Hello, my name is Reed and I am so excited to be joining the staff of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Jacksonville as the new Facility Dog.  I am a two year old Labrador-Golden Retriever mix and I was born to fill this role.  As a puppy I spent time learning commands and behavior, with a puppy raiser.  Next, I went to Canine Companions of Independence for advanced training. Finally, it was time for Team Training where I would be matched with my “furever friend” and be placed in a job.  While at Team Training I met Shelli Martin, the Family Operations Manager at Ronald McDonald House Charities of Jacksonville. I heard Shelli telling the trainers about the families that stay at the House and how they need a friend to play, snuggle and just spend time with them.  I knew this was the job for me!   As team training began I worked with several different potential partners, but my heart was always with RMHC Jacksonville.  On the day that we were assigned our partners, I was thrilled to learn that I was assigned to Ronald McDonald House and that I would spend my days helping children and families! 

At my graduation ceremony, I met other members of the RMHC Jacksonville staff and soon after I made my debut at the Jacksonville Ronald McDonald House. The children were so excited to see me and I was thrilled to meet them! I also had the chance to meet my predecessor, Anita.  Boy, do I have some big paws to fill!  She truly was a special dog and I am thrilled that she plans to stop by once in a while and check in on us. 

I am really looking forward to getting to work and meeting all the friends of RMHC Jacksonville, but most of all I am excited to help make the House a true home away from home. 

Woof, Woof (With Love,)  

Reed