History

The Little Red Dog Foundation was founded in 2005 by Anne Guthrie. Anne understands first hand the difficulties faced by those who are mobility challenged because of a traumatic automobile accident she suffered years ago. For many years Anne was unable to enjoy the pleasure and freedom of mobility. But when her husband, Louis gave Anne an adult tricycle in 2003, it changed her life. From this experience was born the idea to help others gain the freedom of mobility.

In the Guthrie’s 2005 Christmas card they asked their friends and family on their Christmas card list if they would like to make a donation to help purchase therapeutic tricycles which would be offered to children who suffered from balance and mobility problems. The response was overwhelming and thus began the Little Red Dog Foundation which by the way is named after the Guthrie’s little red dachshund, Stephanie. How appropriate since Stephanie has been featured on the Guthrie’s Christmas card for years.

In 2007, the LRDF became a chapter of the national organization Ambucs who shares the same mission as LRDF but reaches out on a national level. The trykes that the LRDF uses are purchased from Ambucs who designs therapeutic trykes and has them built.

Each year since 2005, the Little Red Dog Foundation continues to expand its presence by giving away more trykes in each succeeding year. Recently, the LRDF gave away its 350th tryke.

The work of the LRDF would not be achievable without the help and compassion of people in our local communities. Many diverse groups and individuals donate their time and energies to help us with our fundraising. LRDF raises funds for AmTrykes through our annual Christmas card, school fundraisers, and through the efforts of several neighborhood and service organizations in the Lowcountry. Also, we are provided invaluable assistance from volunteers in local fire departments and service organizations who spend many hours assembling the AmTrykes.