CHICAGO—Today, Prevent Blindness launched its new, bold campaign—See America’s Hidden Gems— as part of an effort to celebrate life’s little joys, make eye health a priority from coast-to-coast, and increase awareness of the diseases and conditions that can cause preventable blindness, according to an announcement from the organization. Prevent Blindness is putting forth See America’s Hidden Gems—encouraging individuals throughout the country to celebrate the people, places, and things that they marvel at each day, to recognize and appreciate their gift of sight, and to prioritize proactive eyecare. Consumers are invited to post a photo of what is most important to them on the website www.see-america.org or post on social media using #EyeSeeAmerica.

Showcasing these gems on an interactive map on the program’s website, people can travel coast-to-coast through photos. Visitors can read up on eye health, learn more about the Prevent Blindness mission, join in on social media, and donate.

Vision plays a direct role in a child’s development, learning readiness, and future graduation rates, the organization said. Healthy vision also supports an adult’s ability to be productive and a senior’s ability to live independently. According to the recent Prevent Blindness study, “The Future of Vision, Forecasting the Prevalence and Costs of Vision Problems,” vision impairment and blindness in the U.S. is projected to grow by approximately 150 percent by 2050, while the population with glaucoma and AMD will double from 2010 to 2050.

“When you learn how many people are affected by vision loss from preventable causes, you can’t help but want to get involved and evoke change,” said Jeff Todd, president and CEO at Prevent Blindness. “We hope that through this fun, interactive program, we can inspire everyone to take a moment to appreciate all that healthy vision adds to our quality of life and make a commitment to take care of their eyes today to protect vision for tomorrow.”

McCann Health, part of McCann Worldgroup and the Interpublic Group (NYSE: IPG), is supporting Prevent Blindness through the See America program, bringing together a passion for making vision care more accessible and an unwavering commitment to the future of America’s eyesight. McCann Health and Prevent Blindness are providing individuals with the tools and knowledge they need to protect their sight for a lifetime.

To learn more about the initiative, submit a gem of your own, and prioritize your vision, visit www.See-America.org.