Nearly 400 patients were seen by American Career College optical tech students during an eyescreening event in San Bernardino this February.
Optical Technician Program Director Anthony Alaniz helped direct the 13 ACC-Ontario student volunteers as they adjusted, fitted, cleaned and inspected more than 350 pairs of donated eyeglasses that were distributed by the California Lion's Club "Friends in Sight" program.
Alaniz, a former ACC-Orange County optical tech student himself, said the students got hands-on practice with skills they will need every day when working in the field. Some of the donated eyeglasses had to be adjusted for comfort and fit, Alaniz said, which requires using specialized tools the students are provided.
"They're still raving about how much fun they had and how much they learned," Alaniz said. "They're already eager to help out at the next one."
Of the 399 patients, 369 received eyeglasses the same day. Ten patients with special perscriptions were sent to the optical lab for fabrication; 18 others were referred for futher medical treatment.
Assemblymember Cheryl R. Brown (D-San Bernardino) also stopped by during the event, held at the First Presbyterian Church in San Bernardino, to lend her support.
The California Lions "Friends in Sight" program holds more than 20 events a year, typically in southern California and northern Mexico. Last fiscal year, they saw more than 12,000 patients and dispensed nearly 11,000 pairs of recycled eyeglasses. ACC-Ontario previously has hosted "Friends in Sight" events on campus, while also providing dental X-rays, blood pressure tests and additional services.
