Saving Vision
History:
Ever since Helen Keller challenged Lions to become the "Knights of the Blind", Lions Clubs from around the world have initiated programs aimed at helping vision- and hearing-impaired people.
Take Action:
Two bills have been introduced in Congress to provide early vision tests to young children in hopes of diagnosing vision disabilities earlier in life. Children could then receive needed services at a young age. Contact the House of Representatives, where these bills have been introduced.
"This is the opportunity I offer you, Lions—to foster and sponsor the work of the American Foundation for the Blind. Will you not help me hasten the day when there shall be no preventable blindness, no little deaf blind child untaught, no blind man or woman unaided? I appeal to you, Lions—you who have your sight, your hearing, you who are strong and brave and kind—will you not constitute yourselves Knights of the Blind in my crusade against darkness?"
Hellen Keller
1925 Lions International Convention
Cedar Point, Ohio
Programs & Activities:
Foundation Fighting Blindness -- Committed to driving the research for blinding diseases.
Lions Eyeglass Recycling Program -- Collecting and processing used eyeglasses and making them available to people in need around the world to improve vision and quality of life for people who cannot afford glasses. Centers are volunteer-driven initiatives where glasses are cleaned, sorted, and distributed.
LERCNOVA -- Lions Eyeglass Recycling Center in Northern Virginia
Lions Kidsight USA -Bringing Lions Clubs across the country together to ensure children receive needed eye screenings and follow-up care.
Virginia Lions Eye Institute Foundation (VLEIF) -- Assisting low-vision individuals with needed care.