Orientation & Mobility Internship
Edward T. and Ellen K. Dryer Foundation Orientation & Mobility Internship Academy
Leader Dogs for the Blind has been providing orientation and mobility services through the Orientation & Mobility program since 2002. The program was awarded a 2012 AFB Access Award. Leader Dogs for the Blind expanded this program to provide university-prepared orientation and mobility students with a diverse and practical experience for learning to teach orientation and mobility through the The Edward T. and Ellen K. Dryer Foundation Orientation & Mobility Internship Academy, which was founded in 2013.
An O&M internship at Leader Dogs for the Blind will truly prepare the intern for a career as an orientation & mobility specialist. Throughout the internship process the intern will have a multitude of teaching and learning experiences including, but not limited to, the following:
- Orientation and Mobility program: a five-day residential course designed to accelerate the learning process of white, long cane travel with one-on-one instruction.
- Integration of location technology (GPS) in O&M and guide dog class curriculum.
- Leader Dog class support for clients receiving guide dog mobility training who may require additional O&M instruction.
- Leader Dog Teen Summer Camp (available during summer internship only): a seven-day camp for 16- and 17-year-olds designed to promote leadership through personal accountability. Experiences are provided to enhance orientation and mobility through GPS travel, gain knowledge regarding guide dog mobility, and explore challenges and opportunities.
The Leader Dogs for the Blind O&M internship is a premier internship. Not all applicants will be awarded this opportunity. Each year, one orientation & mobility internship is available beginning in January, two internships are available beginning in May and one internship in late August. Lodging and meals during the internship are available to accepted interns. Additionally, a $1000.00 stipend is awarded at the completion of the internship.
Application Process
Interested interns should submit the following materials to our manager of extended services, Erica Ihrke:
- Resume
- Letter/email of university faculty support
- Letter/email of interest
Once we have received the above items, an virtual interview with prospective interns will be arranged. Applicants will receive instructions to submit a video of their emerging teaching skills to accompany their interview. Placement* will be determined after a background check.
* Please understand that placement of an O&M internship at Leader Dogs for the Blind is not guaranteed.
Questions? Contact our manager of extended services, Erica Ihrke, by phone at 888-777-5332 or email.
