[Image: The Vision Guide Dogs logo features a winding road with a guide dog standing in the center and "Vision Guide Dogs" printed in the upper-right corner. Next to the logo it reads "Navigate the World."]

[Image: Client John Bramblitt kneeling with his guide dog Zuke in a sit-stay position next to him.]

What a year it's been for Vision Guide Dogs! In November, we celebrated our first anniversary as a nonprofit organization and, as we reflect on this past year, we have a lot to be thankful for. We have forged so many meaningful relationships and partnerships with individuals, organizations, and businesses throughout the community. We have raised awareness about our mission by participating in numerous events. While we are excited to ring in the new year and focus on new goals, we'd like to pause and remind ourselves of what we have accomplished in 2023. Here are some highlights:

• Reached 100 supporters and raised over $16,000 during the Big Give, surpassing our fundraising goal of $15,000
• Welcomed guide dogs-in-training Zuke, Zola, and Zebo to the Vision Guide Dogs family
• Attended conferences, expos, Fiesta events, and White Cane Awareness Day as well as partnered with area businesses and organizations such as Chicken N Pickle, Vibrant Works, The Cherrity Bar, Belle and Union, and Kendra Scott to raise awareness about our mission
• Hosted our first Sip and Paint fundraising event with the help of South Texas Veterinary Ophthalmology, Paper Happy Studio, and Spice of Life Catering
• Trained and graduated our first team, artist John Bramblitt and guide dog Zuke

We would like to thank our VGD supporters for cheering us on, sharing social media posts, telling your friends about us, attending our events, buying merchandise, volunteering your time, donating money, and everything else you have done to help us get to this point. We couldn't carry out our mission without you. We wish you a happy and healthy 2024 and can't wait to see you at one of our events in the new year!

[Image: Guide dog Zuke alerts client John Bramblitt to the crosswalk signal as they work along a city street. John reaches out his hand to press the button.]

[Image: Client John Bramblitt and his guide dog Zuke stand on a walkway in front of a house.]

[Image: Guide dog-in-training Zola in a sit-stay position next to Santa Claus at the Vibrant Works Breakfast with Santa event.]

[Image: Guide dog-in-training Zola in a sit-stay position in front of a statue on the grounds of the San Antonio VA Medical Center.]

[Image: Board member and volunteer Elizabeth Hepp holds a container of fake snow while two children play with it at the Vibrant Works Breakfast with Santa event. The children's mother is by their side assisting.]

[Image: Guide dog-in-training Aurora in a sit-stay position in front of an evergreen tree decorated with red ornaments.]

NOTE OF APPRECIATION

[Image: VGD puppy raiser Lana Reynolds with guide dog-in-training Zola in a sit-stay position by her side.]

EVENTS & INFORMATION

[Image: Guide dog-in-training Zola in a sit-stay position in front of a present-filled sleigh in a Kendra Scott boutique.]

HOW YOU CAN HELP

[Image: Guide dog-in-training Zola in a sit-stay next to a sign that reads "Lab" with an arrow pointing to the right on the grounds of the San Antonio VA Medical Center.]

[Video: YouTube video, "The Story of Two Blind Brothers."]

Bradford and Bryan Manning are brothers and co-founders of the clothing brand Two Blind Brothers. The company was born out of a desire for ultra-soft clothing as well as finding cures for blindness. At a young age both brothers were diagnosed with Stargardt disease, a form of macular degeneration in which central vision is lost over time. At present, the disease is incurable. The brothers have committed 100% of Two Blind Brothers' profits to support research programs in search of therapies for retinal eye diseases. In addition, they hire blind workers through organizations such as Industries for the Blind to help make their items.

If you are in the market for a super soft shirt or on the hunt for the perfect gift for someone important in your life while also supporting a great cause, click the button below. Be sure to check out their cute guide dog plush toys!

[Image: An individuals's hand facing palm up with a handful of fake snow.]

Are you disappointed that you didn't have a white Christmas and looking for a fun craft to do? If so, try this recipe for fake snow that only requires two ingredients and a few minutes of your time. It is cold to the touch, doesn't melt, and fun for all ages!

Vision Guide Dogs is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization.

Federal Tax ID 92-0898185