Guide Dogs of America (GDA) last weekend held its 38th annual William W. Winpisinger Charity Banquet in Las Vegas. The charity’s highest honor, the “Gift of Sight Award,” was presented to IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes, GDA Graduate Teresa Blevins with IAM Aerospace Coordinator Tony Blevins, and National Group Protection, Inc.

Watch: Guide Dogs of America Supporters Gather in Nevada

“For me, the reality is that raising money for Guide Dogs of America is a labor of love,” said Cervantes. “For those of you who know me, you know my love for animals, especially dogs.”

The weekend of fundraisers included the charity banquet, a golf tournament, the Hawgs for Dogs Motorcycle Ride and a sporting clay event.

“It takes a team, and you all are part of that team. It’s because of you, your generosity and your dedication to giving to Guide Dogs of America,” said Teresa Blevins, also a guide dog recipient. “I have mobility and independence. I don’t have to depend on someone else to lead and guide me because she does that for me. She keeps me safe wherever I am.”

GDA provides guide dogs free of charge to blind and visually impaired men and women in the U.S. and Canada. The school was founded in 1948 after a blind IAM member was rejected for a guide dog due to his age of 57.