Because it believes that everyone deserves to see their best to live their best, National Vision supports mission trips through chapters of Student Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity (SVOSH) at the schools and colleges of optometry. National Vision provides $1,000 per school each year to help with the costs of going on mission trips. In addition, anyone going on a mission trip can request a glasses pack of 300 readers and 100 sunglasses that will be provided at no cost. Find more information here, or by e-mailing Kristen Reynolds or calling her at (470) 448-2139.
National Vision also has a grant program through which third- and fourth-year optometry students compete for a $5,000 grand prize. For the 2016-2017 program, entrants must write a 500-word essay or create a short video sharing their perspectives on the impact of technology on the field of optometry in the past and how it will influence their future careers as optometrists. Submissions are due by January 31, 2017. Additional information and entry requirement details can be found in the student section of the company’s website. All questions regarding the program should be e-mailed to Carly Schenck.