Volunteering With a Vision: Shaping a Brighter Future Through Purposeful Service

“Volunteerism is the voice of the people put into action. These actions shape and mold the present into a future of which we can all be proud.” – Helen Dyer

Volunteering is not just about giving back; it’s about shaping a brighter future through service. This starts at the top with those of us in leadership positions.

I wholeheartedly believe in the importance of sharing one’s blessings with others and promoting causes that are close to my heart, such as advancing the optical industry, empowering female leaders, and fostering a sense of unity within the MyEyeDr. family. 

Paying It Forward

With over 20 years of leadership experience, I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support, dedication, and mentorship of those who have guided me on my journey. Because of them, I am now in a position to actively give back to organizations who play important roles in supporting vision awareness, such as the Optical Women’s Association (OWA), Prevent Blindness, and The Vision Council. 

Through my work with these organizations, I am able to raise awareness about vision health while collaborating with industry leaders to make a lasting impact. I am honored to partner with those that share my sentiments and work to shape the future of eye care. 

In addition to the work I do to promote vision health, I also have a passion to help empower women to be entrepreneurs and take control of their futures. My induction into High Point University’s Strickland Women's Leadership Council in 2022 was perhaps my most impactful moment on my journey to amplify female leaders. I’m not only able to  give back to the alma mater of my youngest son, but I am able to promote the development of bright, determined women as a co-chair of this council.

I truly believe that if we pay our energy and positive thoughts forward, we create a chain reaction of good that can stretch far beyond our own personal reach.

Generosity is Contagious 

With over 7,000 employees across more than 850 locations and our corporate office, we believe that creating a positive company culture goes beyond our day-to-day operations. It's about fostering a sense of purpose and shared values that extend beyond our professional services.

In 2020, when we faced unprecedented challenges and realized that nothing is guaranteed, it became clear that we had to take action in order to help our employees that were struggling. The leadership team at MyEyeDr. came together to figure out how we could give back to those who help our patients every day. That's when the OneFamily Community Fund was born. Our mission was to support our employees during difficult times and meet their needs that couldn't be fulfilled through conventional methods. We wanted to help each other and create a community where everyone feels supported, even during the most challenging days.

To help showcase the active involvement of our team in various volunteering initiatives, we coined the hashtag #lifeatmyeyedr. Whether it’s supporting local charities, vision walks, or providing free eye exams, our team’s continued generosity and enthusiasm fills me with immense pride. By giving our time and building a volunteer-oriented company culture, we reinforce our love for our community and our patients all around the United States. 

Creating a Lasting Impact

Volunteering with a vision means not only making a difference but also inspiring others to join the cause. It's about instilling a sense of purpose, empowering individuals, and creating a lasting impact. Through purposeful service, we shape a brighter future - one where every individual has access to quality eye care, where women in leadership thrive, and where our communities are strengthened.

I encourage each of you to find causes close to your heart, to lend a helping hand, and to make a meaningful impact. Together, we can create a world where compassion and service lead the way.