You know, there are various ways to dramatically impact the lives of others by augmenting or reviving their vision. And, although it may be life-changing for others, it is easy to do. Here are some options for you:

Donate your old used eyeglasses. Although used eyeglasses cannot be reused in the United States, they are welcomed elsewhere. Lions Clubs across Wisconsin collect used eyeglasses and clean and sort them at the Lions’ camp for the visually impaired at Rosholt. Then they are shipped to Lions Clubs throughout the world, where they will be distributed to those in need. Many optometrists have Lions collection boxes in their clinics. You can also drop them off at Madison Chiropractic on North Sherman Avenue.

Be an organ donor. Chances are when you leave this life, you will not need your eyes. The corneas from your eyes can be transplanted and provide sight for the blind. Google Lions Eye Bank of Wisconsin for more information. To register as a donor, log onto “Wisconsin Donor Registry” and sign up. I recommend you discuss your decision with your family so they are aware of your wishes. They may want to register as well.

Become a Lion. Lions Clubs have fought blindness and supported the visually impaired since 1925, when Helen Keller challenged the newly formed Lions Club to be “knights of the blind.” Today, Lions International is the largest service club in the world with the strength of 1.4 million dedicated men and women in 46,000 clubs in 190 countries. Check us out at madisoncentrallions.org or email us at info@madisoncentrallions.org. You, too, can make a difference.