Enhancing the independence & self-confidence of people who are blind

Mission

The Seeing Eye is a philanthropic organization whose mission is to enhance the independence, dignity and self-confidence of blind people through the use of Seeing Eye® dogs.

In pursuit of this mission, The Seeing Eye:

- Breeds and raises puppies to become Seeing Eye dogs
- Trains Seeing Eye dogs to guide blind people
- Instructs blind people in the proper use, handling and care of the dogs
- Conducts and supports research on canine health and development

Why It Matters

TEAM LEWIS recognizes The Seeing Eye’s vision of sustained excellence and continuous improvement as the best guide dog school to attend and support. This organization continues to increase the independence and dignity of people who are blind — at all times treating applicants, students and graduates with respect. It plays an integral role in educating the public about the use of dog guides and the capabilities of people who are blind. It even provides recommendations regarding public policy issues. TEAM LEWIS is proud to support The Seeing Eye through its Causes program.

The Seeing Eye has been a huge part of my life and is partially based in my hometown of Chester, NJ. I began volunteering at the breeding center when it opened in 2000 and while in high school, I became part of the Puppy Raising Program, raising three very good boys – two of whom (Lincoln and Neal) successfully matriculated into the guide dog program.

I raised a third dog, Peaches, who was not accepted into the guide dog program as he was too easily distracted by kids and wanting to play. I was given the ability to adopt Peaches back, and he became a certified Reading Buddy for the Boston Public Library and a visiting therapy dog at Boston Children’s Hospital for 9 years.

– Melinda Ball, Managing Director at TEAM LEWIS