By: Aileen Dugan, Foundation Committee Chair,
Portsmouth RC, and Tom Talbott, DGDN, Portland RC
“Wait! What in the world is a “Three Dog Day?"
It’s a special District 7780 Rotary Foundation Celebration event built around one unforgettable moment:connecting three veterans with three specially trained companion dogs. The event will be anchored by a grant from incoming District Governor Michele Bois-Gilbody, but we need your support to make it a reality.
Please plan to join us Saturday, October 17, 2026, 2pm-4pm at Port City Air in Portsmouth, NH, for an afternoon celebrating the impact of The Rotary Foundation here in our District and around the world. All clubs and all members will be invited. Exact ticket price to be set to cover our costs, but it will be low - $20 tops.
Our goal is to raise $19,500 through District, Club and individual contributions to cover the cost of the three companion dogs for veterans in our District. As your club sets your budget for the new Rotary year starting July 1, we ask that you think now about how your club can help support this districtwide event, and we’ll follow up soon to provide more details.
The dogs, trained by Hero Pups of Stratham, NH, will already have been joined with their veterans before the event, so it will not be a surprise. It is a true celebration of service, healing, and connection, with long term benefits.
The afternoon will also recognize and award new Paul Harris Fellows, show appreciation for major donors, and provide clubs with opportunities to showcase their individual club program. Dog House of Friendship! We’ll have some light food and drinks,or chew toys if you prefer.