Nearly 1 in 10 children between the ages of 3 and 5 have a vision problem. In Oregon, an estimated 12,000 children under the age of 10 have amblyopia ("lazy eye"). As with many other eye diseases, early detection and treatment of amblyopia can prevent or reduce the chance of permanently impaired vision. Ideally, all children should be screened for amblyopia before age 5 and have their eyes checked regularly by a primary care provider.

In Oregon, it is mandatory for school districts to provide vision screening for school-aged children. However, the state does not fund this program, and budget cuts mean many schools lack the necessary equipment and knowledge to conduct quality screenings. Thanks to grants from the Oregon State Elks Association, the Elks Children’s Eye Clinic has developed a vision screening program to address this need. We provide vision screening kits and training for staff in both schools and Head Start programs that includes instruction in the latest, scientifically tested screening methods. Elks volunteers across the state are also volunteering their time to assist with screenings.