Yates a proud participant in Paws for Patriots program
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Greg Yates recently attended the semi-annual conference of the Independent Jewelers Organization (IJO) held in Tampa, Fla., and took part in a charity event that touched the hearts of all present.
Southeastern Guide Dogs, Inc., located in Palmetto, Fla., has created a new program called Paws for Patriots, providing guide dogs to veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan. As of this date there are 30 American soldiers who have been blinded during their service, sacrificing so much for each and every one of us.
Introduced at IJO?s general session, USMC Corporal Michael Jernigan, the first war veteran guide dog recipient, spoke about how his life has changed since he was seriously injured, and how much of a positive impact the receipt of his dog, Kera, has had on his independence.
In his delightful, upbeat manner, Jernigan said, ?I?m not able to do so many of the things I used to do. I can?t even drive a car anymore. . . which I?m sure you?ll all be relieved to learn.?
Yates, with United Diamond Brokers, said, ?We?re proud to belong to an organization that has the finest retail jewelers and manufacturers in the country. We?re also very pleased to have been able to help make a difference in the Paws for Patriots program.?
Community members in the area wishing to contribute to the fundraising efforts may bring their checks, payable to Paws for Patriots, to United Diamond Brokers at 1100 Smithville Hwy. Ste. 109.