Fello launched our Volunteer Program in September, giving people a new way to share their time, skills, and experience with people with disabilities. 

Margo is one of those volunteers, and she knows firsthand the value of Fello’s support. 

After receiving Family Fund grants that helped her son Tanner access therapy and discover new ways to express himself, Margo is now paying it forward. 

Finding Community 

Margo is a Massachusetts native living in Annapolis with her wife, Rachael, their two children, Tanner and Liv, and Tanner’s beloved guide dog, Hayden. 

After moving to Annapolis in 2020 to be closer to family and friends, they found a community they’re happy to call their own. The family spends lots of time exploring their neighborhood, with Hayden always by their side. From Oktoberfest to Pride, they love being part of local events. 

Community involvement matters to Margo and her family, and it’s a big reason Margo is proud to volunteer with Fello. 

Giving Back 

Over the past two years, Margo’s family has benefited from Family Fund grants, which made weekly music therapy possible for Tanner. These sessions have helped him improve his communication skills. Recently, Tanner said “I love you” to his family for the first time. For Margo, moments like that have meant so much. 

Having access to a resource that supports Tanner on his communication journey has made a real difference for Margo and her family. So, when she learned that Fello was looking for volunteers, signing up was an easy decision. 

“Fello has given us so much through the Family Fund, and I feel very grateful for the opportunities we’ve received,” said Margo. “I wanted to give back.” 

A Special Connection 

Anyone who knows Tanner knows how much he adores his guide dog, Hayden. She’s more than a companion. She’s his best friend and a source of comfort and reassurance as he navigates his world. 

Margo is a strong advocate for the life-changing benefits of guide dogs. As a proud supporter and volunteer with Guide Dogs of America, she has traveled across the U.S. to speak about how transformative a guide dog can be. 

“Being around dogs like Hayden brings a moment of joy, a moment of calm. They help ease anxiety, no matter what’s going on in the world,” said Margo. 

After seeing the impact Hayden has had on Tanner, Margo knew Hayden could also impact others in the community. With Tanner in school most days, bringing Hayden along to volunteer was the perfect way to share a guide dog’s gentle presence. 

Hayden’s Visits 

Margo has already brought Hayden on two visits to our offices in Annapolis and Severn, introducing her to our community.

“It’s truly a two-way street for me,” said Margo. “Bringing Hayden around and seeing people interact with her makes me so happy. At the same time, you can tell it’s really bringing joy to others.” 

The people we support were excited to join Margo and Hayden on walks around the park. They enjoyed learning not just about what a guide dog does, but also about Hayden’s unique personality. 

Hayden is trained in deep pressure therapy (DPT), a calming technique in which she gently places her head, paws, or even her whole body on someone to help them relax. DPT can calm anyone, and Hayden is trained to provide it when someone needs a little extra comfort. 

“During Hayden’s first visit, there was a gentleman who was shy and kept his distance,” said Margo. “But then he sat down on the grass with his legs stretched out—a cue Hayden recognizes. She immediately went over and snuggled up to him. You could see right away how much more relaxed he became. It was a special moment, especially for the team that supports him.” 

Even a short time with Hayden leaves a lasting impression. 

“There was a young woman who met Hayden during the first visit and returned for the second. She was so excited to see Hayden, calling her name and jumping up and down,” said Margo. “Experiences like that are at the heart of why I volunteer.” 

Every Chance to Serve 

Currently volunteering twice a month and eager to do more, Margo sees many opportunities to bring Hayden into the community. She imagines visiting favorite local spots, like the mall or the bowling alley. For Margo, meeting people where they are is essential, and she hopes Hayden can bring the same sense of connection to each place they visit. 

Margo finds volunteering incredibly rewarding and plans to continue. She encourages anyone interested in volunteering to take that leap.

“Just try it out,” she said. “It’s a wonderful experience. It’s a lot of fun. The team is lovely; everyone is so welcoming. And when you’re volunteering and doing things for others, you can’t help but feel joyful yourself.” 

Volunteers can contribute in many different ways, from sharing a skill or hobby to spending time with the people we support or helping at a Fello event. Like Margo, volunteers can find a way to share what they enjoy while helping create more opportunities for connection and belonging. 

Inspired by Margo’s experience? Our Volunteer Program is open to anyone ready to make a difference. Learn more and fill out our volunteer interest form to get started.