Pilot Dogs Camp M.O.V.E (Mobility) (Opportunity) (Venture) (Exploration)

It's sobering to realize that over 54,000 blind or visually impaired teenagers in the U.S. often lack crucial support during their formative years. Recognizing this gap, Pilot Dogs Camp M.O.V.E., launching the week of July 20, 2026, aims to be a vital resource. This completely free, week-long summer program for 14- to 17-year-olds will offer specialized orientation & mobility and guide dog readiness training, a unique opportunity as one of only three such programs nationwide. Without this targeted support, these young individuals face significant barriers to independence and a potentially diminished quality of life.

Pilot Dogs Camp M.O.V.E. ignites the potential of blind and visually impaired teenagers aged 14-17 within a 450-mile radius of our Columbus, Ohio headquarters. This transformative program delivers expert-led Orientation & Mobility (O&M) instruction, immersive simulated guide dog experiences, and invaluable connections with accomplished blind and visually impaired peers, all strategically designed to empower their journey toward independence. We are honored to collaborate with the following esteemed institutions, ensuring we reach and serve these deserving students.

Tennessee School for the Blind (Nashville, TN)
Ohio State School for the Blind (Columbus, OH)
Kentucky School for the Blind (Louisville, KY)
West Virginia School for the Deaf & Blind (Romney, WV)
Indiana School for the Blind & Visually Impaired (Indianapolis, IN)
Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children (Pittsburgh, PA)

Camp M.O.V.E. transcends traditional skills training, cultivating a vibrant community where teens forge lasting bonds with peers who understand their unique experiences. Through thoughtfully curated activities, participants explore their creativity via themed arts projects, discover a richer world through novel sensory engagements, embrace the thrill of adventure through inclusive recreation, and gain hands-on experience with the latest assistive technology.

From demystifying cutting-edge mobility devices to expressing themselves through tactile art, Camp M.O.V.E. is a catalyst for profound personal growth. It meticulously fosters independence, instills unwavering confidence, and strategically prepares these young individuals for successful transitions into college, fulfilling careers, and active engagement within their communities.

We are committed to demonstrating the tangible impact of Camp M.O.V.E. We anticipate that participants will exhibit a measurable increase in O&M confidence, rigorously assessed through pre- and post-camp evaluations. Furthermore, we expect to observe significant improvements in their social skills, evidenced through peer interactions and comprehensive surveys. Ultimately, our vision is to empower a higher percentage of participants to pursue higher education or vocational training, paving the way for brighter futures. To ascertain the enduring effects of our program, we will conduct a thorough follow-up survey 6-12 months post-camp, ensuring that the seeds of independence are sown at Camp M.O.V.E. continue to blossom.

Pickle with Purpose | Presented by Lehman Daman

Benefitting Camp MOVE | Pilot Dog's Youth Summer Camp for the Blind & Visually Impaired

Team Members