WOC begins with forum on vision and blindness prevention

The 2006 World Ophthalmology Congress (WOC) commenced Sunday in São Paulo, Brazil. With the first non-governmental organization (NGO) forum on vision and blindness prevention. The forum promoted the visibility of non-profit organizations that focus both on blindness prevention and assisting the visually impaired, contributing to an exchange of experiences between entities from all continents and from different socioeconomic realities, as well as organizing and providing a complete record of entities that cater to this area.

Representatives from more than 100 entities in 33 countries participated in the event and with one single objective: "Vision for everyone." The program included lectures, exhibitions, and meetings among members from all NGOs, generating opportunities for interacting and exchanging experiences, as well as integrating and leveraging projects to obtain increasingly better results.

Non-profit organizations play an increasingly greater political, economic, and social role, according to WOC. They provide social services to the population complementary of state initiatives, particularly in areas of utmost need, such as health. They represent a real and organized demand, capable of generating social changes in the quality of life. Said organizations present very positive values, such as transparency, solidarity, participative management, and focus on actions, the WOC said in a prepared statement.