The main goal of Bruin Vision Project is to serve the underserved people of Los Angeles who do not have access to receiving proper care by providing vision screenings at health fairs. Due to the pandemic we have transitioned our focus to educational outreach where members conduct informational presentations to students and adults in the community via zoom. Members create educational presentations related to vision care under the guidance of a board member and present these at virtual health fairs. Overall, educating underserved communities on vision care and providing eye-related services is the overarching goal of Bruin Vision Project.
Time Commitment: 1-2 hours
Organization Size: Around 40 members
Members are able to contribute their time volunteering at health fairs in order to promote visual acuity to underserved communities. As we progress towards in-person learning, members will be able to volunteer as Stein Eye Institute Affiliates to help perform visual acuity diagnostics at health fairs. Through our one-to-one mentorship component, members will also be able to receive and provide guidance and support to a fellow peer. Each quarter we host a OD/MD panel where students are able to ask questions and learn more about the process of graduate school and aspects of that specific career path. Members are expected to attend at least 2 general meetings and at least 1 health fair per quarter to maintain active membership.
Bruin Vision Project is different from other pre-health organizations because of its abundant opportunities to gain insights into many aspects of the healthcare industry. From moderated panel discussions, to volunteering at health fairs, Bruin Vision Project connects its members with the resources and experiences necessary to succeed in their professional careers. Additionally, Bruin Vision Project constantly implements new projects that go beyond these activities. These projects, such as mentorship programs and educational outreach programs, also provide opportunities to get closer to other members and foster important leadership qualities.
General meetings are on even weeks on Tuesday throughout the academic year. At the start of each meeting there are icebreaker activities so general members can get to know each other better. There’s also different activities for members to participate in at each meeting whether it’s a social event, mentorship event, or educational outreach opportunities. During our meetings members also have the opportunity to hear the experiences of doctors and students currently in optometry or medical school by attending our quarterly MD/OD panels. During general meetings we also discuss future health fairs members can volunteer at and how to become a Jules Stein Eye Institute Affiliate so members can eventually volunteer and provide visual screenings to the communities in the Los Angeles area.