Aug. 8, 2024 — The Vision Council (TVC) has launched The Vision Council Foundation, a philanthropic arm aimed at expanding knowledge and access to eye health resources. The foundation's new website will serve as a central hub for education, research, and marketing tools for both professionals and consumers.
Abigail Crosby has joined the foundation as the partnership and business development manager, focusing on strengthening relationships with donors and securing funding for the foundation's programs.
The Vision Council Foundation aims to bridge gaps among manufacturers, eyecare providers, and consumers, with efforts informed by its members in the optical industry. The foundation’s initiatives are also supported by industry data from TVC’s inSights Research Program, which provides analysis on the state of the vision care industry.
The foundation's initiatives include the following:
- National Sunglasses Day promotes the importance of wearing sunglasses to protect eyes from UV rays.
- Children’s Eye Health encourages annual eye exams for children, especially around back-to-school time.
- Low Vision and Myopia Management provides research-backed tools and access to specialty care.
- Vision 101 offers a comprehensive guide to eye health, including common vision terms, eye conditions, and the roles of different ECPs.
Additionally, the foundation is working to address the shortage of ECPs by supporting diverse entrants into the field. The Opening Your Eyes Scholarship Fund, which recently saw a record-breaking number of graduates, assists high school seniors from underrepresented communities in pursuing careers in opticianry.
“The Vision Council Foundation is the manifestation of our mission to achieve better vision for better lives,” says Ashley Mills, CEO of TVC and The Vision Council Foundation. “Everybody has a part to play in raising awareness about eye health and championing the many resources to address eye health needs. Our foundation’s resources offer an easy pathway for individuals and organizations to join us in this commitment.”