Membership Information
What is Guide Dog Users of Oregon?
Guide Dog Users of Oregon (GDUO) is a state affiliate of Guide Dog Users, Inc. (GDUI), a special interest group of the American Council of the Blind (ACB). For over 20 years, GDUO has provided advocacy and support for visually impaired and blind Oregonians partnered with guide dogs.As members of GDUO our goals are
- To educate the general public about guide dogs and their role in our lives.
- To assist in resolving situations where access has been wrongfully denied to a guide dog.
- To lobby within the Legislature for guide dog access and protection laws; and.
- To provide a network of support for guide dog users around Oregon.
Events/Conventions
GDUO holds two annual gatherings. The Spring Romp brings together current and prospective guide dog handlers, puppy raisers, training professionals, and other interested people. This overnight event provides many opportunities for formal and informal networking and sharing of information and support. The Fall Convention is typically a half-day event including a formal business meeting and guest speaker presentations. It is often held in conjunction with the Oregon Council of the Blind convention.
Presentation topics at these events have ranged from the work of search and rescue dogs to dealing with the loss of a guide or puppy.
Resources
Through GDUI, GDUO offers educational pamphlets for the public including Guide Dogs in the Work Place, Traffic Safety, and Public Access. In an effort to better prepare those seeking training with a guide dog, GDUI has compiled a handbook which takes a person through the process from choosing a training school to working with his/her new dog. Other booklets are planned to support people retiring dogs and to assist families and friends in adjusting to the role of a guide dog.Membership Dues & Donations
Membership is open to all Oregonians who have an interest in guide dogs. Annual dues are $15.00, which include membership in GDUI. Contributions to support GDUO's work are tax-deductible to the extent the laws allow. The membership form is available online in two formats.More information
For more information contact a representative of Guide Dog Users of Oregon.