Leader Dogs for The Blind was founded in 1939 by Lions Club members, Charles Nutting, Don Schuur and S.A. Dodge. Leader Dogs for The Blind has successfully matched and graduated more than 13,000 person/dog teams since its inception. Its staff is more than 100 strong. Its facilities are located on the original 14 acres first purchased by the founders, has a residence center, a kennel and well-manicured grounds. This complex is home to its students, dogs, all services departments and the support staff. It is a member of the United States Council of Dog Guide Schools and the International Guide Dog Federation. These bodies keep dog guide schools accountable for their actions, program additions and modifications. The International Guide Dog Federation reassesses members every five years.