Ali Fairhurst

With great sadness, Guiding Eyes for the Blind announces the passing of our colleague and friend, Alison Fairhurst.

Ali loved Guiding Eyes and genuinely cared for our mission and the people we serve.  In her too-short time with us, she made a powerful, lasting impact.  As web and multimedia specialist, she befriended our graduate council and significantly enhanced the Guiding Eyes website experience for our blind and visually impaired community.

Her work included the design of engaging marketing materials that recruited new volunteers and donors; one of her favorites was the Giving Tuesday circular, which helped us acquire more than three times the amount of donations than we had received on the same day in the prior year.  Ali was also a driving force in live-streaming our graduation ceremonies; her efforts made it possible for people around the world to celebrate our newest guide dog teams.

Ali’s ability to connect with animals was truly remarkable.  Her quiet kindness and affection were eagerly received by animals of all species, including her kittens, Lee-loo and Buttons, and her rabbit, Miss Cleo.  Future guide dog Maggie was fostered by Ali and flourished under her care.

Ali has touched the lives of so many – her family and friends, staff members, graduates, and of course, the countless animals lucky enough to spend time with her.  She will be deeply missed.

Services will be held at McMahon Funeral Home: 491 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains.  Visiting hours are Friday from 4-8pm and the funeral service is on Saturday at noon.  All are welcome to join us in celebration of Ali’s life.