Connection Without Boundaries

For many people, community is tied to a geographic place—a shared space where connection happens. But for Leader Dog clients, connection doesn’t depend on location. It’s something that can be built and nurtured from anywhere.

Two virtual groups are helping clients find that sense of belonging, offering meaningful ways to connect with others who share similar experiences. These online communities offer clients the opportunity to ask questions, receive support and recognize milestones along the journey with vision loss.

Leader Dog’s monthly peer support calls, held via Zoom, bring together 50–60 clients from across the country. Facilitated by Krista Oliver, client support and wellness specialist and a Leader Dog client herself, these sessions are intentionally client-led. With support from fellow clients and volunteers Joey Johnson and Walker Jones, the calls create space for open conversation and shared learning.

“Many Leader Dog alumni are the only person in their town who is blind or low vision, which can feel isolating,” Krista says. “Having an opportunity each month to share experiences and hear from others helps us feel less alone, more seen and understood. It also builds confidence as we exchange ideas and resources.”

For clients like Ann Marie W., that shared space offers both practical guidance and reassurance. “In the peer support group, I’ve learned that we all face challenges in different ways and don’t always have the same access to resources,” she says. “So many of my questions—what to expect, how to do things—have been answered through others’ experiences, tips and ideas. It’s helped me in my daily life as my vision changes and reminds me that we’re not alone in this journey.”

The virtual client community continues between calls in a private Facebook group for clients and alumni. Here, connections happen every day—whether someone is preparing for class, reflecting on their experience or seeking advice.

Client Cynthia N. joined the Facebook group as she was preparing to join the guide dog program and found exactly what she was looking for. “The Leader Dog alumni Facebook group has given me a true sense of community,” she says. “It’s connected me with people who understand this journey, and I’ve learned so much from the challenges and solutions others share.”

Together, these spaces ensure that no matter where clients call home, they are never navigating their journey alone.

Leader Dog also hosts bi-monthly virtual groups for family members, friends and loved ones. Co-facilitated by Ronit Szczotka, volunteer and the daughter of a Leader Dog client, and Krista Oliver, these sessions provide a welcoming space to learn, ask questions and connect with others who are supporting someone with vision loss.

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