On Wednesday, August 2, PAWS of CNY volunteers and their therapy dogs attended a picnic that was held by Advocates Inc., a Central New York-based organization that aims to empower individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. The picnic was held at Longbranch Park in Liverpool and the attendees were given the chance to enjoy the company and companionship of several PAWS of CNY therapy dogs. It was an evening of fun with music, food, and lots of engaging activities for all to enjoy.
The volunteers who attended the picnic included Cindy Griffith and her Poodle Sebastian, Linda and Jim LeMessurier and their Golden Retriever Callie, Lisa Garofalo and her Labrador Mix Dutch, Sue and John Stepien and their Bernese Mountain Dog Stella, and Karin Laskowski and her Golden Retriever Piper. The dogs were very welcomed at the picnic and they received lots of attention.
The therapy dogs weren’t the only attraction for the public to enjoy. Attendees were also able to take a horse-and-carriage ride, listen to music spun by a DJ, and participate in a variety of yard games. Even the Syracuse Chiefs’ mascot, Scooch, made an appearance, along with the Syracuse Crunch’s mascot, Crunchman.
Advocates Inc. is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to empowering individuals and their families to lead full and meaningful lives in their community. Their mission is to help individuals with developmental disabilities direct their own lives and create a vision for their future. Advocates Inc. has over 350 professionals serving over 750 individuals and family member throughout Central New York. The people at Advocates Inc. do tremendous work for the Central New York community.
–By Kyle Andrake