Freedom Guide Dogs for the Blind, Inc.

We've raised 11pups for Freedom. What we love best about Freedom-is everything they stand for. Everyone at the organization is there if we need or have any problems, the clients LOVE the Hometown training,-and it's just a big family, rather than an 'organization'. We have raised for another guide dog organization, and there is no comparison. Freedom is special and unique. They work so hard to provide just the right fit of dog and handler,-and it shows. We feel so lucky to be part of this organization.

I support Freedom Guid Dogs with my financial support and also my emotional support. Why? Because Eric Lori has personally showed me what it is like to be blind. Eric took me out in Manhattan NYC, he put a very effective blackout blind fold on me, and then had a guide dog that he had trained lead me around NYC during mid-day pedestrian traffic. The dog crossed me at the busiest intersections, with scores of people, taxis, and other traffic all around me. I had to have complete trust in the dog.

needless to say it was all perfect. Eric in an inspiration to so many. He is indefatigable and dedicated to helping everyone he meets and works with. It is the least I can do to support this outstanding organization.

So many non-profits, while dedicated to a good cause, have huge and bloated budgets, board meetings in Palm Springs and such.
Not so here.
The money you give goes fully to the mission, directed by the most sincere, humble and dedicated man alive.
It is not a cookie-cutter approach. Nothing brings Mr. Loori more joy than solving a unique problem for someone who cannot use the standard equipment.
Everyone says, "no donation is too small". True enough, but for those who can, remember, no donation is too large either!

I am currently working with my 3rd guide dog. Freedom guide dogs has been very accommodating with regards to my special needs.

Freedom Guide Dogs is an outstanding organization that expertly serves the needs of their clients and goes above and beyond to accommodate clients with special needs. Their dedication to this profession is exemplary and receives the highest accolades by the clients they have provided guide dogs to.

I first came to Freedom Guide Dogs as a client in 1999 to receive my second Guide dog. At this time, I was a stay at home mom of a five-year-old and also attending school. I felt as I do now, that Freedom is an awesome school and I have had three successor dogs since 1999 when I first came here. I value Freedom staff, Puppy razors, and other handlers. We all support each other in various ways in how to handle train and take care of our dogs. I think that what I love most about freedom is the home training aspect as well as the personal touch that I receive from trainers and other staff. I consider Freedom to be an excellent school and I am so very glad that they have given me four wonderful dogs! Please help them in anyway that you possibly can. I know I will! Thank you for reading!

Freedom is a small guide dog school primarily serving customers living on the east coast. Their program is unique in that the training is done at home rather than requiring a customer to spend two to three weeks at a facility. Their program also stands out in that willing to make adjustments to serve many people that the traditional school can't be bothered with. Their dogs are healthy and well trained. The customer receives the necessary skills to maintain the dog's skill and safely travel to places which might otherwise prove challenging.

I've been a guide dog user for 56 years. The independence and safety in travel one receives from a guide dog truly changes one's life. I received my last two guide dogs from Freedom Guide Dogs. Braelyn and now Opus are truly examples of guide dogs from an outstanding guide dog training program. I'm glad I chose Freedom as I've received such excellent dogs. Opus is a terrific worker and the source of much laughter in my life. Thanks Freedom.

I got involved with Freedom Guide Dogs when I started walking one of their dogs when the handler had knee replacement surgery. I learned so much during this time and additionally puppy sat for one of the raisers. The care and commitment the raisers and trainers put into each dog is amazing.
Just walking a guide dog or caring for a puppy short term requires a lot of dedication so the eventual guide dog is the best he or she can be.

This is why I support and donate to Freedom Guide Dogs!!

Over two years ago I received a guide dog from Freedom Guide Dogs. Their home placement service was a terrific experience. And my guide dog Viking has been a great guide dog and companion.

This wonderful organization started over 30 years ago by a husband and wife team is capable of accomplishing what other similar type organization do with 1/4 of the resources.

A fully transparent and self-less, dedicated and loyal staff with a supportive donor base has helped hundreds of otherwise unfortunate individuals find new meaning and joy in their disabled lives.

I am a recipient of a well-trained, well-mannered Freedom Guide Dog. This dog, that I received through Hometown training was perfectly matched for my mobility needs and my life style. I commend the organization for their breeding, raising training and placement of dogs in one of the most cost effective organizations in the field of Guide Dog training.

Hello, my name is Lynn Sisson and I have been a client of Freedom Guide Dogs since 2008. I am on my third guy dog with them, and it has been a extraordinary service. My first guide dog I had enough vision to train most of the way, but not enough to finish the harness and traffic training. They were willing to take my own personal dog, which was a Bernie’s Mountain dog and finish training her for me. That was such an act of kindness, and it touches my heart to this day. My second guide dog was a yellow lab and was a very hard worker and extraordinary dog. The match was perfect. She is now of retirement age and my third guide dog, being a Smooth Collie, is also a perfect match. I live part time in Florida and part time in upstate New York. And freedom has been willing to come and train with me with my various dogs in either location. That has been very very helpful to acclimate the dogs to each surrounding. Any time that I have called and asked for help or asked questions I have always received a response and the staff is outstanding. If they don’t have an answer they’ll find it and return a call. Never have my calls or emails. Gone unanswered. Freedom is very client oriented And it is all about their dogs. They want to make sure that the matches are perfect and they’ll do anything to help whoever necessary to make that team a good working team and a safe team. Safety is there a top notch concern and I appreciate that is a totally blind handler. Another aspect of freedom that touched my heart is the fact that they will dually train dogs for not only guide work but stability if necessary. I remember going to the lighthouse in Florida, Newport Ritchie. I am meeting a young gal there who had her fourth brain tumor removal. Unfortunately, this left her not only blind, but with the right side weakness. She had applied to other guide dog schools. She had young children and wanted to be able to keep up with her family day-to-day activities. Each school she applied to did not even grant her an interview because of the dual difficulties that this brain tumor had left her. Fortunately, I told her to try Freedom Guide Dogs. She applied was granted an interview, and given a dog within a very short period of time again, a perfect match. This dog was able to do both stability as well as guiding and is still working today. I think a school that is willing to go above and beyond Should be recognized as being outstanding. Thank you. Freedom in the team for all that you do for those of us who don’t have sight to give us the freedom that we all desire to become independent in our surroundings and in society. Lynn Sisson, and guide dog Geo.

When I was a Junior in high school I needed community service hours for graduation. Freedom was nice enough to give me the hours with bathing the guide dogs in training and socializing puppies. Fast forward being evolved every year helping out with anyway I could due to me being local at college, I would temporary care for a dog that needed a home, or clean the kennel, bath dogs.
The owner of Freedom told me there was a 4 year degree for Canine Training and Management at a SUNY school, I then attended got a 4 year degree, did my internship at Freedom and got a job here. I also raised a breed dog for the organization and she had her first liter of 7, whom are all guide dogs now, and I got to train them.

Freedom gave me the opportunity to get around New York City without relying on family and friends. Since 2003 I've received 3 loving helpful Guide Dogs from Freedom Guide dogs. They are trained in a way I never could ������

This is an amazing company. I received a service dog from them and he allows me to have more freedom.
Thank you

This is such a wonderful organization that does great things for the seeing impaired!! From the puppy raising to the formal training to matching each dog with their handler and everything in between. What’s great about this organization is that they match you with the perfect dog and the trainer stays with your for weeks to make sure it’s a good match. I have nothing but greats things to say about this organization. They are also very active in the community with taking part in fundraisers and events to bring awareness.

I have had my guide dog from Freedom Dog for 11 years. I am totally blind, live in New York City, and daily face heavy sidewalk and street congestion, construction everywhere, loud noise, and obstacles. In all the time I have used Major, my guide dog, I have only experienced a few issues, usually my resistance to follow Major while out out in the city.
I have another blind friend who got a dog from Freedom Dog, and she too is very satisfied with her dog. I know two other blind people who have dogs from another local guide dog organization, and both of them have had issues with these dogs and one had to return her dog as it was not able to guide her safely on the streets.
Freedom Dog was my third try to get a service dog. Both places gave me dogs incapable of working in the city. Freedom Dog has been a blessing giving me such a wonderful, well trained dog. They have had my back all these years helping me with any issues and questions. In my opinion, Freedom Guide Dog is the finest organization supplying guide dogs on the East coast, and Midwest.
Busser Howell

Freedom Guide Dogs for the Blind has grown over the past thirty plus years to continually serve the blind community all the while maintaining their very personal connection of home town training. Their commitment to serve clients that have added physical disabilities makes their organization truly exceptional !

Freedom Guide Dogs is and an incredible organization. I have received my second guide dog from Freedom in September of last year. I couldn’t be more pleased.

Because of this organization I have the ability to move about my community independently. Both of my dogs have been incredible guides, extremely well trained.

The bonus of this organization is the family I have with other guide dog handlers and puppy raisers. It is a community of support with each other and the trainers. I love this organization! Thank you so much for all you do to support those of us with low and visual challenges!!

What can be said about an organization which helps people who are not only blind, but afflicted with Down Syndrome, to live better, independent lives with guide dogs, especially when the dog becomes the person's best friend?

What greater admiration can be given to a selfless charity which has helped brave servicemen who have lost both their sight and hands in defending our country to learn to use guides with the help of prosthetic arms.

This is a wonderful "mom and pop" group which deserves all the praise given t

Freedom Guide dogs have placed hundreds of seeing eye dogs over the decades. Their highest priority is proper placement of the right dog based on the needs of the client.

Amazing nonprofit that does so much good for the world by training service dogs! I’m so grateful to get to be a puppy raiser for them.

My guide dog exudes an air that exudes assureance and comfort in whatever situations we find ourselves. Gives me confidence knowing that we are such a great match.

After applying to several guide dog schools and being denied because of my age andwhere I live which is in the country I didn't need or would use a dog enough to be given one. Yes, we don't have public or paratransit transportation but do get out and I myself use my dog two to three times a week. Igo grocery shopping where Yahna has to take me through parkinglots, finds the entrance to the store and has learned to show me where the carts are kept so I can take one out and wait for my sighted helper. We go to We go to lawn and rummage sales and Yahna guides me through the tables without bumping me into anything wagging her tail furiously to tell me that she was proud to guide me. I have used a guide dog since 1969 and have appreciated the independence I have gotten. It was most difficult being without a dog for 18 months waiting for another dog and I was elated when Freedom called with a training date. Having the harness back in my left hand made me the happiest person. Thank you Freedom for giving me back my freedom and independence.Yahna accompanies me to medical appointments and restaurants and nobody would know she is eveen there until we get up to leave. I also appreciate the time and effort that is put in by the puppy raisers because if it weren't for them we wouldn't have such wonderful guide dogs.

After being without a guide dog for more than a year, when the campus-based guide dog schools were closed due to the COVID pandemic, I found Freedom. This home-based training program continued to serve blind people in need.
On the day of my home visit interview, a Florida hurricane brewed. I closed the storm shutters and waited by the phone, fully expecting a cancelation. Freedom’s instructor drove across the state and arrived right on time. Somehow, based on our walk in the rain and wind that day, he returned the following spring with the perfect match for me – a beautiful lab/collie mix, who has just the right speed, just the right pull, and just the right sense of humor for me! I am eternally grateful for the Freedom Guide Dog School and all who make it possible.

I have used guide dogs for about 45 years. After I retired many schools wouldn't take me because I didn't use the dog as much as they would like, or I was in the country and didn't need one. Some said I was too old.
Freedom gave me the chance to have another dog. Especially if you have had a dog most of your life, and still liked to go out, you are used to that harness in your hand, and a dog guiding you. Your guide, buddy, and you feel the confidence of going independently. You feel at a loss when you aren't with a dog, even if the trips are less, when you are ready to go, they are too.
Thanks Freedom Guide Dogs for giving some of us chances, when other schools haven't.

I have been a guide dog user for 54 years. My last two dogs have come from Freedom Guide Dogs. Two wonderful dogs. Excellent training and all around great dogs. As I am 82-years-old, Opus will be my last dog. He is such a marvelous worker and perfect for me at my age. Freedom does such a good job of matching each person with the right dog for his or her needs. Congratulations to Freedom Guide Dogs for 30 years of service to blind men and women.

I am a guide dog handler for many years and have had several guides... I was a single mother when I starting being a guide dog handler. I was very blessed learning about FREEDOM. They do home training which gave me the chance to stay at home where I was needed and to be trained with the guides in the towns I lived in. It's much easier with home traing. If you have issues or difficulties with a guide the trainees can get to the guide team faster I feel to address the situation. I AM SO BLESSED TO HAVE FREEDOM GUIDE DOGS IN MY LIFE!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH

Freedom Guide Dogs is a fantastic organization. They frequently match dogs with people who may not qualify with other organizations. Maybe you live in a rural area or walk unevenly. FGD will take the time to find the right dog for you. Also, their puppy raiser program is top notch. These pups are raised with an incredible amount of love.

My instructor brought my dog in September of 2021.

The bond was quick and solid.

We experienced all the areas my guide and I would be working and he's performed quite impressively.

The school clearly cares about the dogs and the students and outstanding teams are what's important. The involvement of the puppy raisers with the students also provides quite a bitt of helpful background.

Working a Freedom Guide Dog has been a fantastic experience.

We were puppy raisers and we got to see first hand what a wonderful organization
they have been for the blind. They do not charge those who will have a dog in the future who will be their eyes so they can live on their own. The trainers come right to the client and they train the dog to their needs in their familiar setting. The cost of training a puppy is over $25,000 and made possible only by the donations from people like us. We have enjoyed raising many dogs over the years and will continue to support this wonderful organization for the blind.

I can't say enough good things about this school and how great Eric was on listening to my needs and providing a great experience for me. I needed a dog to guide me, and a home based school is what I needed due to my busy schedule. I have had many dogs from another school, and this was my first experience switching to Freedom's home based program. Eric worked with mme closely from the time we met, to the match of a new dog, to completing the 10 day program in my hometown. I now have a beautiful black lab that is eager to guide me where I need to go. Thanks Freedom!

I am a 100% Service Connected Disabled Veteran. Freedom Guide Dogs provided me with a guide dog, Summer, this year. They were timely, empathetic to my needs and very professional. After my evaluation Summer was trained to specifically meet my needs. She was then delivered and Eric, Summer's and my trainer, spent a week with me for training at my residence. The results were unbelievable. Because of Freedom's commitment to helping those in need I am able to do many of the things I was missing out on after my blinding. Thank you, Freedom Guide Dogs and Summer!

I have known Freedom Guide Dogs for The Blind since their very beginnings at Hardscrabble Road in Cassville New York, in the early 1990's. I grew up on Hardscrabble Road and have watched FGD over the years. Having managed and worked with people all my life, I can say from experience that I have never seen anyone work as hard as the founders, Eric & Sharon, and the staff at FGD, than any group of people I have encountered. Their work ethic and compassion for helping others has been, and continues to be, second to none. The witness of FGD to their surrounding community was always demonstrated through their giving hearts, but just as important "how they gave." They never through all the years brought attention to themselves when giving to a local charity or a family that was in need. There was always a meal delivered or some personal financial help or helping hand. This heart of love and putting others ahead of yourself permeates the whole staff at FGD with their way of doing business with their blind and vision-impaired families. It is not just a business with FGD; it has always been a heartfelt love for helping those that have been brought into the path of FGD. Being connected through an occasional donation or work that I have for FGD has always been a blessing to me. "Blessed are the merciful....."

Ozzy and I first met when I was being interviewed. He was one of two dogs traveling with John Byfield that day. Little did I know then that I would be accepted into the program and training with him would start in early 2020. I was so excited, especially since I had been trying to get into a nearby program for many years. They wouldn’t take me until my balance issues cleared up. Traveling triggered that amongst other things.
What has changed since getting Ozzy? We get to walk places in my development where I had never been and where I had not been in 10 years. Believe me, being able to walk places other than my subdivision, where I had memorized where all the potholes intersections and bumps were, is really nice. I get to walk with my head up. We get to meet new people as they are very curious about Ozzy. I’m no longer scared about losing my balance nor not noticing danger.
What are my hopes for the future? They include, Ozzy by my side, going out to breakfast, exploring nearby places, meeting the couple that raised him and another Freedom client who has become a friend , and more. The deal is that with the help of Freedom Guide Dogs, I have more hope, joy and better health.
I urge you to support them, and if need, be apply.

I can’t say enough wonderful things about the entire staff at Freedom Guide Dogs for the Blind. Allot of love, hard work and dedication goes into the breeding, raising, training and placement of their sweet-tempered, well-mannered, confident guide dogs.

Through hometown training, Freedom gave me two great guide dogs that were willing and able to tackle anything I asked of them. They walked with their heads and tails held high, always ready for the next adventure. The more difficult the challenge, the more confident and fearless they became. With my Freedom dogs at my side, I became confident and fearless as well. My dogs truly changed my life.

Thank you Freedom Guide Dogs!!!

Kim O

Freedom Guide Dogs for the Blind is a wonderful organization. They are so dedicated and passionate about the work that they do and the clients they serve. From breeding to whelping to working with great volunteers who raise these puppies all the way to the trainers who formally train and successfully place the dogs with their handlers they are 100% dedicated in their mission.

Five years ago, I joined a knitting group. This is where I met Sue and her guide dog Lacey. We quickly became friends Unfortunately, a few years later Lacey passed away unexpectedly. Sue was devastated (actually, we all were). Sue began her search for another dog. As soon as Sue contacted Eric and he put his nose to the ground, he performed a miracle. He matched Sue with Braelyn! She is exactly what Sue needed. Sue was able to quickly resume her normal life with Braelyn at her side. They are a wonderful pair. Thank you, Eric, and Freedom Guide Dogs.

A good friend has a Freedom Guide Dog. The dog is an important element in allowing her to live a full and independent life. The dog came, well trained, but Freedom's trainer came to where my friend lives and worked with both their client and the guide dog to be sure that they could manage together in their regular setting. Getting to know the dog better, I find her to be the most loving animal I have known, but when it is time to go to work and the harness is on she is focused on what she has been trained to do. Hats off to Freedom Guide Dogs for going the second mile to assure a successful match of person and guide dog.

It's been 6 Months that Freedom Guide Dogs of Cassville NY connected my 20 year old son with Mateo ( Matty). Freedom Guide Dog Staff, Breeding Program, Training in my sons enviroment and Matty abilities that are consistent each day are no question five star. Eric Loori and his staff demonstrated there ability to adjust to the need of the individual - this takes special people. In this case for a young man with Down Syndrome. They likely didn't realize at the time the impact this would have for Mom and Dad in making some of our life task with a person with almost no sight better. Six months later to be able to go into a Walmart/Home Depot/Concert/Restaurant/Dr. Office/ Work ect.. with Ryan and Matty working independently and knowing that Matty can help find the steps and obstacles. The confidence for Ryan is obvious as he works thru his surrounding. From a parent I ask you to consider a charitable donation as it's easy to see the cost and expenses to provide this service - if you see a seeing eye dog work you'll know it was worth it. From a Dad Brian Townley

I became totally blind at age forty, and when I came to New York City, I decided that I needed to have a guide dog for mobility in the city. Previously I had been dependent upon either a sighted guide, or on my cane traveling skills that were never great and always made me uncomfortable. I tried two different guide dog schools, and after receiving both dogs, found them unreliable and not fit to work in the city. Ready to give up on getting a guide dog, a friend recommended Freedom Guide Dog. Within less than a year, I got Major, my lab who has changed my life. New York City is constantly filled with chaos, construction, traffic jams, and obstacles on the sidewalks. From the beginning, Major has been a calm, dependable, trustworthy guide dog that has not only traversed all of these issues, but has given me back my freedom and independence that I thought disappeared with my vision. The staff at Freedom Guide Dog has always bent over backwards to be helpful and supportive whether it is about a handling issue, or health question. I know other blind people in the city that have guide dogs supplied from other schools, and I can say , hands down, that Major is far superior to any of my previous dogs or those of my blind friends. Freedom Guide Dog Organization deserves all the accolades and support possible. In my opinion, they are one of the finest suppliers of guide dogs in the country.
Busser Howell

I became familiar with Freedom when my friend and former Talking Books volunteer Sue Harden of Bradenton, FL suddenly lost her beautiful dog Lacy. She was bereft and lost, not having been able to make the usual plans for a retirement and new companion. A reach out to Freedom brought Braelyn into her life in the best of time. so Braelyn has been a life saver to Sue and also to all her friends of whom there are many. Braelyn is a precious gift loved by all and she keeps a very active senior citizen engaged in her life and active in her community through various volunteer activities. She and Freedom have my gratitude and respect.

Major is a well trained beautiful guide dog. His bond with his owner Busser is amazing to watch. A bond I have never witnessed before. He offers my friend Busser the freedom to be independent and be cared for at the same time. I know my friend is safe with Major and that is something that is priceless to me.

Xander, a guide dog trained by Freedom Guide Dogs, gives my blind husband the security to navigate safely through airports, cities, hotels, to his office or anywhere else he chooses to go, with or without a sighted person. The dog anticipates black ice on the pavement 30 feet away, and makes adjustments to avoid this and other hazards. He performs well on escalators, finds doors, elevators, and the right room at hotels when traveling for business and pleasure. I am grateful to Freedom Guide Dogs for giving Xander the exceptional training that gives my husband the independence to pursue his life’s goals and not be restricted by his inability to see. Xander, like other dogs trained by The folks at Freedom, is a life changer!

I am proud to be a breeder of multiple Smooth Collies that have been accepted into the Freedom Guide Program. Seeing the difference my dogs make is very rewarding!

My name is Kim. My freedom guide dog is GInny. I had no idea what a difference she would make in my life, but I can't imagine life w/o her. She has made it possible for me to go back to work, spend less time on worrying about where my feet are, and more time to enjoy my children instead when we are out. So very greatful for all they have done for me!! Thank you!!

I'm currently raising my third Freedom Guide Dogs puppy (I've raised four other guide dog puppies from two other guide dog schools). I can't say enough good things about Freedom. They truly take the time to match the right dog with the right person. And when you make a donation to Freedom, your dollars really make a difference.

Eric & Sharon Loori work hard for a mission they believe in. When I donate to Freedom, my money is utilized for actual day-to-day expenses that keep the puppy program going (i.e. heartworm & flea prevention for puppies in training).

I couldn't be prouder than being a Freedom Guide Dog puppy raiser!

i became involved with freedom guide dogs just over 6 years ago, when i became a puppy raiser. I read a lot of info on this organization and attended an open house to become more acquainted. I have to tell you i was hooked right from the start. This organization is a well-oiled machine. There was so much interaction between Sharon and Eric right from puppy raisers to trainers to the clients who receive the guide dogs. Freedom guide dog staff work tirelessly to make sure placements are a good fit, and if not they work harder to make sure the clients get what they need.

I've known the folks at Freedom Guide Dogs for quite a few years. They are an amazing bunch. Focused on doing what's right for the dog as well as the person receiving the wonderful service dog. I've been a puppy raiser and a breeder dog care giver. Always answered my questions for training and anything I wasn't sure of. I hope to someday have time again to puppy raise. It was a fantastic experience and for a wonderful cause!

I had a guide dog two different times from Freedom Guide Dogs. Both dogs were returned. One dog jumped on everyone and everything and the other one walked so fast I was being dragged constantly plus it led me into traffic repeatedly. This was not the type of behavior I expected from a guide dog. It makes me scared to ever try to get a guide dog again. I was completely devastated both times that I had to return the dogs but they were not meeting my needs.

I am a puppy raiser for Freedom and they made the process to get involved simple and efficient. I am proud to be a part of this program.

I have meet Freedom a few times. The most recent was at a fund raiser but that was a couple of years ago. They had a dog with them that was in training. She laid at their feet and just looked around. Towards the end of the night she was allowed out of harness and was able to greet people. I have friends that raise for them and the pups are well socialized and taken care of like their own. I have seen video of their dogs in action, they are truly amazing.

I have the honor of fostering one of the precious dogs for this organization. The team in Cassville is always available to answer questions and share their knowledge.
The kennel is clean and professional.

We are now raising out 2nd dog with Freedom (our 9th Guide Dog ever). The experience raising for Freedom is absolutely wonderful. They are beyond professional. Thank you for allowing us to join you as raisers.

I have raised two guide dog puppies with Freedom and I am very happy to work with them. They know the right amount of help versus allowing raisers autonomy. I am also very happy they placed my first pup with a wonderful human and family who has really made the guide dog part of their family. Before raising for Freedom, I raised for another school that was hit or miss depending on the local and supervisory personalities involved. Freedom trusts me to raise the puppy right and gives me the support I need with no drama and no micromanagement. I'd definitely recommend them to anyone looking to volunteer to raise a dog.

I was a puppy raiser for this organization. They run a top notch nonprofit business. Helping people in need is not just what they do. They are breeding, raising, teaching, and training, dogs and people to help people. Thank you Freedom Guide dogs.

Ten years ago,my vision faded away, and so did my independence. Freedom Guide Dogs for the Blind came to the rescue by providing a highly trained guide dog. Eric, the trainer, was patient and calm while teaching me to work as a team with Elliott, my first Freedom guide dog. Hometown training was convenient because I live in a very rural town and did not want to go to a training facility in an unfamiliar city to learn to work with a dog guide in surroundings that were also unfamiliar. Elliott and I were able to learn the streets, sidewalks, stores and offices that we would visit nearly every day. Having a guide dog from Freedom restored my confidence, independence and provided a four-legged companion with whom I could safely walk through daily life. Now, ten years later, Wags, a brilliant yellow Lab from Freedom, has replaced my dear Elliott. Freedom Guide Dogs for the Blind provided much more than training and support - they offered an open door to live an active, meaningful life with joy and freedom.

Our family has raised four puppies and served on the board of Freedom Guide Dogs. it is an amazing organization that not only helps the visually impaired but also our wounded veterans. I can’t say enough about this amazing organization.

We've been volunteers for Freedom Guide Dogs for over ten years. In that time we have served on the Board, been a volunteer grant proposal writer, worked on events and helped wherever we could. In that time we have seen the number of trained guide dogs per year increase each and every year. Donations are used to help more people each and every year while administrative expenses are kept to the bare minimum. If you want to donate the most help to clients from your each dollar you give, then Freedom Guide Dogs should be your charity.

Freedom Guide Dogs is an amazing organization. We have been puppy raisers for 7-8 years and have raised 6 guide dog pups, starting our 7th soon. They have many special qualities: exceptional breeding of beautifully tempered and intelligent English Labradors, Hometown Training which allows clients to be trained with their new guide dog in their own community, servicing of clients who are not only blind or visually impaired but also have secondary disabilities, providing Barbets and Standard Poodles for clients with allergies, and rising to the placement of about 40 guide dogs per year on a very modest budget. Co-founders Sharon and Eric Loori and very sensitive to the needs of their clients and go the extra mile to provide for them.

My husband has been blind from birth. He waited for many years to get a guide dog due to the fact he could not be away from work for an extended period of time. We discovered Freedom Guide Dogs that offered Hometown Training, where they come to you. It was a godsend. My husband received his first dog Piper approximately 10 years ago. He guided my husband Bill faithfully until his retirement last year. Then Freedom placed Banner with my husband. He could not have been happier. He has performed perfectly. The Hometown Training made all the difference in the world. Would not for that, my husband would never have gotten a guide dog and would have been forever dependent on others.

THIS IS A GREAT ORGANIZATION AND A PLACE WHERE YOUR DONATION CAN REALLY MAKE A DIFERENCE.
I am a very skeptical and cynical New Yorker and have been very disappointed when I learned more about many well known and not so well known nonprofits. Freedom Guide Dogs, on the other hand, is a place where your money truly helps those in need.
We are not personal friends but I have met Eric Loori, who founded and runs this organization and can tell you he is a man with few needs in life other than helping others. He lives a modest life dedicated to his cause. As an example, when he has come to New York on official business, he searches for the most economical accommodations available and if someone's couch is available, he will take it. Your hard earned donations are NOT spent at The Four Seasons, as I suspect they are with many larger organizations.
Small size is another factor. As you can see by the filing, this is a real "mom and pop" sized organization. YOUR money can really make an impact.
Mr. Loori is a remarkable man. Once I saw him speak about solving the problem, engineering wise, of building the guide apparatus for a man who was not only blind but physically disabled as well. I don't know that I have even seen anyone happier than he was at that moment.
Please note, I am a donor but NOT AFFILIATED with this nonprofit in any other way.
Robert Braglia
New York City