Atlanta Lions Want Your Support To Train Guide Dogs

ATLANTA — Learning to be independent after losing your sight requires support.

From finding and getting acquainted with a guide dog, among other things, to regaining confidence doing routine things, the transition

The Atlanta Lions Club has a history of supporting the blind and has designated February to be Puppy Love Month to raise funds for Leader Dogs for the Blind.

“Leader Dog is the answer for thousands of people who are in critical need of our services,” a statement from the organization said. “Because we believe every person deserves equal opportunity for travel and independence, all of our services are provided at no cost, covering expenses for training, room, and board, and travel to our campus from anywhere in North America.”

Through Feb. 26 the Lions will be seeking donations to support the 83-year-old program in their efforts.

Leader Dog spokeswoman Rachel Kniffen said the organization also provides training in the use of pedestrian GPS equipment, trains guide dogs specifically for people who are Deaf-Blind and offer summer camps for teens. White cane training and guide dog orientation — matching people to the right dog to accommodate both personalities — are also available.

The goal is to help the client acclimate to a visually impaired life with confidence, companionship, and independence. This goal dates back to the founding of Leader Dogs in 1938, when the Lions Club of Detroit established a school to train service dogs for one of its members who was blind, according to Leader Dogs.

Now, following the celebration of its centennial year and long relationship with Leader Dogs for the Blind by sparking this month-long fundraising effort to support the nonprofit that functions solely from donations.

For more information or to donate, visit the Atlanta Lions Club on Facebook.