Annual Walk for Fidelco to be Held in Simsbury

Supporters of the Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation and their four-legged friends will take to the streets in Simsbury this year to raise money for the internationally- recognized organization.

Fidelco Foundation CEO Eliot Russman and guide dog "Reese" made an appearance at the Board of Selectmen meeting Monday to formally request the town's approval to hold the 31st annual Walk for Fidelco in Simsbury this fall.

The foundation, headquartered in Bloomfield, breeds, trains and places German Shepard Guide Dogs with sight impaired individuals. The organization has placed over 1,300 guide dogs throughout 41 U.S. states and four Canadian provinces, Russman said. More than 250 dogs have been placed with Connecticut residents.

"We've been affiliated with the residents of Simsbury going back almost the entire 50 years," Russman said.

The foundation has many volunteers in Simsbury who help raise the puppies and others who donate their time at Fidelco headquarters.

Fidelco has also placed six guide dogs with Simsbury residents.

"That's over $300,000 of charity given back to the town," Russman said.

The Board of Selectmen voted unanimously to approve the foundation's request.

The Walk for Fidelco and Family Fun Day will be held on Sunday, September 23. The walk will begin at the Simsbury Performing Arts Center.