History Has Been Made: Southeast Region’s Independence is Golden Gala

First Canine Companions Event to Raise Over One Million Dollars

A woman in a sparkling gown stands on stage clapping, while a man in a wheelchair, facing away from the camera, listens. A black dog with a blue vest is beside him. The backdrop features large text that reads 'INDEPENDENCE IS GOLDEN' and blue paw prints, with a crowd of attendees in formal attire watching.
Photography by Jade Apisuk | Jadepisuk.com | @jadeapisuk

Canine Companions marked a historic milestone this past weekend as the Southeast Region’s Independence is Golden Gala raised more than $1 million, the first time in the organization’s 50-year history that a single event has surpassed this remarkable achievement.

Held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at the stunning Rosen Shingle Creek in Orlando, the evening celebrated five decades of providing expertly trained service dogs free of charge to people with disabilities. The record-breaking success of the Gala underscores the extraordinary generosity, passion, and commitment of Canine Companions’ community of supporters.

The unforgettable evening featured inspiring stories from Col. David Rozelle and his service dog Kylynn, as well as Daniel and his service dog Norwood, whose heartfelt messages reminded attendees of the profound impact these life-changing partnerships create.

The event’s success was made possible through the dedication of sponsors, donors, volunteers, clients, and staff—the heart of the organization’s mission. Their support ensures that Canine Companions can continue to expand its reach and provide even more service dogs to those in need across the nation.

As the organization celebrates its 50th anniversary, this historic milestone not only honors five decades of impact but also paves the way for an even brighter future.

Watch Daniel and Service Dog Norwood’s story below:

A woman smiles as she interacts with a yellow Labrador retriever that is painting on a canvas. The dog is wearing a blue harness and has its paw on the canvas which features blue and white paint. In the background, there are art supplies on a covered table and a sign that reads 'SEBASTIAN.' The setting appears to be an art event.
Four dogs, two black and two yellow Labradors, are lying on a carpet in front of easels displaying blank yellow canvases. They are wearing blue harnesses with identification patches, and the background features beige doors and a nameplate on the wall.
An older woman sits between two trained service dogs, a yellow Labrador and a black Labrador, in front of a green foliage backdrop with a glowing sign that reads 'Canine Companions'. The woman has short gray hair and wears a black and white polka dot shirt.
A man in a wheelchair smiles while holding a leash attached to a black service dog wearing a blue vest labeled "Canine Companions." They are in a large room with informational displays and other guests mingling in the background.
Three people pose for a photo at a formal event; a woman in a silver layered dress with a drink, a man in a shiny gold suit with a black shirt, and a woman in a black dress with floral patterns, all smiling, with other attendees in the background.
A lively gathering at a banquet where a man in a blue plaid suit is playfully kissing a golden retriever puppy. Nearby, a smiling woman in a black shirt watches, and a group of guests at tables is socializing in the background. The setting includes elegantly arranged tables with drinks and floral arrangements.
A lively event scene featuring a man kissing a golden retriever puppy wearing a blue and yellow service vest, while a woman holds the puppy. In the background, several guests are seated at tables with drinks and food, and a staff member is smiling nearby.
A group of four individuals stands on stage at an event, each holding a painting. Two Labrador retrievers sit beside them, wearing vests. The backdrop features a sparkling curtain and a screen displaying information related to the event.
A man in a suit speaks at a podium bearing the Canine Companions logo, while a woman in a black dress sits beside him gesturing; a black dog with a blue service vest lies quietly on the stage.
A man in a wheelchair wearing a suit and bow tie speaks at a podium, while a woman in a dark dress stands beside him. The background features golden sequins, adding to the event's formal atmosphere.
A lively event scene at a gala for Canine Companions, featuring attendees cheering and clapping, with a large screen displaying a fundraising thermometer reaching over $1 million, and the logo for the 50th anniversary projected on the wall behind them.
A banquet scene where a waiter is holding a bottle with a corkscrew, while guests at elegantly set tables applaud and celebrate. The room is decorated with festive elements, including a large banner above that reads 'Independence is Golden.' Many attendees are dressed formally, with some laughing and enjoying drinks.
A table setting featuring champagne bottles adorned with ribbons, a floral centerpiece with white roses and greenery, and a glass vase. In the background, the words 'INDEPENDENCE IS GOLDEN' are projected in large, yellow letters on the wall.
A woman in a sparkling gown stands on stage clapping, while a man in a wheelchair, facing away from the camera, listens. A black dog with a blue vest is beside him. The backdrop features large text that reads 'INDEPENDENCE IS GOLDEN' and blue paw prints, with a crowd of attendees in formal attire watching.