OLSHF 2025
Holiday Appeal
Dear Friends of OLSHF,
As the holiday season invites us to reflect with gratitude, we are reminded of the extraordinary impact made possible by you, our donors, partners, and Lions family across MD36. This year has been historic for the Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation (OLSHF), marked by an achievement that speaks to the strength of service, the generosity of community, and an unwavering belief in our mission.
One of the most meaningful moments of the year was the celebration of our 2 millionth student vision screening. Jeremiah, a student at MITCH Charter School in Tualatin, marked this milestone alongside School Vision Screening (SVS) staff and dedicated volunteers. Since its beginnings in 1994, the SVS program has grown into the largest of its kind in the nation and now reaches nearly 200,000 Oregon students every year. With 18% of screened students referred for follow-up care, SVS uncovers vision issues that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Kennedy is one of those students. Screened in kindergarten, her referral led to the early diagnosis of a rare degenerative eye condition. This year, with support from OLSHF’s Low Vision Clinic (LVC) programs, she received specialized glasses that immediately improved her daily life at school and in sports. Her story is a powerful reminder that this milestone represents far more than a number, it represents hope, opportunity, and a clearer future for children across Oregon.
This impact is possible because of YOUR support. Thousands of families received critical sight and hearing care this year. Thousands MORE Oregonians will reach out to OLSHF for care. YOU can help us say YES more often by supporting our cause! Volunteers across the state invested their time and care, and every district and partner contributed to our shared success. Whether you organized a screening, transported equipment, supported an event, donated, or encouraged others to get involved, we are deeply thankful.
The year ahead holds even greater promise. In 2026, we will serve more than 200,000 students throughout Oregon and launch our new five-year strategic plan. This next chapter will expand our impact, strengthen operations and partnerships, and ensure greater access and equity in sight and hearing services.
Our shared belief, that sight and hearing are essential to learning, independence, and opportunity, continues to guide every decision we make.
Every contribution, large or small, makes a meaningful difference and helps change lives through sight and hearing.
To every Lion, volunteer, donor, school staff member, trustee, and friend: thank you for making this year extraordinary. With your continued support, we will carry this spirit of service into the new year and continue transforming lives together.
With gratitude and warm wishes for the holidays,
Doug Thompson, Chief Executive Officer
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