Guide Dogs for the Blind

Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB) is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the independence and quality of life for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Established in 1942, GDB has become the largest guide dog school in North America. It provides highly trained guide dogs and comprehensive support services at no cost to clients across the United States and Canada.

Mission and Vision

GDB's mission is to empower lives through exceptional partnerships between people, dogs, and communities. Their vision is a world with greater inclusion, opportunity, and independence by optimizing the unique capabilities of people and dogs.

Services Offered

GDB offers a range of services to support individuals with visual impairments, including:

• Guide Dog Mobility Program: pairs clients with specially trained guide dogs to foster independence and mobility.
• Orientation and Mobility (O&M) Immersion Program: provides intensive training to enhance clients' navigation skills in various environments.
• K9 Buddy Program: places career-changed dogs with children who are blind or visually impaired to offer companionship and prepare them for future guide dog partnerships.
• Youth and Young Adult Programs: tailored programs promoting independence and social integration through guide dog partnerships.

Training and Breeding

GDB maintains a robust breeding program focusing on Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and their crosses. Puppies are raised by volunteer families, known as puppy raisers, who socialize and train them in basic obedience.

At 13 to 15 months old, dogs undergo formal training at GDB's campuses, learning guide work and public access skills.

Locations

GDB operates two campuses:

• San Rafael, California: the main campus offering comprehensive training and support services.
• Boring, Oregon: provides additional training facilities and support for clients in the Pacific Northwest.
• Gresham, OR, USA: an additional location supporting regional training and services.

Community and Support

GDB's work is made possible by the generous support of donors and volunteers. The organization receives no government funding and relies entirely on private donations to provide services free of charge.

With over 16,000 guide dog teams graduated since its founding, GDB continues to advocate for the rights and inclusion of individuals with visual impairments.