General Program Requirements

Proof of disability and/or military service Requirements:

In order to work within our mission requirements, many of our programs are for those with a disability and some programs are for those that also served in the military.  Over the years there has been an increase in people “faking” disabilities and military service in order to take advantage of programs offered by nonprofits.  This takes away from those that are being honest.  So that we can assist those that do have a disability or are veterans, we do require proof of the disability and/or military service. Accepted proof is listed below.

Note: Please Black Out your social security number when submitting any documentation.  While our website is secure, we do not need and will never ask for your social security number.

Proof of Disability:

  • Statements or letters on a physician’s/medical professional’s letterhead stationary.
  • Statements, records or letters from a Federal Government agency that issues or provides disability benefits.
  • Statements, records or letters from a State Vocational Rehabilitation Agency counselor.
  • Certification from a private Vocational Rehabilitation or other Counselor that issues or provides disability benefits.
  • VA Disability rating letter.

Proof of Military Service:

This is for military/veteran specific programs only.  Some programs are grant funded for military/veterans.  If the program is not listed as military/veteran specific then you do not have to submit proof.

  • DD-214 (black out SSN)
  • Military ID
  • Retired Military ID
  • Veteran ID
  • Veteran Status on State ID

Age Requirements:

We do not discriminate against age.  However, most of our programs are separated between “adult” and “youth”.  Adult programs are only open to individuals over 18 years of age as of the date of the program.  youth programs are for those under 18 at the time of the program.

Acceptance of Risk:

Most of our programs occur in an outdoor environment that can have various terrain, unpredictable weather and maybe considered “strenuous”.  Part of our mission is to “challenge” our participants, but we do have a very strong focus on safety.  We highly encourage participants, volunteers and guides to ask questions before a program.  Everyone involved in a program should be open with the program leader(s) about their feelings and limitations during the program.  All participants will be required to sign a release of liability waiver.

Travel Requirements:

Most of our programs are fully funded through generous contributions from our sponsors and donors.  The cost of travel is paid but there are certain requirements that we adhere to.

Air Travel: Seating in coach with one checked bag will be paid for.  Any upgrades or changes are the responsibility of the participant.  A Blind Endeavors Foundation Representative will work with participants to book air travel.  Participants must submit a deposit of $250 or the cost of the airline ticket (whichever is less) that is non-refundable if the participant does not attend the event.  The deposit will be returned when the participant arrives to the program.

Personal Vehicle: For those driving or getting a ride, fuel expenses will be paid for.  You must have this approved prior to traveling by submitting a travel request form.  All receipts must be turned in within 10 days for reimbursement.  Lost receipts will not be reimbursed.  Reimbursements will be paid by check within 10 days after submitting receipts and travel request form.

Train / Bus: Seating in coach with one checked bag will be paid for.  Any upgrades or changes are the responsibility of the participant.  A Blind Endeavors Foundation Representative will work with participants to book air travel.  Participants must submit a deposit of $100 or the cost of the ticket (whichever is less) that is non-refundable if the participant does not attend the event.

Cancellations: Sometimes things happen and we understand.  Participants / Volunteers should notify us as soon as possible should you not be able to make it to an event.  This lets us offer a spot to a standby participant.  Due to airline restrictions we do not receive a refund for cancellations and this is costly to the organization.  The refund for the ticket goes to the traveler, not the organization.  For this reason we ask for a deposit for travel that will be returned upon the participant’s arrival to the program.

Meals:

We try our hardest to work within dietary needs.  However, we do have our limitations with certain events.  Please make us aware of your dietary needs and we will try our best to accommodate.

Service Animals:

We love service animals, however, many of our events occur in outdoor environments that may not always be suitable for service animals or may cause increased stress on the service animal.  Please contact us for options regarding service animals prior to attending the event.

Caregivers / Spouses:

Programs are focused primarily for participants only.  We arrange for sighted guides during our programs so we encourage participants to come on their own.  If a caregiver/spouse does attend, their travel/lodging is the responsibility of the participant.  There might be volunteer opportunities that we could work with if a caregiver/spouse would like to volunteer, but this is a case by case situation.  Please contact us for more information regarding this type of situation.

Gear & Clothing:

We will supply a gear/clothing list prior to the event.  Any specialized gear/clothing will be provided for use but the participant is welcome to use their own gear but is subject to a safety inspection.  Options to purchase gear/clothing will be available after the completion of the program.