Join us for a special evening under the sparkling lights of the North Central Training Center to celebrate and support Canine Companions' mission.
June 4, 2026
5.30 – 9 p.m. ET
North Central Training Center
SIT. STAY. SPARKLE. NORTH CENTRAL 2026 IS SOLD OUT. To be added to the waitlist or to request accommodations, please email us at ncrevents@canine.org or call us at 614-699-5900.
Together, let’s celebrate a life-changing mission! Event attendees will enjoy powerful stories from clients who have found enhanced independence with the help of their expertly trained service dogs, meet future service dogs in training, bid on a curated selection of exciting items in our live and silent auctions, and enjoy cocktails and a plated dinner.
Canine Companions is leading the service dog industry so our clients can live with greater independence. We provide service dogs to adults, children and veterans with disabilities and facility dogs to professionals working in healthcare, criminal justice and educational settings. Since our founding in 1975, our dogs and all follow-up services are provided at no cost to our clients.
No matter what hurdles she faces, Gracie is ready to take on any challenge with Service Dog Redi by her side.
Gracie was born at 26 weeks old with cerebral palsy and cystic fibrosis, which affect her mobility and require the use of a power wheelchair. After years of relying on others to assist her, Gracie graduated in November 2024 with Service Dog Redi, who was expertly trained to enhance Gracie’s independence through performing tasks like picking up dropped items, turning on and off light switches and opening and closing doors.
“Redi is more than a dog to me; he’s my helper, my guide and my friend,” Gracie says. “Having Redi is not just about getting assistance with day-to-day tasks, it’s about having a loyal companion who gives you the confidence to navigate a world that isn’t always built for you.”
Redi allows Gracie to embrace her young adult independence, working as an office clerk and community ambassador for her hometown, the City of Shepherdsville, Kentucky. Redi is also by Gracie’s side as she explores her hobbies: going to concerts, enjoying time outdoors and even visiting friends in different cities.
“Redi is not just my service dog, he’s my partner, my reassurance, and a daily reminder of the strength I carry within myself,” Gracie says. “Because of him, I’ve gained the confidence to figure things out on my own. I no longer feel hesitant with life’s everyday challenges. Instead, I find myself wanting to take on life more independently - and not just for me, but to show others what’s possible!”
