“Casual Charity Days” Benefit Local Charities

The team at Valley Eye Associates has conceived a new way to help make money for local charities and keep “cool” over the summer months. On these special “Casual Charity Days,” VEA staff members dressed in casual attire and contributed $5 each to support local charities. These three charities were chosen by VEA doctors. Through the generous donation of Dr. Michael Vrabec, who matched the staff’s contributions, the team delivered over $3,700 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Feeding America , and the Children’s Cancer Research Fund. Dr. Douglas Salm, Dr. Jennifer Unger, and Dr. Sara Schalk provided additional donations.

Surgery Coder, Ivy Blue, explains why she thinks giving back is important: “I think it’s so important to give back to the community in any way that you can, by volunteering your time, participating in fundraisers, sponsoring others that are participating in events, or even paying for a casual day at work. I am very fortunate to have a healthy family and the means to provide for our daily needs. I like to do what I can to help others. I love the sense of community when we come together for a positive cause. Positive actions cause positive reactions and this world needs all the positivity it can get.”

”I love the sense of community when we come together for a positive cause. Positive actions cause positive reactions and this world needs all the positivity it can get.”

Ivy was one of the staff members who helped deliver the first donation to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. “Make-A-Wish is so close to my heart. My husband Bob and I have been involved with Make-A-Wish for many years. When I heard [Make-A-Wish] was a charity we were donating to, I jumped at the chance to go with to present the donation. I love the fact that it grants the wishes of local children. Kris and her staff work so hard for these children and their families. When we presented the donation, Kris took the time to give us a tour and explain what the donation was going to be used for. She also shared stories of past recipients. I had happy tears and sad tears when we left. It was heartwarming to know how hard this organization works for the wishes of the children!”

Valley Eye Associates staff members deliver a check to the the Make-A-Wish Foundation

Dr. Jennifer Unger made the recommendation of Feeding America. “Casual days are a fun way to serve our community. The VEA staff is so generous. Our Feeding America donation provided nearly 10,000 meals for Fox Valley residents. Every dollar counts and they add up faster together!”

Valley Eye Associates staff members deliver a check to Feeding America

At Valley Eye Associates, we believe in giving back to the community we live in. You’ll also find VEA doctors and staff members participating in youth sports programs, sponsoring local golf outings, and volunteering their time at community events. We’re incredibly grateful to this wonderful community for supporting our practice over the last 37 years, and we’re dedicated to supporting it right back.