Saint Francis Service Dogs Summer 2024 Newsletter

Donor Spotlight

Pete Milward

Now, four years later, Barks ‘n Rec is still going strong. This past April, we once again exceeded our goal, raising over $67,500 to support our mission. None of this would have been possible without the generosity of so many. We are especially grateful to this year’s title sponsor, Milward Prillaman Group of Davenport & Company, LLC. Pete Milward, long-time friend and supporter of Saint Francis says, “I am proud to sponsor Barks ‘n Rec. It is our major fundraiser of the year, and the publicity it brings helps raise the awareness of the mission of Saint Francis in the community.” Pete was first introduced to Saint Francis by another very important person in the Saint Francis family, Vic Foti. He knew quickly that he wanted to be involved.

“It was love at first sight. I have always been a dog lover, and the concept of dogs helping people with disabilities was a revelation,” says Pete. Ever since, Pete has been a dedicated donor and advocate. His generosity, friendship, and support is felt across our organization. He says being involved with Saint Francis brings him comforting satisfaction, knowing he is making an impact on people’s lives. Pete says , “One of my favorite quotes is, ‘The best thing for the inside of a man is the outside of a dog.’ It sums up what it means to place a service dog with someone who needs them.”

It was a concept born during the pandemic when we were stuck in our homes, taking extra precautions, and missing daily interactions we may have all taken for granted. Our goal for Barks ‘n Rec when it began in 2020 was to make people feel connected. We wanted everyone to get out there in whatever way they could – no matter their age, physical ability, or where they lived – to do what they love, all while helping Saint Francis Service Dogs change the lives of the people we serve.

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Thank you, Pete, for all you do to help us continue to change lives!

For more information on all types of giving, please visit our website at saintfrancisdogs.org/ways-to-give

Thank you to all of our sponsors for making Barks ‘n Rec 2024 a success!

Milward - Prillaman Group • WyndRose • Jo Lynn Draper • River Birch Wealth Management • Whitlow & Youell • Brown Edwards • Sam and Sally Craver • Dodson Pest Control • Annette Kirby • Member One • Roanoke Animal Hospital • Vinton Veterinary Hospital • Bob and Sue Villamil • Professional Rehabilitative Options, Inc. • Waldvogel Commercial Properties • Woods Rogers

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