Activities began with two senior center visits; one in Northbrook and one in Gurnee. Residents at these centers are very happy to see and pet me. They tell us that it is a highlight for the week.
Then we had an important visit with staff at the International Care Center headquarters in downtown Chicago. Another comfort dog and me, plus our handlers, were invited to get acquainted with the staff. The primary objective was to give the staff a chance to get introduced to comfort dogs. Many staff people came, 60-70, and petted us. It was a great visit.
In the middle of the week, I visited a high school in the northern suburbs to participate in their Clothesline Project. I have attended this activity before. Its purpose is to give teenagers a chance to speak about serious impacts, even attacks, that they have experienced. Each teenager attaches a colored t-shirt to the clothesline that is set up in a large meeting room. The t-shirt contains words that the teenagers would say to the person(s) who attacked them. A few other comfort dogs and I were there to provide an opportunity for these kids to sit next to us and gain some peace.
I made two more senior center visits by the end of the week. These were to centers that we visit on a monthly basis. For residents who have significant health issues, they are so happy to see me.
Then to change the agenda, I went to the LCC “22” Supper for veterans. There was a very large attendance this time. The military Kare 9 comfort dogs were also there. We get along very well. I was close enough to the end of the room were the slide show pictures were shown. I even watched a little bit.
The final activity was back at Faith. People were coming to pick up food. There was one mother with three young children who came. The kids were very happy to pet me.
As I try to tell each week, we are blessed by the Lord to meet and engage with many people. Many have needs. Our visits bring smiles to all faces.
Be in touch. Peace!