New Eyes Thrives in the 21 st Century

The 2000s represented a new era of strategic transformation for New Eyes as it strengthened its U.S. Voucher Program and corporate partnerships, invested in technology and communications, and focused on charitable giving. A new website, a first-ever gala, anniversary celebrations and an engaged celebrity spokesperson, actor Jake Gyllenhaal, have helped raise awareness of

(e.g. MoralEyes, Warby Parker and Zeal Optics) to provide more low-income individuals with new eyeglasses. She also hired New Eyes’ first programing officer, Tamsin Morrison, who has played an instrumental role in overseeing the successful fulfillment of thousands of eyeglass requests each year.

New Eyes’ mission, while digital technology continues to expand its program offerings and reach.

New and evolving leadership at the board and staff levels has enhanced the organization’s overall impact. Executive Director Jean Gajano joined the organization in 2008 in a community relations role, bringing a 20-year career in the financial markets to the social justice realm. Appointed Executive Director in 2013, she worked with the Board to introduce a new business model, leveraging technology and optical partnerships

“When my grandfather got glasses for first really opened up for him. That’s why he always donated old frames to New Eyes for the Needy. Now I’m their spokesperson and I hope to make my grandpa proud.”