VEW 2024: The Vision Council Foundation empowers consumers and develops the optical workforce

Ashley Mills, CEO of The Vision Council, discussed the launch of the The Vision Council Foundation to better empower consumers with unbiased vision care information and promote workforce development opportunities. The Vision Council Foundation aims to enhance consumer awareness of annual eye exams, vision correction options, and lifestyle products through educational resources. Turnkey marketing materials on timely topics like myopia management are provided free for eye care providers to customize and use locally, while the Foundation amplifies key messages nationally.

A critical focus is the "Opening Your Eyes" scholarship program, which provides funding for students from diverse backgrounds to attend accredited opticianry schools. Over two years, 28 students have graduated with the Foundation's support. Scholarship recipients are also matched with Vision Council-affiliated companies for internships and jobs, addressing the shortage of opticians and optometrists.

Mills highlighted the Foundation's role in educating consumers on all benefits of vision care and equating it with general health. Non-branded resources are made available for professionals to share with patients. Plans are underway to develop and distribute materials around vision safety and night driving for the upcoming darker months in the autumn and winter.

Looking ahead, Mills announced the upcoming move of Vision Expo East to Orlando next February. Attendees can expect to learn details about the new event format soon. Eye care providers and professionals are encouraged to utilize free resources on The Vision Council Foundation website and promote the information to patients. Through educational outreach and workforce development initiatives, the Foundation aims to support both consumers and the optical industry.