The global partnership of Special Olympics and Lions Club International begins with the dedication that both organizations have to helping people, who may not have the available services, to see better.  Through this jointly funded and volunteer-driven program, Special Olympics athletes receive:

• Extensive vision and eye health tests;
• Refraction for those requiring further screening;
• Prescription eye glasses, if needed;
• Prescription protective sports eye wear, if appropriate; and
• Referral advice for follow-up care.

In 1991, Special Olympics established Special Olympics Opening Eyes.  Opening Eyes and Special Smiles jointly formed the basis for the Special Olympics Healthy Athletes initiative in 1996.

Our Clinical Director is Steven Hitzeman, OD from the Indiana University School of Optometry.

If you are interested in helping at a Opening Eyes vision screening, please contact Pam Eakin at (800) 742-0612 ext. 232 or by email.