Latest News EyeRock Welcomes Optometry Student Support for Spring Fundraiser By Staff Monday, February 8, 2016 12:24 AM NEW YORK—While much of the country is battling winter weather, organizers of the EyeRock concert are busy preparing for the popular spring fundraiser.Sponsors have already begun lining up in support of the April 16 event, which will again benefit New Eyes for the Needy. Show organizers report that many of the optical industry singers and musicians who have performed at past EyeRock shows will return this year, along with some newly discovered talent. Included among the performers will be optometry students who, like the other EyeRock band members, are donating their talent to help New Eyes raise money to provide new prescription eyeglasses to children and adults in financial need living in the U.S.EyeRock is also inviting optometry students to participate in a program funded by its lead sponsor, National Vision, Inc. (NVI) and organized by International Vision Expo. Optometry students who attend International Vision Expo’s Student Education Session, arranged by the cooperative efforts of the New York State Optometric Association and the Career Development Center of SUNY (State University of New York’s College of Optometry), will be able to attend the EyeRock show for free and cheer on their classmates as they rock the stage. Bob Stein, NVI’s chief philanthropic and managed care development officer, said he expects over 300 optometry students will attend EyeRock this year as guests of the company. “National Vision is the primary sponsor of EyeRock again this year, and looks forward to a fun evening of friendship, optical camaraderie, and rock and roll,” Stein told VMail. “This event is made all the more rewarding as it is for the benefit of New Eyes For The Needy, and generates donations that translate to thousands of the optically underserved receiving eyecare and eyewear. Having the optometry student on both the stage and in the audience reflects well on the continuing fun and giving nature of our industry.”Kristen Reynolds, professional relations manager, The Vision Council, which co-organizes International Vision Expo with Reed Exhibitions added, “National Vision’s generosity in hosting the students to attend EyeRock allows students to experience how our industry comes together for the greater good. It is an amazing opportunity that allows them to network with other students and industry professionals while raising money and awareness for a good cause.”The EyeRock sponsors to date are Charmant USA, Davis, Essilor/KBco, Eyewear by R.O.I., iCoat, Marco, Marcolin, McGee, MCQ, Modo, National Vision, Nouveau Eyewear, Spectera and Transitions Optical.“We are so thankful to our sponsors, many coming back for a third year, who make this event possible,” said Jean Gajano, executive director, New Eyes for the Needy. “Their support has allowed New Eyes to help thousands in need in the U.S. get the clear vision necessary to build better lives. We encourage other companies in the optical industry to join us at EyeRock 2016 for the philanthropy and the fun.”For information about how to become an EyeRock sponsor, click here.EyeRock will take place at the Hard Rock Café in Times Square on Saturday, April 16, from 8:30 pm to 12:30 am. Individual tickets will be available for purchase from the New Eyes homepage, www.new-eyes.org, starting March 15.