Current Student News
Optometry
General News
Do you want to help economically disadvantaged children who need comprehensive vision care and eyeglasses in the Greater Philadelphia region? Then the 18th annual Looking Out for Kids (LOFK) charity fundraiser is just the place to make a difference.
The initiative was first established in 2007 by Susan Oleszewski, OD ‘76, Resident ‘78, FAAO, at The Eye Institute (TEI), which is the clinical facility of the Pennsylvania College of Optometry (PCO) at Drexel University. This year’s event is being held on Saturday, Nov. 14, back where it all began - at the Hafter Student Community Center, 50 Breyer Drive, in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania.
The growth and evolution of the “Looking Out for Kids” charity has made a difference. The successful delivery of comprehensive pediatric vision care after a child has failed a vision screening has been a long-standing challenge. The Looking Out for Kids charity has been able to take on that challenge by rendering care at the child’s school or by transporting the children to the University’s clinical facilities.
“For these children, a vision examination and a pair of eyeglasses can mean much more than simply better eyesight. It can mean being able to do their schoolwork, participate in the classroom, and have a better opportunity to succeed,” said Dr. Oleszewski.
Every dollar raised at the event goes directly to providing comprehensive eye care and glasses to the most vulnerable kids in the region.
“The impact of LOFK on thousands of children each academic year is impactful and meaningful to their educational progress and ultimately their future,” she said. “As so many have said, it takes a village. The program has been successful because of the doctors, staff, and interns who render the care. But their work is made possible through the generosity of benefactors who believe in the importance of the LOFK mission. We are so grateful for the many LOFK friends who have supported us for the last 20 years.”
Given the financial challenges facing Drexel - and by extension, the Looking Out for Kids Charity - it is more important than ever for friends of LOFK to help sustain this program. The reality is that LOFK cannot continue its work without the generosity of people who believe in its mission.
You can support the effort by attending the event – click here to buy tickets – or by clicking here to make a donation. Gifts of all sizes bring us closer to a world where every child can see and hear clearly and thrive.
To learn more, or to become involved in LOFK, call 215.895.1929 or email LookingOutforKids@drexel.edu.
