For 75 years, the Oregon State Elks Association has been a beacon of hope for children's eye health in Oregon. What began in 1949 with a $2,000 donation has blossomed into a decades-long partnership with the Oregon Elks Children’s Eye Clinic, a division of OHSU Casey Eye Institute, that has transformed pediatric ophthalmology in the state.
From the early days of supporting research into retinopathy of prematurity to the creation of the nation's first freestanding children's eye clinic, the Elks have been there every step of the way. Their unwavering commitment has funded groundbreaking research, state-of-the-art equipment, and innovative programs like the Elks Preschool Vision Screening initiative, which screens thousands of children annually.
“We are proud of our association with the Casey Eye Institute and now the Oregon Elks Children's Eye Clinic,” says Lanny Schulze, President of the Elks Youth Eye Service. “We are honored to continue the legacy that started with Oregon City Lodge member Judge Robert Mulvey, and proud of our accomplishments over these 75 years."
The Elks' impact extends far beyond financial support. Their members have volunteered countless hours and crafted hundreds of comforting quilts for young patients. They were also instrumental in Casey Eye Institute’s ability to expand care to more children with a new clinic in Bend, Ore., in 2023.
In 2020, the Elks' partnership reached new heights with the opening of the Oregon Elks Children's Eye Clinic. This state-of-the-art facility was made possible by a $20 million pledge from the Elks, and houses many important programs and clinics.
“The Oregon State Elks Association’s support has enabled us to push the boundaries of pediatric eye and vision care,” says Dr. Andreas Lauer, Margaret Thiele-Petti and August Petti Endowed Chair and director of the Casey Eye Institute. “This partnership is not just about funding; it's about a shared vision of ensuring every child in Oregon has access to world-class eye care.”
The Oregon State Elks Association's generosity and steadfast dedication to children's eye health has built an enduring legacy. Together, we continue to pioneer advancements in pediatric ophthalmology, improving lives across Oregon and beyond.
Honoring long-time liaison and program director Joannah Vaughan
As we celebrate the Oregon State Elks Association’s 75 years of giving to support children’s eye health in Oregon, we recognize the invaluable contributions of Joannah Vaughan, M.B.A. Though Joannah will retire at the end of this year, her efforts as liaison to the Elks and director of the Elks Preschool Vision Screening Program have been instrumental in nurturing this partnership. The program itself has been nothing short of transformative under her visionary leadership, ensuring that countless Oregon children benefit from early detection and treatment for common vision-threatening conditions. Please help us wish Joannah the best of luck in her next chapter.