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GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.—The 33rd Annual Grand Rapids Ophthalmology Drive for Vision charity golf outing, held on Sept. 21, raised more than $25,000 this year despite the challenges of the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak across the Midwest, according to a recent announcement. The event had been scheduled for June, but had to be postponed due to the restrictions in place for coronavirus control. Grand Rapids Ophthalmology, the largest fully integrated eyecare medical group in West Michigan, is a member of the Blue Sky Vision management organization.

This year was a uniquely challenging year, especially with charitable organizations in greater need of support, the ophthalmology practice noted in its announcement. With limited golfers because of the pandemic, Drive for Vision raised more than $25,000 for local community members whose lives are improved by the services of the Association for the Blind & Visually Impaired and the Grand Rapids Lions Club Vision Clinic at Cherry Health.

Over the past 33 years, more than $800,000 has been raised by the golf outing.

“We are grateful this event was able to proceed and thankful to all who have contributed to the success of the event over the years,” said Dan Shoemaker, president of Blue Sky Vision. The company was created in early 2017 through a partnership between Grand Rapids Ophthalmology and private equity firm Sterling Partners, according to the announcement.

“Generous vendor and private support has provided assistance for thousands of people in our local community challenged by vision loss,” he added. “Eye health is our passion and this event is an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for local, non-profit vision related organizations.”

Each year, the Association for the Blind & Visually Impaired helps more than 1,000 family members, friends, and neighbors who experience blindness, or severe vision loss, live more independently. Additionally, to help reduce preventable blindness, the Grand Rapids Lions Club Vision Clinic at Cherry Health provides eyecare and glasses to more than 12,000 fathers, mothers, sons, and daughters.

“On behalf of the Grand Rapids Lions Club, we deeply value the success derived from our longstanding partnership with Grand Rapids Ophthalmology and now Blue Sky Vision,” said Kyle Travis, Grand Rapids Lions Club board member and chairman of Drive for Vision. “We’re looking forward to the 34th annual Drive for Vision outing, which will take place at Quail Ridge golf course on June 21, 2021.”