The partnership between Lions Clubs International and Leader Dogs for the Blind is one of the most enduring and impactful collaborations in the world of service organizations. It began in the late 1930s, when members of the Uptown Lions Club of Detroit recognized a need close to home: one of their fellow Lions had lost his sight and found that existing guide-dog schools could not accept him. Rather than accept defeat, the Lions stepped forward to meet the need themselves. Their determination set the foundation for what would become Leader Dogs for the Blind.
In 1939, the Lions Leader Dog Foundation was officially incorporated, establishing a mission centered on restoring independence and mobility to people who are blind or visually impaired. Only a few years later, the organization secured its first permanent home—a farm property in Rochester Hills, Michigan. From these humble beginnings, a world-class training campus would eventually grow, serving thousands of clients from across the country and around the world.
Throughout the decades, Lions clubs have continued to be the backbone of the Leader Dog mission. Their involvement extends far beyond financial support. Local Lions identify individuals in their communities who could benefit from a guide dog, introduce them to the program, and often advocate on their behalf. Lions families have also opened their homes as volunteer puppy raisers, helping to nurture the young dogs who will one day become trusted guides. Others serve as hosts for breeding dogs, ensuring that generations of high-quality guide dogs can be raised in loving environments.
The values of the two organizations align naturally. Lions Clubs International is known for its motto, “We serve,” reflecting its global commitment to helping those in need—especially in areas related to vision. Leader Dogs for the Blind, in turn, focuses on empowering people through independence, mobility, and confidence. Together, they form a partnership rooted in compassion, practical support, and shared purpose…