Hicksville Volunteer Honored by Canine Companions

31 years ago, Diane Fergenson discovered the perfect solution to combining her love of animals and her desire to help others. The Hicksville resident began volunteering with Canine Companions in 1994. Canine Companions is celebrating its 50th year this year as the nation's first and largest service dog organization, serving adults, children, and veterans with disabilities free of charge. Diane helped organize the first Long Island DogFest, an annual event that’s become Canine Companions national signature fundraiser!

Diane has Chaired or Co-Chaired this event every year since and is also proud to be one of the founders and leadership members of the Canine Companions Long Island Volunteer Chapter.

Diane says she’s consistently reminded of how lucky she is to be a Canine Companions volunteer: to fundraise, to donate and to serve Team Training lunches. She also cherishes the chance to snuggle with a Golden Retriever, kiss puppies and cry unembarrassed tears at every graduation ceremony.

Diane’s biggest take-away: “I have learned that no matter how busy or chaotic you thought your life was, there is always room in your schedule, your home and your heart for things that matter. What matters to me is that I am a Canine Companions volunteer!”

Diane and her husband have raised two future service dogs, and fostered over 100. They have also adopted several retired Canine Companions service dogs, finding much joy knowing these dogs lived out their retirement years in a loving home. Canine Companions Northeast Region Executive Director Debra Dougherty says no one is more deserving of this recognition than Diane. Congratulations!

Learn more about Diane and her Canine Companions' Regional Volunteer Recognition, and how you can join us and become a volunteer puppy raiser: https://canine.org/2024-jack-w...