A cyclist is traveling cross-county on a solo bike tour to raise awareness and funds for Leader Dogs for the Blind.
WBFO & AM-970's Eileen Buckley caught up with the biker as he headed through Niagara Falls, Canada and into the Buffalo region.
Mark Mansell started his trip in Portland, Oregon. He actually a schools superintendent in LaCenter, Washington and a member of the Lions Club.
"People have been so generous and kind, donated, asking questions provided support. It has just been heartwarming," said Mansell.
Leader Dogs for the Blind was formed in 1939 by the Lions providing free dogs for to those who cannot see.
"All the program is provided free of charge to clients, and they've provided, over the last 73 years over 14,000 service dogs to those who are blind or visually impaired," said Mansell.
Mansell is headed all the way to Portland Maine. So far he has raised a little more than $55,000. That among would cover the cost of about two leader dogs.
Mansell said reaction on his bike trip toward Leader Dogs for the Blind has been "serendipitous".
You can learn more about Leader Dogs and Mansell's bike trip at http://www.leaderdog.org/.