CLB’s Mobile Eye Care team, attended a health and wellness event at St. John’s Baptist Church in Arlington, Virginia; at this event, which occurred on Saturday, July 19, the team conducted 19 eye screenings and eye pressure screenings.
Of those patients served, six referrals were directed to CLB’s Low Vision Clinic for future low vision exams in CLB’s Silver Spring office.
Words of gratitude and a hopeful return next year were abounding from St. John’s Baptist Church.
“The Health & Wellness Ministry of St John’s Baptist Church in Arlington, Virginia is pleased that we could partner with you to encourage and educate people on the importance of eye health. What a blessing Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind was for us on Saturday, July 19, 2025. You and your staff were so personable, professional and efficient as you provided eye screening and education to our population. Your service was beneficial to everyone, especially the (5) who were referred for additional testing. We certainly did not want anyone to be in need of care; however, we are pleased Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind identified the problem and provided the needed referral assistance. Our Pastor Bill Burrell was delighted to meet you all and grateful for your time, on a hot Saturday in July. We were honored that you stayed to share in St John’s Annual Picnic. I promised you all lunch and we hope you also enjoyed the fellowship. Your presence in the Arlington, Virginia community is invaluable. Prayerfully, we will see you next year.”
Marcia Taylor, Assistant, Health & Wellness Ministry, St John’s Baptist Church expressed on behalf of the church and community.
CLB team members shared their perspectives on the services rendered and benefits of community engagement. Kathy Gross, Assistant Manager of Low Vision Services, remarked that,
“Preventive is Key. We enjoy giving back to our communities in the DMV area by providing mobile eye screenings and eye exams. These annual screenings help with preventative care and early detection.”
Additionally, CLB’s Information and Referral Specialist, Chrichelle Brown stated that “someone’s yesterday can help someone’s tomorrow.”
Chrichelle continued by stating that,
“We strive to help others by offering services, not just to help with training but with eye care as well. These services help build confidence in the consumers that we serve. Consumers who have received services from us spread the word to others they have met who could benefit from our services as well, paying it forward.”
