[nagdu] National Toll-Free Education & Advocacy Hotline

[Marion & Martin]

Dear All,
    Jenine has asked an important question and, as I stated in an earlier message, my mind is not quite as sharp as it once was! (smile) One fact that I failed to share is that NAGDU has been engaged in research & development of a National Toll-Free Education & Advocacy Hotline to provide information about service animals to the public. This hotline will offer general information about state & Federal laws protecting the rights of service animal users, as well as industry specific guidance regarding service animal access. This system will include information to assist such public accommodations as restaurants, lodging, taxicabs, health care facilities, and airlines. In addition, callers will have the option of speaking directly with a trained advocate for direct personal assistance. Furthermore, we are developing brochures and other collateral materials to provide this information, as well as to market the hotline.
    NAGDU has applied for a grant from the NFB's Imagination Fund for start-up costs and is seeking ongoing funding through foundations whose mission is to promote independence among the disabled, animal welfare, legal assistance, and any other category we can think of to fund this project. We are planning to beta test the system during the first quarter of 2010 and to have the system completely functional by Spring.
    Once we begin the beta testing phase, we will also begin the recruitment and training of the volunteers to staff the hotline. It is an ambitious undertaking and I am grateful to the NAGDU Board, especially to Vice President Mike Hingson, for their hard work and support of this initiative. I hope our members will embrace this project and pitch in to make it a success!

fraternally yours,
Marion Gwizdala