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Student wins Melvin Jones Award

Annie Wierzchowski is the youngest person to be honored by the Iola Lions Club.

The 17-year-old received the Melvin Jones Award at the June 6 Iola Lions Honors Night.

It is the highest award given by Lions and honors individuals for distinguished service to the community and humanity.

She is a volunteer puppy raiser for the Leader Dog Program.

She has raised a total of four puppies.

The Leader Dog Program provides guide dogs to people who are blind and visually impaired to enhance their mobility, independence and quality of life. Each year, over 270 clients attend a 26-day residential training program to be paired with a guide dog.

A puppy raiser is a 12 to 15 month-long commitment of time, energy and love. Through daily care and training, puppy raisers provide the foundation puppies need to potentially become future guide dogs.

Presenting the award were Lion Scott Bestul and Lions District Governor Sue Doell.

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