Vision is fundamental to how we experience the world – and we believe everyone should have access to the eye care they need to be well and thrive, regardless of their circumstances.
80% to 90% of blindness is preventable through education and access to medical care. That’s why LifeSight partners with ophthalmologists, optometrists, and community organizations to provide no-cost eye care, vision-related outreach, and educational programs. We also foster research to expand knowledge about eye and vision health and improve access to sight-saving care for all in our region.
We bring KidsFIRST Free Vision Screenings to area schools and childcare centers to identify undetected childhood vision disorders early – before they impact learning and development.
Through our Gift of Sight and VisionCARE programs, we provide life-changing surgeries and no-cost eye exams and glasses for underserved adults experiencing vision loss.
We support the next generation of eye care professionals by presenting an annual endowed scholarship at the University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, the Dr. Paul L. Zimmerman Memorial Scholarship, to students pursuing ophthalmology, and through this relationship, partner with medical students to conduct vision-related research and outreach.
to combat undetected vision issues in children and ensure healthy eyes and bright futures.
were referred to eye doctors for comprehensive care after KidsFIRST Free Vision Screenings identified potential vision issues.
sight-saving
surgeries
helping underserved adults with severely impaired eyesight regain their vision, independence, and livelihood through the Gift of Sight.
no-cost
eye exams
provided to underserved adults, restoring their ability to work efficiently, travel safely, and care for themselves and their family.
scholarships
awarded to future ophthalmologists through the Dr. Paul L. Zimmerman Memorial Scholarship to ensure access to quality eye care across the region for future generations.
Published research studies
on children’s vision and South Dakotans’ eye care needs in medical journals such as Ophthalmic Epidemiology, South Dakota Medicine, and Aesculapius Journal.