11/22/2025
Glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy are two of the leading causes of preventable vision loss in our community — yet many residents are unaware they have these conditions until the damage is already advanced. In underserved neighborhoods, limited access to routine eye exams, unmanaged diabetes, and gaps in healthcare education make these diseases even more devastating.
Glaucoma, often called the “silent thief of sight,” causes gradual optic nerve damage with no early symptoms. Without regular screenings, many individuals do not discover they have glaucoma until permanent vision loss has occurred. Our community experiences higher rates of glaucoma, especially among African American and older adult populations, due to genetic risk, delayed care, and lack of awareness.
Diabetic retinopathy is a serious eye disease caused by uncontrolled diabetes. With diabetes disproportionately affecting minority and low-income communities, diabetic retinopathy has become a rising threat. It can lead to blurred vision, bleeding in the eye, and even blindness — yet early detection and treatment can significantly reduce the risk.
Both conditions are preventable and treatable when caught early, but too many residents do not receive annual eye exams or access to affordable vision care. As a result, preventable blindness continues to impact families, employment, education, and overall quality of life.
Our mission is to break this cycle by bringing education, screenings, early detection, and accessible eye-care services directly to the neighborhoods that need them most. By increasing awareness and improving access, we can save sight, reduce health disparities, and build a healthier, better-informed community.
