PBA selects delegates for Capital Hill event

Washington, DC-More than 70 applicants representing more than 20 states have been selected as delegates to the "Eyes on Capitol Hill" campaign in Washington, DC, Feb. 12 to 14.

Sponsored by Prevent Blindness America (PBA), the program is designed to give constituents who have been affected by vision loss an opportunity to discuss vision issues with their respective government representatives. Delegates also will learn how to become effective advocates for vision health in their states after returning home.

PBA and its affiliates encouraged citizens to share their personal stories of vision issues with the organization. After receiving hundreds of essays, a volunteer review committee awarded scholarships to cover travel, meal, and hotel expenses for participants. Delegates are permitted to bring a sighted guide and/or chaperone if visually impaired, or a parent or guardian in the case of youth delegates. Applicants not awarded a scholarship were invited to participate at their own expense.

For more information about the "Eyes on Capitol Hill" event, contact PBA at 800/331-2020 or visit http://www.preventblindness.net/eoch/.