/oregon-campaign.

Raise a puppy, change a life! Theresa sits down with Sarah Blevins, GDB Director of Puppy Raising, to talk all things puppy! From the team's approach to research and canine welfare to all the ways that you can raise a guide dog puppy for GDB. You won't want to miss this one!

Back by popular demand! Let's revisit our interview with Richard Rueda and Jane Flower about Careers and Canine Connections ahead of our 2025 season. Plus, hear from client Alana Ambrosecchia about her experience attending Careers and Canine Connections.

Guide Dogs for the Blind President and CEO, Christine Benninger is back on Central Bark to share thoughts and reflections on 2024 and exciting news about 2025.

Meet GDB Client Faith Snapp and her guide dog Prim. Faith sat down with host Theresa Stern to talk about her history with Guide Dogs for the Blind, her leadership role in FFA, and her future plans as she embarks on her newest adventure- veterinary school.

Did you know that GDB is 100% donor-supported and that we receive no government funding? Find out how GDB is able to offer our programs and services at no cost for clients thanks to the generosity of our community.