NEW YORK—New York’s Hard Rock Café, a favorite destination of rock and roll fans the world over, will again host Rockin’ for New Eyes, the annual fundraiser for New Eyes for the Needy. This year’s show, scheduled for St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, is expected to sell out, according to show organizers, who aim to top last year’s fundraising record of $205,000. The funds are raised through company donations and tickets sales and proceeds are donated to New Eyes for the Needy, which provides eyeglasses for needy people throughout many parts of the world.

“Rockin’ for New Eyes is just not another fundraiser for us,” said Jean Gajano, executive director of New Eyes for the Needy. “It’s become an outpouring of support from the optical industry—companies, performers and attendees—all who understand the importance of clear vision and want to make a difference. We are deeply grateful that the industry has not only embraced this event but also embraced our mission to change lives through the simple yet critical tool of eyeglasses. With their support, we’ve been able to help thousands and thousands of U.S. residents in need who would otherwise go without eyeglasses and the clear vision they provide.”

As in prior years, all the performers are optical industry volunteers. Many are “weekend warriors” who have years of music experience gained from performing in local bands, and some have even toured professionally. All are excited to be performing at the Hard Rock, a legendary theater once known as the Paramount which hosted the world premiere of Elvis Presley’s first movie, “Love Me Tender” and where Buddy Holly & The Crickets performed "Peggy Sue.”

“This year’s show is shaping up to be even more spectacular than last,” said Craig Sasson, a professional musician who serves as producer. “After all, it's on Saint Patty's day in NYC. The performers are all such professionals and the set lists are sure to bring down the house.”

Support from sponsors is growing, said Denise Mogil, U.S. optical director of professional services for Costco Wholesale, who heads the fundraising effort. Mogil is encouraging other sponsors to support the show, with the goal of collecting $215,000 for New Eyes for the Needy. She said interested sponsors can contact her at denisemogilneweyes@gmail.com.

To date, the show sponsors are:

Premier Diamond Sponsor
National Vision Inc.

Platinum Sponsor
Jobson Optical Group
Transitions

Gold Sponsors

Davis Vision
Marcolin Eyewear
The Vision Council/Reed Exhibitions

Silver Sponsors

Avesis
Aerial Vision
Charmant USA Inc.
Classique Eyewear
ClearVision Optical
Corporate Optometry On Facebook
Costco Optical
De Rigo REM
Essilor USA
Eyewear by R.O.I.
Eyewear Designs Ltd
FGX International
Inspecs
Kenmark Eyewear
Marco
The McGee Group
MCQ LLC
Nouveau Eyewear
UnitedHealthcare Vision
Zyloware

Bronze Sponsor

Hilco

Rockin’ for New Eyes will take place at the Hard Rock Café in Times Square on March 17 from 8:30 pm to 12:30 am. VIP and General Admission tickets are available at https://www.shopneweyes.org/rfne-tickets-2018. General admission tickets will be available at the door at Hard Rock Café, located at Broadway and 43rd St.