In order to provide this service, the Opticianry program had to obtain frames, lenses and improved equipment. Metten met with Elizabeth Littlefield, vice president for Institutional Advancement, and representatives with the Richmond Eye and Ear Foundation Fund to see if there was an interest in funding this initiative. The Richmond Eye and Ear Foundation Fund, a component fund of The Community Foundation Serving Richmond and Central Virginia, awarded $37,600 to the Opticianry Program on April 2, 2012. Funds from this grant were used to purchase lenses and frames for JSRCC Middle College students and to purchase a lens edger which helps Opticianry students fabricate lenses in less time.
On April 23, a Vision Fair was held exclusively for Middle College students. Under the watchful eye of Dr. Kauffman, Opticianry students provided preliminary exams for nearly 25 Middle College clients. Specifically, they conducted tests for color blindness and provided keratometry and slit lamp evaluations. They also worked directly with the clients in the selection and fitting of eyewear.
"Improving a student’s ability to see will have a tremendous impact on his or her ability to be successful not only in their college program but also in their occupation," said Washko.
The Middle College is a college entry program for individuals between the ages of 18-24 who have not completed their high school education but have the goal of attending college. The program includes GED preparation and college level preparation for employment coursework to help students pursue their goal of a college education. There is no cost to the student to participate in this program.
