Bringing Clearer Vision to Our Communities

“A person's vision is their window to the world,” said Dr. Brandy Scombordi-Raghu, pediatric optometrist for The Eye Institute (TEI) of Drexel University.

The community outreach team indeed had a busy summer. TEI doctors, student interns, and volunteers were out in the greater Philadelphia region providing eye care, education, and resources to those who need it most.

For the fourth year in a row, The Eye Institute’s team had the honor of examining patients at Community Volunteers in Medicine (CVIM) in West Chester, Pennsylvania. Over the course of five days, the team cared for 171 patients and prescribed 170 pairs of glasses, which covered 40% of their waitlist. The team partnered with the State Correctional Institution (SCI) at Cambridge Springs Optical Lab to custom-make eyeglasses for patients in need.

TEI also collaborated with two Drexel University clinical facilities to expand access to vision care in Philadelphia. At the Dornsife Center for Neighborhood Partnerships, the team provided care and glasses to 30 patients. At the Stephen and Sandra Sheller 11th Street Family Health Services, they cared for 31 patients. Both clinical sites are dedicated to whole-person care for neighborhood residents who are uninsured or face barriers to health care.

In August, the team visited the Red Shield Family Residence and Eliza Shirley House, which provide emergency housing for families of all configurations. Volunteers examined 10 adults and 15 children, ultimately providing 19 pairs of glasses thanks to the continued partnership with SCI Cambridge Springs. At this event, the team also collaborated with the Health Outreach Project (HOP) from Drexel University College of Medicine, a student-run initiative that brings care to underserved communities in Philadelphia and West Reading.

This summer also marked an impactful collaboration with Remote Area Medical (RAM), a nonprofit dedicated to providing free health care to underserved and rural communities across the U.S. RAM’s model allows patients to receive multiple types of care in one place, making critical services more accessible. 

Remote Area Volunteer Corps hosted a pop-up clinic at School of the Future this August. RAM provides dental, vision, medical , preventative care, and educational resources to underserved and rural communities. TEI's team were happy to volunteer at this event on two consecutive days, August 16th and 17th. Drs. Scombordi-Raghu, Helene Kaiser, Mark Shust, Elle Cornman, Nicholas Karbach, Melissa Trego, and Doctor of Optometry students from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry, Drexel University Class of 2027 examined 143 patients over the two days.

“RAM is an organization that allows people in rural areas and in underserved communities the ability to get all their health questions answered and needs met in one place,” said Dr. Scombordi-Raghu. “The volunteers truly care about each individual, which allows them to live to their fullest potential.” Partnering with RAM allowed TEI’s volunteers to help patients address eye care needs while also supporting their overall health and well-being. 

From health fairs to shelters, volunteers stepped up to care for patients, share vital information, and strengthen community health. “By ensuring every person can see to their best ability, we are unlocking their potential, improving their lives, and the community at large,” Dr. Scombordi-Raghu said. “Community outreach is just that, improving the life of one person to improve our communities.”