What is 1-By Design’s mission?
1-By Design’s mission is to Train and Win for our primary beneficiaries with the intention of encouraging philanthropic activities and financial commitment for the blind, visually impaired and their seeing eye canine service companions. Your sponsorship supports that mission. 100% all contributions are used in the support of our mission.

How much does it cost to raise a canine service dog?
The costs per dog are approximately $75,000 to $100,000 to breed, raise, train and match a dog, as well as to support the team throughout their lifetime together.

Do all canine service dogs graduate?
Only 3 to 4 dogs will graduate to become a service dog. Dogs that are not able to move forward with the program are offered for a fee to non-impaired families. Given the extensive training these dogs receive they are in great demand with a waiting list of 10 to 12 months.

Can blind or visually impaired people sail?
Yes. Blind Sailing International (BSI) started a class of Fleet racing which provides visually impaired sailors with a level playing field where lack of sight is no longer a disadvantage. Generally, these sailors race on keel boats, anything from 22 foot to 30 foot and race in teams of four people, two visually impaired and two sighted.

How do blind or visually impaired sailors race?
The helmsman, who is responsible for the steering, is always visually impaired. The tactician is sighted and not allowed to take part in the physical sailing of the boat. There is a visually impaired crew member and a sighted crew member who take care of the sails and trim of the boat.

Where can I find more information on sailing for the blind or visually impaired?
Sailors who are blind or visually impaired have been involved in organized sailing programs since 1979. However, only within the past 20 years has blind sailing in the U.S. become more widespread and recognized. In addition, blind sailing has taken on an international aspect, with eight world blind sailing Championships having been held since 1992. For more information, please be sure to visit  Blind Sailing International (click here) see more at: http://www.ussailing.org/education/adaptive-sailing/blind-sailing/#sthash.gZcPMZxn.dpu

How are 1-By Design crew members chosen and what is their time commitment?
Crew members must be athletically fit and must have past sailing experience. As with any sport they must be knowledgeable about the rules and eager to learn. The time commitment is the most challenging.

How long is a Regatta?
Regattas themselves are generally 3-5 days long. During the course of the season a crew member can spend 3 to 4 weeks on the water and an equal 3 to 4 weeks onshore aiding with race preparations for a total of 2 to 3 month’s seasonal commitment.