STATUS: Open

SERVICE AREA: Eastern U.S. for legally blind clients; blind veterans may be served anywhere in the United States. Organization is based in Cassville, New York.

CLIENTS SERVED: Individuals who are legally blind, age 16 or older, including people with additional physical or cognitive disabilities. Applicants must have completed Orientation & Mobility training, be able to walk at least one mile per day, and be physically and financially able to care for a guide dog. Veterans who are legally blind may qualify regardless of where they live in the U.S.

DESCRIPTION: Freedom Guide Dogs is a nonprofit that breeds, raises, trains, and provides guide dogs free of charge to qualified people who are blind or visually impaired. Its Hometown Training™ program brings the trainer and guide dog directly to the recipient’s home and community, allowing training to focus on the person’s daily routes, lifestyle, work, school, and transportation needs.

PROGRAMS/SERVICES:

• Guide Dog Placement: Matches trained guide dogs with qualified individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
• Hometown Training™: Provides personalized training in the recipient’s home and community, including their usual routes and daily activities.
• Mobility Training: Teaches clients how to safely and effectively work with their guide dog.
• Application & Admissions Support: Helps prospective clients through the application, evaluation, and matching process.
• Graduate Support: Provides ongoing assistance and follow-up after a guide dog is placed.
• Puppy Programs: Offers opportunities for volunteers to raise and care for guide-dog puppies.