STATUS: Active

SERVICE AREA: United States, Canada, and Mexico. Programs are primarily provided through Leader Dogs for the Blind in Rochester Hills, Michigan, with some in-home instruction available.

CLIENTS SERVED: People who are blind or visually impaired, including adults, teens, and people who are Deaf Blind or have additional physical or cognitive needs.

DESCRIPTION: Provides free training, guide dogs, and mobility services to help people who are blind or visually impaired develop the skills, confidence, and independence needed to travel safely and participate fully in daily life. Client programs are provided at no cost, including instruction, travel, housing, meals, and equipment.

PROGRAMS/SERVICES:

• Guide Dog Program: Matches eligible clients with trained guide dogs and provides individualized training in working with and caring for the dog, with on-campus, in-home, and flexible training options.
• Orientation & Mobility: One-on-one instruction in using a white cane, navigating routes, crossing streets safely, and traveling independently; options include introductory, refresher, advanced, in-home, flexible, and guide-dog-readiness training.
• Teen Orientation & Mobility: Weeklong mobility training for teens and a supporter to develop safe and independent travel skills.
• Teen Summer Camp: Weeklong experience combining outdoor activities, mobility skills, friendships, and leadership development.
• Ongoing Guide Dog Support: Follow-up instruction, in-home visits, check-ins, and wellness support after clients graduate from guide dog training.

HOW TO ACCESS SERVICES:

• Call Client Services 888-777-5332 with any questions.
• Guide Dog, Orientation & Mobility, and Teen Orientation & Mobility: Apply online through the Leader Dogs for the Blind application page or download a printable application.
• Teen Summer Camp: Apply online when applications open each spring.