Lauren Carlson
Prison Puppies Program
Leader Dog’s Prison Puppies initiative trains inmates to raise Future Leader Dogs. Seven-week-old puppies are assigned to carefully screened inmates who demonstrate good behavior. Over 12 to 15 months, raisers teach their puppy basic cues, socialization and essential skills.
Selected inmates undergo application and interview processes. Monthly training sessions led by volunteer puppy counselors provide ongoing support, supplemented by raising manuals. Leader Dog covers all expenses including food, veterinary care and supplies, while inmates provide 24/7 care alongside their prison responsibilities.
The program produces highly successful Leader Dogs and transforms prison environments. Puppies boost morale, reduce tensions and improve social interactions among inmates and staff. Participants develop patience, compassion and self-esteem while contributing meaningfully to their communities. Hundreds of puppies have graduated from the program.
Prison Puppies currently operates in the following facilities:
| Facility Name | State |
|---|---|
| Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution | Lima, OH |
| Bellamy Creek Correctional Facility | Ionia, MI |
| Chippewa Correctional Facility | Kincheloe, MI |
| G. Robert Cotton Correctional Facility | Jackson, MI |
| Grafton Correctional Institution | Grafton, OH |
| Ionia Correctional Facility (ICF) | Ionia, MI |
| Lino Lakes Correctional Facility | Lino Lakes, MN |
| Macomb Correctional Facility | New Haven, MI |
| Marquette Branch Prison | Marquette, MI |
| Oaks Correctional Facility | Manistee, MI |
| Richard A Handlon Correctional Facility | Ionia, MI |
| Trumbull Correctional Institution | Leavittsburg, OH |
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Join Us For Dinner in the Dark!
Presented by AAA The Auto Club Group - March 20, 2026
Our signature fundraiser will take place at the Palazzo Grande in Shelby Township, MI. Every dollar raised supports life-changing programs at no cost to our clients, empowering people who are blind or low vision to live independent, confident lives.
The evening includes a family style dinner, an open bar, hors d'oeuvres, an ice cream and cannoli platter, an espresso station, and on-location parking.
A New Issue of the Faithful Friends Newsletter Is Out!
In our latest Faithful Friends newsletter, we highlight ways we are helping Leader Dog clients — and we invite you to learn how you can make a difference.