Kona Graduates

In 2021, SCS Elevator Products partnered with Guide Dogs of America-Tender Loving Canines (GDA-TLC) to sponsor a service dog in training named Kona. Regional Sales Manager Brian Hilfrank suggested the idea as a way for SCS to give back while honoring the history of the company, which was founded by Robley G. Cook, a visually impaired individual who used the services of a guide dog. Kona’s “puppy raiser” and GDA-TLC staff have spent several years preparing her to become a highly skilled and trusted companion. 

On May 4, Kona graduated her training and was partnered with Josh, a Marine veteran who served two tours of duty in Afghanistan. Partnering a human with a canine is a 10-day process where each recipient spends time with each dog to see if a relationship forms. “On her own, Kona sided up to Josh and simply sat with him for 45 min, relieving Josh’s anxiety,” said Hilfrank. “In Josh’s words, ‘Kona picked me.’”

SCS is currently sponsoring a second puppy. Born in July 2023, Orbit is receiving the same GDA-TLC service dog training as Kona. Keep up with her journey on SCS’s website and social media pages!