Boys & Girls Clubs of America Partnership Update
When Did It All Start?
Last fall, National Vision entered into a multi-year partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA). The partnership, announced at the 20th Vendor Conference, provides funding, free vision screenings, access to free comprehensive eye exams, and if needed, glasses for Club members through our participating America’s Best Contacts & Eyeglasses locations.
The partnership also launches a new program for BGCA as part of their preventive care and wellness initiative, which encourages youth to develop healthy habits as well as learn how to make positive choices and take personal responsibility for their actions.
In addition to its eye care and eyewear commitment, National Vision will also contribute $1 million annually to BGCA in support of its mission to enable all young people, especially those who need it most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. This investment and commitment supports BGCA’s healthy lifestyles pillar, which seeks to build a healthier generation where young people can thrive.
What’s Happening?
A lot! Since we formalized our partnership last fall, National Vision has been working closely with BGCA to prepare for national execution of the partnership, set for fall of 2016.
We have conducted two “test” screening events – helping 116 kids – at the A.W. “Tony” Matthews Club just outside Atlanta, to familiarize BGCA teams with the vision screening and exam referral process and develop a protocol that can be rolled out to other Clubs.
The most recent test screening event took place on March 10th. Ten associates from the Retail Support Center volunteered their time and helped screen 70 kids!
What Happens Next?
Tomorrow, National Vision and the Boys & Girls Clubs will hold a special event for all the children referred for an eye exam at one of our participating America’s Best Contacts & Eyeglasses. All of the children who needed glasses will receive their frames during this event and opticians will be available to help adjust frames and share proper frame and lens care. We’ll be sure to share pictures and stories.
National Vision will roll out this screening and glasses delivery program among 25 pre-selected BGCA Clubs across the country this month. Based on this pilot rollout, National Vision will work with BGCA to prepare for a nationwide program rollout in fall 2016.
For more information about our work with Boys & Girls Clubs, please visit www.nationalvision.com/BGCA.
Jessica Altamirano
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