My name is Dr. Valerie Arnold and I am an optometrist in Little Rock, Arkansas and I am working to increase eye care access for students across the state who come from low income backgrounds or live in rural areas. My goal is to ensure that no student is struggling to see at school because they have a lack of insurance or lack of transportation. I am raising money to help with this endeavor because I'm finally realizing that I cannot reach this goal on my own. I walked away from a full-time job in a big group practice when I realized that that was not the kind of eye doctor I want it to be. I decided to become an optometrist to help kids see their best and I've decided to get back to that mission. I didn't join this profession to make money but as a business owner I know that you have to have the funds to keep things moving.

For the upcoming school year, I will be servicing at least three different schools in Arkansas and I'm raising money to help cover expenses such as traveling to rural parts of the state, service fees, supplies, equipment and if I raise enough, the expense of hiring and assistant to travel to the schools with me. Each student I see receives a full comprehensive eye examination including dilation as needed, and a new pair of prescription eyeglasses all at no cost to them.

Since I want to expand to more schools across the state I know I will need more help and support, so if you are unable to make a donation but may be willing to volunteer or if you know of anyone who would be interested in partnering with me in this endeavor, please reach out to me at [email protected]. I also ask for your prayers for the students, schools, and myself.

The majority of what our children learn is through seeing and I want to make sure that every student is able to do their very best and it's really hard to do that when you can't see well. Thank you so much for your time and consideration.