In 1946, when the Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind was founded, its mission was simple: to provide guide dogs and training – free of charge – to people who were blind or visually impaired.
For 75 years, the Guide Dog Foundation has trained and placed guide dogs and service dogs to provide increased independence and enhanced mobility to people who are blind, have low vision, or have other disabilities. Once the decision is made to get a guide dog, applicants become part of the Foundations' open and welcoming community and are supported with an uncompromising commitment to excellence, from highly empathetic and certified trainers, to a meticulously constructed curriculum.
People come to the Foundation for our trademark small classes, and individualized instruction. The guide dog training program often attracts people who may have special requirements, and we have successfully worked with people who are deaf or hearing-impaired in addition to being blind, as well as many others who have other physical challenges.
It costs over $50,000 to breed, raise, train, and place one assistance dog; however, all of the Foundations' services are provided at no charge to the individual. Funding comes from the generosity of individuals, corporations, foundations, and community organizations.
