Learn About Canine Companions at our Next Chapter Presentation
Explore and learn about the life-changing impact of service dogs with Canine Companions. Since 1975, Canine Companions has provided expertly trained service dogs to adults, children, and veterans with disabilities—all at no cost. This includes supporting the hearing loss community.
Could you or someone you care about potentially benefit from a Canine Companions service dog? Join us for this engaging and fun presentation to learn more and ask questions.
Presenter:
Sarah Nigoghossian
Senior Instructor at SWR
I’m Sarah, and I’ve had the privilege of working with Canine Companions for 14 years. I discovered this incredible organization while studying Animal Science at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, during a project on working dogs.
After working in various dog-related roles—boarding, training, and daycare—I joined Canine Companions in 2010. This career has deepened my understanding of dog training and given me the chance to serve diverse communities.
I’m grateful for every dog and client I’ve worked with. Training and placing dogs have taught me the value of communication, trust, and patience. It’s a job that pushes me to grow while empowering others—a true gift! ????
We want to thank our wonderful hosts, Valecia & Vince, for generously hosting our Halloween themed HOPE gathering at their beautiful home. A big shout-out to Tim Browning for setting up the loop system and Wendi Washington for leading the insightful discussion, and to everyone who shared their personal hearing loss stories. This gathering was a true example of what it means to find strength and connection within a community of caring individuals.
Our HOPE meetings are always a safe space where we can share experiences, offer support, and provide valuable information. We are all on our unique hearing loss journey, but through these shared stories, we find understanding and solidarity in each other’s struggles, triumphs, and growth. Thank you to all who attended for your openness with those who get it. And, of course, a special mention to the delicious spread of food—because who doesn’t love a good bite during Halloween month (with no calories, of course!)? We are grateful for each and every one of you. ❤️
Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 are poised to serve a dual purpose, not only as wireless earbuds but also as over-the-counter hearing aids. This new feature is designed for Americans suffering from mild to moderate hearing loss, providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional hearing aids, which often carry a stigma and high price tag. Experts are optimistic about the potential for AirPods to make hearing assistance more accessible, especially following FDA authorization of the Hearing Aid Feature (HAF) software. The AirPods Pro 2 will include features like hearing protection, a built-in hearing test, and hearing amplification, making it easier for users to manage their hearing health discreetly.
This is a big year for the Los Angeles chapter as we celebrate 20 years of supporting our greater Los Angeles community. Many friends and family have benefited from the work of the chapter and our dedicated members.
We had a cloudy but cool and beautiful morning to celebrate our annual Walk4Hearing event at Shoreline Park. The event drew over 300 people from all walks of life to raise awareness and funds for hearing loss and to show support for all impact in one way or another by hearing loss.