TARA FOUNDATION
FREE EYE SCREENING
Stories bring facts to life, make the abstract concrete and, through meaning making, walk the listener through the mind of the scientist or mathematician (Ellis, 2005) to understand the value and application of such concepts. Wells (1986) argued that storytelling is a fundamental approach of meaning making. Community participation helps youth become empathetic citizens who could potentially continue similar work when they become adults. Additionally, youth who give back to their communities develop leadership skills, learn the importance of helping, and gain work experiences.
Benefits of storytelling in early childhood education includes :
- Improved language skills
- Heightened memory
- Fosters imaginative, creative thinking and cognitive skills. …
- Encourages enthusiasm for learning, writing and reading. …
- Develops cultural and moral understanding.
- Better communication skills
- Increases curiosity and imagination. …
- Emphasizes focus and social skills.
In a heart-warming and visionary collaboration, Rainbow Bridge, a prominent community outreach organization, and the TARA Foundation, dedicated to promoting health and well-being, joined hands with enthusiastic volunteers from the International Medical University (IMU) to bring the gift of clear vision to those in need. The collaboration culminated in their first free eye screening session, aiming to make a positive impact on the lives of many. The primary objective was to identify individuals with visual impairments and eye-related issues, paving the way for early intervention and treatment. Each participant underwent a comprehensive eye examination, including vision tests, assessment of eye health, and refraction tests.
For those individuals identified with eye problems during the first screening, the next crucial step was to ensure they receive the necessary care. The collaboration partners ensured that each affected individual was referred to the nearest optometrist or ophthalmologist for a follow-up eye screening session. This second screening aimed to diagnose the specific issue and determine the most appropriate course of action for treatment. Rainbow Bridge took the noble step of providing free spectacles to those who required corrective eyewear. By ensuring that the underserved members of the community have access to prescription eyeglasses, they are not only addressing vision problems but also enhancing the quality of life for these individuals.
In summary, the collaboration between Rainbow Bridge, the TARA Foundation, and the International Medical University students as volunteers has brought hope and clear vision to those who need it the most. The free eye screening event stands as a testament to the power of community collaboration, humanitarianism, and the willingness of passionate individuals to make a positive change in the world.