The Essilor Vision Foundation and The Special Olympics Foundation recently had the honor of participating in the 2012 Clinton Global Initiative Annual Meeting in New York City. On the opening day of the annual meeting, President Bill Clinton announced a $12 million grant from businessman and philanthropist Tom Golisano to the Special Olympics, which will allow for the launch of a new Healthy Communities initiative.
A longtime partner to the Special Olympics, the Essilor Vision Foundation has been the exclusive global supplier of corrective lenses for the Special Olympics-Lions Club International Opening Eyes vision care program. As part of the Healthy Athletes program launched in 1997, Opening Eyes promotes healthy vision for Special Olympic athletes and includes vision screenings, corrective and sports protective eyewear for athletes in need and referrals for athletes requiring follow-up treatment and services.
Discussing the Special Olympics new Healthy Communities Initiative were, (l to r) Timothy Shriver, Bill Clinton, Al Brandel, Stephen Shawler, and Timothy Shriver, Jr.
“As a proud partner to the Special Olympics Foundation, we are ecstatic to watch the opportunities this generous donation will unfold for the foundation’s future,” said Stephen Shawler, president of the Essilor Vision Foundation. “The Special Olympics Foundation, like that of the Essilor Vision Foundation, aims to improve health for everyone – not just those who can afford expensive care and treatment. We couldn’t be any prouder to call the Special Olympics Foundation a partner.”
The goal of the Special Olympics Healthy Communities initiative is to achieve improved health outcomes for people with intellectual disabilities, with the ultimate goal of ensuring that all are receiving health services, reaching their full potential. It will expand services to more athletes, increase partnerships with local organizations, expand the use of technology and promote awareness of the health difficulties facing people with intellectual disabilities.
To learn more about the Essilor Vision Foundation and its programs, including details of upcoming events, tips for families and vision facts, or to make a donation, visit essilorvisionfoundation.org.
