Ophthalmology Times: Alcon Children’s Vision Center Receives Prestigious Vision Award

Celebrating Children's Vision and Eye Health

The Alcon Children’s Vision Center (ACVC) is the esteemed recipient of the 10th Annual Bonnie Strickland Champion for Children’s Vision Award from the National Center for Children’s Vision and Eye Health (NCCVEH) at Prevent Blindness. The award will be presented on October 24, 2024, during a special program celebrating the 15th Anniversary of the NCCVEH.

According to Jeff Todd, president and CEO of Prevent Blindness, providing children with the needed eyecare significantly enhances their chances for academic success and fosters long-term healthy vision. Todd stated, “We congratulate the Alcon Children’s Vision Center on their receipt of the award and appreciate their commendable efforts in prioritizing children’s vision in their community.”

A Legacy of Impact

The Bonnie Strickland Champion for Children’s Vision Award acknowledges significant contributions by individuals or groups towards public health practices that promote children’s vision and eye health. Established in 2014 by the NCCVEH, the award honors Bonnie Strickland, former Director of the Division of Services for Children with Special Health Needs, for her invaluable role in establishing an inclusive system for children's vision in the U.S.

• ACVC's representatives Jennifer Deakins OD, FAAO, and Richard E Weisbarth, OD, FAAO, will accept the award.
• The center operates in partnership with the Alcon Foundation and Fort Worth ISD as a nonprofit 501c3 organization.
• It aims to provide essential vision and eye health services specifically to local students.

Comprehensive Eye Health Initiatives

The ACVC collaborates with Fort Worth School District teachers and families to promote the importance of eye health and its impact on overall student wellbeing and academic performance. In its first operational year, ACVC screened 32,000 students and referred over 20% for eye care.

1. All pre-K to 5th-grade children undergo acuity screenings within the initial 45 days of school.
2. Volunteers from Alcon, certified through the Prevent Blindness Children’s Vision Screening Certification Program, conduct these screenings.
3. Free comprehensive eye exams and glasses are provided to students who need them.

By aiming to broaden its outreach, ACVC plans to serve all Title 1 schools within Fort Worth ISD, ensuring equitable access to vision care for students from federally qualified low-income households.