Happy birthday to the one and only Jake Dalton, long time volunteer at New Eyes, who turns 94 years old today!  He’s also celebrating 27 years of service at New Eyes in April.   

Jake, New Eyes’ Overseas Recycling Program Manager, admits that while things have changed a lot since his first day at New Eyes on April 3, 1993, the dedication of his many fellow volunteers remains the same.  More than 330 adults, students and individuals from corporate groups volunteer at New Eyes every year - a sharp increase since Jake started volunteering.

Volunteers in the sorting room learn about different types of eyewear and how to sort them. “We have more categories of glasses than we did before,” says Jake.  He mentions a few, including single vision, progressive, children’s, readers, and sports.

A WW2 Navy veteran, Jake enjoys meeting new people, and is a terrific storyteller, with a sharp eye for detail.  According to Jake, staying active and making connections are the most important things in life. More of Jake’s advice: 

1-Volunteerism is important! It’s worthwhile, especially for teenagers.  It’s good for their self-esteem and sense of accomplishment.  

Jake reminisces about one busy summer, when he managed 85 students, as part of New Eyes’ high school program.  The students came in to sort eyeglasses, clean and organize. 

2 - Get involved in local community groups. For example, Knights of Columbus, American Legion, local church or hobby groups, etc. 

3 -Limit your time online and on the computer.

Jake doesn’t have a computer, and he’s happy.  He reads the newspaper and watches news on TV.  

Have a great birthday, Jake! New Eyes is so lucky to have you.