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2005 Humanitarian Service Awards

It is with pride and pleasure that we honor these wonderful volunteers for their generous donation of time, talent, and energy. They serve as examples of the power of volunteerism, and this award recognizes their contributions to communities worldwide. Unite For Sight's Humanitarian Service Award is given to new chapters and volunteers who have demonstrated excellent leadership and dedication since January 2005.

Cathy DeLuca

Unite For Sight Writer

Cathy DeLuca resides in the town of Smithfield, Rhode Island. After graduating high school, she stumbled straight into the arms of corporate America. In her fantasy life Cathy is a ballet dancer; in reality, she works as a computer software trainer and technical support person for a national insurance company.

Recently, Cathy rediscovered her passion for writing. While seeking out writing opportunities on the web, she came across a Unite For Sight posting. Not knowing anything of the organization, she went to the UFS website for more information. Cathy says, "I came away in awe of the accomplishments of Jennifer Staple and her network of chapter volunteers."

One of Cathy's first assignments for UFS was to help edit the 2004 Volunteers of the Year segment for the website. Later, she began writing press releases for different chapter events. Two personal challenges for her are: communicating solely through e-mail and describing events that she's not personally witnessed. "As someone who's curious by nature, I've come to depend on the Internet for research on places such as Port Harcourt, Zeytun, and Bolifamba," says Cathy. The medical terms are another matter! Hyperopia? Onchocerciasis? Exophthalmia? On the bright side, she's glad she doesn't have to pronounce them.

"My hope when I began this volunteer opportunity was simply to gain some writing experience. But, I've gained so much more...a new-found awareness of global eye health issues, how UFS volunteers are working together to confront them, and what it means to those who've been given the renewed gift of sight. Someday, I'd like to take part in a UFS vision education program and write about it firsthand." - Cathy DeLuca

"It is a pleasure working with Cathy. Her dedication to her work provides Unite For Sight with invaluable help. Cathy provides the voice behind Unite For Sight's press releases."

-Jennifer Staple, Founder, President & CEO, Unite For Sight
Picture of Valda Ford

Valda Ford, MPH, RN, MS

Unite For Sight Director of Refugee Initiatives
Unite For Sight Volunteer at Buduburam Refugee Camp in Ghana (December 28 - February 28) (April 6-20),
Taiama Refugee Camp in Sierra Leone (June 1-16),
and Galle Refugee Camp in Sri Lanka (July 7 - 21)

Valda Boyd Ford is Director of Community and Multicultural Affairs at University of Nebraska Medical Center. Previously Assistant Professor at Creighton University School of Nursing, she is currently pursuing her doctoral degree in Educational Administration and Curriculum Design at University of Nebraska. She was also recently appointed to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director's Council of Public Representatives (COPR), a federal advisory committee who advises the NIH Director on "matters related to medical research, NIH policies and programs and public participation in agency activities," according to NIH.

Valda is Founder and Executive Director of The Center for Human Diversity, a 10-month intensive institute to develop culturally competent care providers and increase organizational capacity for cultural competence. Additionally, Valda is Executive Producer/Host of Valda's Place, a weekly cable TV show addressing broad perspectives on health and diversity.

Valda's work with Unite For Sight finds her traveling to different refugee sites to establish programs based on UFS's refugee camp program model.

"Before going to Buduburam Refugee Camp, I thought I had a good idea of what people experience in tough situations. I was wrong. The experience of being in, working in, and living at a refugee camp for more than two months allowed me to get a much better perspective of the conditions and stresses of far too many people in the world.

Before going, I prepared myself clinically for the work I would do in the eye clinic, but there was no way to prepare myself for "life" as a refugee lives it. The lessons were amazing, beautiful, poignant, painful and will forever live in my heart. I came away from Buduburam with a renewed sense of myself, my abilities, and my desire to help vulnerable people. It was made so easy because the people were gracious, welcoming, warm, and gave me more than I can ever repay. It was, and continues to be, a life-enriching experience.

Working with Unite for Sight is amazing. There is an almost automatic comradery formed by people who have the same mission, and the volunteers of Unite for Sight are some of the most caring and compassionate people I have ever met." -Valda Boyd Ford

"It is a privilege and honor to work with Valda, and she is the model for the ultimate volunteer. She has a unique combination of talent, leadership, and compassion that makes her an incredible volunteer in any setting. Every local partner NGO, and each
Unite For Sight volunteer working with Valda, profess their appreciation for her dedication, passion, and altruism. She inspires by example."

-Jennifer Staple, Founder, President & CEO, Unite For Sight
Picture of Julie Harris

Julie Harris, PhD

Unite For Sight Ghana Program Coordinator
Unite For Sight Volunteer at Buduburam Refugee Camp (February 28 - July 29)

Julie Harris was born and raised in Rochester, NY. According to Julie, prior to her birth, her parents traveled extensively. As a child, Julie developed her parents' interest in the world -- especially that of developing countries.

Julie attended Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute to study biology. Although unsure how she would use her degree, she went on to graduate school at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. In 2004, she completed her PhD in microbiology. During her studies, Julie worked on a mouse model for the common cold virus. She also traveled extensively throughout Europe, South America, Africa, and the Middle East.

Julie's travels deepened her interest in international work, which led to her involvement with Unite For Sight in Buduburam.

"The rewards involved in taking part in this program [Buduburam Refugee Camp] have far exceeded my expectations: the learning curve is exponential and it's not an experience I could have had anywhere else." -- Julie Harris

"Julie is a true jewel. She is so dedicated and sincerely wants to help anyone and everyone. In addition to providing eye care at Buduburam Refugee Camp for 5 months, she also initiated science education classes, educational scholarships, microenterprise programs, and cane and Braille classes for blind people. It is a privilege to work with her."

-Jennifer Staple, Founder, President & CEO, Unite For Sight

Aabed Meer

Unite For Sight Regional Director of the Northeast
Coordinator of 2005 Unite For Sight 2nd Annual International Health Conference at Harvard

Aabed Meer is an undergraduate student at Harvard University majoring in Biochemical Sciences. He is Unite For Sight's Regional Director of the Northeast and leads the Harvard Chapter of Unite for Sight. Aabed is committed to furthering Unite for Sight's mission of fostering healthy communities worldwide.

In addition to his devotion to Unite For Sight, Aabed manages to serve as an Editor of the campus daily, The Harvard Crimson; is a Managing Editor of the Harvard Health Policy Review; and is Co-President of the Harvard Health Policy Society.

Aabed has contributed to research that culminated in the genetic sequence and annotation of Human Chromosome 7. Currently, he is performing neurogenetics research at the Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston.

"Aabed effortlessly and naturally led the coordination of the Unite For Sight Conference. His tremendous devotion insured that the conference was a great success."

-Jennifer Staple, Founder, President & CEO, Unite For Sight
Picture of Bernard Sakran

Bernard Sakran, Optometrist

Unite For Sight Volunteer in Henan, China (December 28 - January 10)
San Luis, El Salvador (May 15 - 30)

Bernard Sakran graduated from the University of Bar-Ilan, Tel-Aviv in 2000 with a B.Sc in Optometry. Prior to his college experience, Bernard spent a year exploring the world through travel. A self-proclaimed travel nut, he courageously set out with no itinerary -- just a map and a backpack. As he witnessed inequities among cultures, he developed an interest in helping the underserved.

Several internships during college directed Bernard's interest in nonprofit organizations. His work as an intern centered on war prevention in the Middle East, public health, and the promotion of a peaceful global order.

Following his internships, Bernard worked several years as an Optometrist. During that time, he kept active in local service organizations, where he found ways to contribute his skills to the underprivileged.

While working at a rehabilitation Lighthouse Center in Israel, Bernard developed his medical skills and began studying the workings of nonprofit organizations. However, he still felt called to serve internationally.

Bernard says once he began traveling again, he found he couldn't stop. He considers his first Unite For Sight program in China a "fascinating" experience. Of the El Salvador program in 2005, Bernard said, "It broadened my understanding of the challenges to develop more complex programs in different societies."

Bernard is currently attending the Pennsylvania College of Optometry to obtain a Master Degree in Optometry. As a professional, he hopes to spend more time involved in social programs.

"Even though sometimes you get the feeling of 'Unable to stay, Unwilling to leave' when conditions get difficult at times, I think there's nothing stronger than the heart of a volunteer and a desire to put philosophical convictions into action." -- Bernard Sakran

"Bernard's spirit for volunteerism is remarkable. It is always an honor and privilege to
work with him, and we are very fortunate to have a volunteer who is so devoted to providing quality optometric services worldwide."

-Jennifer Staple, Founder, President & CEO, Unite For Sight
Picture of Zara Shubber

Zara Shubber, MD Candidate

Unite For Sight Volunteer at Buduburam Refugee Camp in Ghana (April 1-29)
San Luis, El Salvador (May 2 - June 2) (August 1-30)

Zara Shubber is a third year medical student at Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland. She describes herself as caring, compassionate, young and full of energy.

Zara has lived through both the Iraq-Iran and the Gulf War. She says that she can personally relate to the refugee experience, having been one herself. Before her stay in Dublin, Zara lived in the United States, England and Northern Ireland.

During her college experience, a class study in disabilities led Zara to don eye patches and sunglasses as she set out with a partner to perform routine tasks. What others might not give a second thought to such as shopping, walking through town, and catching a bus, took on a new meaning for Zara. The experience helped her to realize the importance of sight and how it is often taken for granted in the western world due to better health care and living standards.

"Medicine and travel are the two passions of my life and I believe that volunteering for Unite for Sight encompasses both of these aspects." - Zara Shubber

"Zara displays tremendous initiative to help those in need. Zara is invaluable, sincerely dedicated to improving eye health in both Ghana and El Salvador. Her tireless work has changed countless lives."

-Jennifer Staple, Founder, President & CEO, Unite For Sight
Picture of Yanan Zhang

Yanan Zhang, Law Degree Candidate

Unite For Sight Regional Director of China
Coordinator of all Unite For Sight programs in China, including Summer 2005 and Fall 2005 programs
Unite For Sight Volunteer in China (December 28 - January 10) (June 29 - August 1)

Yanan Zhang is a graduate student in finance law at the Central University of Finance and Economics, Beijing. She was awarded a BA in Law by the same university last year.

Yanan's interest in social equity has led to her winning the excellent prize in National Papers Competition of "Rule of Law, Rights and Lawyers" in 2003. Currently, she is doing research on social security reform in China's rural areas.

As an undergraduate, Yanan was a member of National Youth Volunteer Organization, and implemented law propaganda programs in communities in Beijing. She has been an online volunteer for Professional Education Organization International, VolunteerGalapagos and Hate Crime Network.

Following her service with UFS's winter program in China, Yanan gained a new awareness of poverty and discrimination among China's population. She believes that each member of society has a purpose and that with simple measures, people can be made physically and psychologically stronger, allowing them to share their gifts with others. Yanan hopes by providing health care to those in need, she can give them a brighter world.

"Yanan has created Unite For Sight's presence in China, which continuously grows. She has tremendous vision, passion, initiative, and motivation. She works with local eye care professionals throughout China, secures donations for eye care in China, and orders eyeglasses and equipment for Unite For Sight's worldwide programs. Yanan epitomizes Unite For Sight's spirit for volunteerism."

-Jennifer Staple, Founder, President & CEO, Unite For Sight
Picture of Abia State Chapter (Nigeria)

Abia State Chapter (Nigeria)

Led by Henry Ekwuruke and James Chima Ezuruike

With two successful Vision and Health Education Programs under their belt, chapter leaders Henry Ekwuruke and James Chima Ezuruike can be proud of their team's efforts.

The first program, held in December at Margaret School in Umuahia, provided the chapter with an opportunity to disseminate information on eye anatomy, eye health, and ways to prevent blindness.

Henry and James helped ensure the success of their program by spending a few hours talking with their audience. Later, they were approached by some people who admitted to knowing little about eye health. They were very interested in learning about eye health from the Abia State chapter members and offered and encouraged them to do more.

The chapter's second program at the Federal Medical Centre in Umuahia marked their participation in Global Youth Service Day. The positive response from hospital staff and community members resulted in the immediate and welcome recruitment of additional UFS volunteers. One of those expressing pleasure with the program was Dr. Abali Chukwu, Chief Medical Consultant of the Federal Medical Centre and advisor to the Abia State Chapter.

Mr. Uche Ogbusuo, UFS educator, spoke to the audience about the importance of routine eye examinations, the benefits of wearing sunglasses, and the role Vitamin A plays in eye health--especially in children.

Volunteers handed out information on identifying refractive problems such as myopia and presbyopia. Sunglasses were also given out amidst expressions of gratitude from recipients.

Mr. Ekwuruke made a personal contribution of Vitamin A-rich foods to the participating children and adults.

"The Unite For Sight chapter in Abia State has achieved great success since its recent founding. Henry and James display tremendous leadership and vision, and it is an honor to work with them."

-Jennifer Staple, Founder, President & CEO, Unite For Sight
Picture of Cote d'Ivoire Chapter

Cote d'Ivoire Chapter

Led by Blanchard Vagba

A measure of the Cote D'Ivoire's chapter's success under the leadership of Blanchard Vagba, President and Chair, came after a recent vision program at the Christ Le Roi School. The school's directors were so impressed with the program that they offered the use of the school to UFS for future endeavors.

Although geared to school children, the program also attracted the attention of adults who learned of the screening through pamphlets strategically placed around the school quarter. In all, about 100 children and adults participated in the screening.

The chapter began their program with an instructional overview. Next, they created separate areas designated for registration, reading exams, and private consultations with an eye doctor.

Following the consultations, Blanchard met with participants to discuss general eye care and preventive health measures.

The Cote d'Ivoire chapter is collaborating with other West African UFS programs. They sent a representative to visit the Buduburam Refugee Camp in Ghana. In return, they were visited by Julie Harris, Unite For Sight's Ghana Program Coordinator, in July.

"Blanchard is an incredible leader of the Cote DIvoire chapter and displays wonderful passion and vision. The chapter recruited local eye doctors to work with them in partnership to provide free eye care to the medically underserved in the community. The entire chapter is truly impressive!"

-Jennifer Staple, Founder, President & CEO, Unite For Sight

Loyola University Chapter

Led by Amber Afshar and Sikandar Khan
Unite For Sight Regional Director of the Midwest

From its start in the Fall of 2004, the Loyola Chapter has enthusiastically been led by Amber Afshar, President and Sikandar Khan, Chair. Early on, the chapter was committed to community service. Thus began a successful campaign to partner with Chicago Public Schools (an astonishing total of 631 schools), as well as a variety of homeless shelters and community centers.

The chapter overcame a stumbling block in recruitment efforts while awaiting student organization status from Loyola University, which was not granted until January 2005. Until that time, the chapter was unable to advertise, hold meetings, or use campus listserves. Still, the officers managed to create a solid foundation of eager volunteers, and current membership stands at 52.

Without university backing, the chapter relied solely on the dedication of its officers, members, and friends to raise funds for their projects and for monies to send overseas. Their combined efforts resulted in collections of over $1,000; the majority of funds were attributed to candy sales.

"Our first year has taught us many lessons; it has tested our patience and commitment to the cause of social justice when our plans have met limited success, as well as fueled our belief that the donation of our time and effort to the community can, and does, make a difference in the world at large." - Loyola Chapter 2005 Annual Report

"The Loyola Chapter, led by chapter President Amber Afshar and chapter Chair Sikandar Khan, is a model for excellence. They are true visionaries with tremendous compassion, dedication, and leadership."

-Jennifer Staple, Founder, President & CEO, Unite For Sight
University of North Carolina Chapel Hill Chapter

University of North Carolina Chapel Hill Chapter

Led by Lindsay Roofe and Jennifer Reynolds
Unite For Sight Regional Director of the South

Under the dedicated leadership of Lindsay Roofe, President, the UNC-CH chapter's commitment to uphold Unite For Sight's mission has resulted in the collection of hundreds of pairs of donated eyeglasses, the implementation of eye health education programs in local schools, and numerous vision screenings at local shelters. Nearby communities such as Carrboro, Durham, and Raleigh are also benefiting from the chapter's efforts.

The chapter is commended for the creation of their own Latino Outreach. As part of that program, volunteers went to Hendersonville, NC to learn how migrant workers live. They toured working fields, visited a migrant health clinic, and conducted a vision screening. Additionally, they were able to procure a much-needed eye care grant for the clinic.

Chapter members have also risen to the challenge of obtaining funding and raising awareness about UFS. Some of their activities included: designing Unite For Sight's T-Shirts; a "Relay for Life" team; hosting a community center health festival; distributing information on eye health care; and being published in a campus magazine. One of their most successful activities, "Beach Blast Party," elicited donations of eyeglasses and hundreds of dollars for UFS initiatives. In total, the chapter has raised nearly $2,500 for Unite For Sight's international eye care programs.

Five UNC-CH members will be UFS international volunteers this summer in Nigeria, India, Cameroon, and El Salvador.

"The UNC-CH Chapter, led by chapter President Lindsay Roofe and chapter Chair Jennifer Reynolds, is a model for excellence. Their work has benefited hundreds of people in the United States and abroad, and their enthusiasm, dedication, motivation,
and selflessness is infectious. We consider it an honor and a privilege to work with the UNC-CH chapter."

-Jennifer Staple, Founder, President & CEO, Unite For Sight