Windsor Lions Donate to Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity (VOSH)

At its Tuesday, March 28 meeting the Windsor Lions Club’s hosted Dr. Jerry Hardison of Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity (VOSH), who spoke about age related eye disorders. Connecticut VOSH volunteers go annually in January to San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua to conduct a free eye care clinic. More than 3000 people were served with eye examinations. Free eyeglasses, most of which had been collected by Lions Clubs, were provided to those in need. The optometrists also evaluated patients for eye disorders and diseases and provided free treatment and medication. The optometrists were assisted by optometry students from schools in Worcester, New York City and California. All told, about 35 professionals, students and other helpers were involved in the four day clinic. The clinic gives the students hands on experience in dealing with some eye disorders that they usually encounter only in textbooks. For Dr. Hardison, who is also the current president of the Greater Hartford Host Lions Club, this was his twelfth time volunteering at the clinic. Nationally, VOSH organizes similar excursions and clinics throughout the world, but Nicaragua is the site where Connecticut’s optometrists serve.

The Windsor Lions have contributed to VOSH for several years. In the photo, club president Jim Daniels presents Jerry Hardison with a donation of $500.

In keeping with its primary mission of eye care, the Windsor Lions also contribute to:

*Lions Low Vision Center

*CT Radio Information Services (CRIS Radio)

*CT State Library Services for the blind

*CT Lions Eye Research Foundation

*CT Lions Gallery of Vision Services

*FIDELCO

*The NEAT center at Oak Hill (New England Assistive Technology)

The Windsor Lions also provide eye exams and prescription glasses to Windsor residents in need, children and adults. The Windsor Lions meet on second and fourth Tuesdays at 6:30 PM at the Union Street Tavern in downtown Windsor. Everyone is welcome to attend and those interested can contact Jim Daniels (860-219-9489 or jamesadanielscpa@gmail.com).