We are reaching out to you not just as partners in the eyecare community, but as part of an extended family brought together by our shared commitment to excellence in the optical industry. ClearVision Optical is inviting you to celebrate alongside us for our annual Founder’s Day; this year is extra special as it marks the monumental milestone of our 75^th anniversary. This isn’t just a celebration of longevity; it’s truly a tribute to a legacy of leadership, compassion, and strength by our remarkable founder, Fred Friedfeld, and the organization he pioneered. 

Fred’s vision extended far beyond business success. He envisioned a community connected by shared values, mutual respect, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. As we commemorate this significant anniversary, we’re inspired to embrace the phrase “we go the extra smile” as a testament to our unwavering dedication to providing quality service and products. 

As part of our commitment, we aim to nurture the next generation of optometrists. In honor of Fred’s memory and to perpetuate his values of kindness and lifelong learning, the Friedfeld family established a scholarship fund at the SUNY School of Optometry in New York City. Fred was a consummate businessman, making friends everywhere he traveled and touching people with every interaction. Many of you may have experienced a time when Fred provided a learning lesson, sent a personal note, or handed out one of his lucky $2 bills.  Fred loved to extend his thoughtfulness to others, which lives on through this award. Through active involvement with the University, we deeply understand the challenges students face to complete their optometry degree with significant financial obligations; however, it is our belief that this fund serves as more than financial aid- it’s a significant stepping stone for future leaders in eyecare, encouraging them to innovate, serve, and excel.

It is our greatest hope that a talented student will achieve through investment in their education and later go on to making advances in patient healthcare, medical research, and/or innovate to write the next chapter of vision therapy. Much like Fred, they are the future entrepreneurs and independent, small-business owners, who help local neighborhoods to obtain accessible vision care and support the employment of talent. Our ambition is to expand the reach of the Fred Friedfeld Scholarship Fund even further. We’ve been humbled by the generosity of our community, raising over $100,000 to date, and we are committed to matching these contributions to strengthen the impact. Since its inception in 2014, the foundation scholarship has supported ten students to help reduce the burden of tuition fees. Chosen based on merit, those students then go on to graduate and work in the field, treating patients with the utmost care and positively affecting people’s lives on a daily basis. 

We welcome you to join us in this honorable mission. Every donation, big or small, will contribute to a brighter future for emerging eyecare professionals and the communities they serve. Donations can be made directly on this website. Alternatively, a check can be made to
the Optometric Center of NY with an added note stating it is for the Fred Friedfeld Scholarship Fund. Your generous contribution is tax-deductible and a great way of honoring Fred’s legacy while furthering the industry we share.