ONLINE: World Sight Day

press release: Combat Blindness International (CBI), a leading global eye health organization, is pleased to invite the general public — especially those who want to make a difference in the world — to its 2021 World Sight Day virtual event, at 6:30-7:15 p.m. CDT, on Thursday, October 14, 2021. Attendees can register in advance, and watch the live program on October 14th, at combatblindness.org/world-sight-day.

This fast-paced, informative and fun celebration will feature CBI’s impact, including news about the exciting new Aadya Initiative promoting eye care and women’s empowerment.

“We also are honored to have the renowned global health thought leader and change maker, Kovin Naidoo, share his valuable insights on the future of fighting blindness worldwide,” says Reena Chandra Rajpal, executive director and president of Combat Blindness International.

Kovin is the vice president of social impact at Essilor, a world leader in ophthalmic products. During the program, he will focus on the growing global eye health crisis, and how organizations like CBI play a decisive role in eliminating preventable blindness globally.

“It is a time when society needs to step up wherever we can,” Kovin says. “Supporting the efforts of CBI, for example, we can actually make a big difference.”

World Sight Day is an annual day of awareness to focus global attention on blindness and vision impairment. To increase support for its highly cost-effective cataract, pediatric and women’s empowerment programs, CBI will hold a virtual silent auction, featuring unique handcrafts, experiences and more.

Bid on incredible getaways, enriching experiences, global handcrafts and more. Browse items here, Thursday, October 7, through Thursday, October 14, 2021, on Handbid, our mobile auction platform. Register on your computer or download the Handbid app and follow the registration instructions.

Additionally, CBI hopes to reach a $50,000 fundraising goal, including a generous matching gift made possible by Diane Ballweg, a longtime CBI supporter and community leader from Madison, Wis. “We are deeply grateful to Diane, whose generosity has had a decisive and transformative impact on our mission,” says Reena. “Her strong support has given sight to thousands and has empowered women with technical training and employment through the Certified Ophthalmic Paramedic Program. Her kindness and compassion have touched so many lives.”

Visit combatblindness.org/world-sight-day for more details. Additionally, explore combatblindness.org to learn more, donate or volunteer to help give sight to others in need.