Dr. John Hanrahan: A Champion for Hope

He’s been called a humanitarian and a “communitarian,” and 25 years after founding Hope Alliance, Dr. John Hanrahan still chokes up when he thinks about children and adults who have not had access to vision care. “It’s such a simple thing that will have a profound impact on their lives,” he says. Hanrahan remains as dedicated as ever in vision clinics in Park City and Moab, Utah, and in clinics abroad, and serves as Board Chair of the non-profit. His only ambition: to be able to offer services to more people.

In February, the Wasatch Women's Social Club cleaned 432 pairs of sunglasses! Thank you to these wonderful women!

Our volunteers change lives and power our mission!

Justus with Hope Alliance Board Member Stacy Lippert

Meet Justus Tusiimegye

Justus is a remarkable individual from Uganda dedicated to service and education. Despite many challenges, he pursued nursing and became a vital part of the Hope Alliance team. Now, he's taking the next step towards his dream of becoming an Optometric Assistant studying at Ruharo Mission Hospital, Eye Centre. 

We were able to help make Justus's dream of pursuing education possible thanks to the support from Optometry Giving Sight. Read more about his journey!

Sunnies for Sight Fundraising Event

The fundraising event held on February 15th was a great success! Twenty-four women convened at Stanna Frampton's home to learn more about Hope Alliance, our mission, and forthcoming initiatives to broaden vision services across Utah.

As a token of appreciation, guests received a pair of Oliver People's designer sunglasses with their donation!

Stanna Frampton's Hope Alliance Journey

Stanna Frampton is one of those special individuals who finds joy in making a difference in the lives of others. She said that it’s just who she is and how she was raised. “It fulfills me in a lot of different ways,” Frampton says. “Just seeing - literally - the difference you can make… it would be devastating to me if I didn’t do what I could to give back.”

As a mother and grandmother, Frampton has spent her life taking care of her family. But recently she felt the need to do more. Her friend, a long-time Hope Alliance volunteer, originally told her about the Hope Alliance expeditions. Frampton did her research and from there she was hooked. Frampton has now been volunteering for Hope Alliance for about two years, first joining an expedition to Mexico, then to Uganda, then volunteering close to home at the Hope Alliance Vision Clinic as well as vision screenings for preschoolers, both in Park City. She’s been surprised by the need in Wasatch and Summit Counties. “It is unconscionable that people in our own community don’t have access to vision care,” she says.

Students at the Moab elementary school showed their gratitude for their shiny new glasses and crystal clear vision in very creative ways during our on campus clinic in February.

Breaking Ground in Uganda

We are thrilled to announce a significant milestone in our mission! January 2024 marked the groundbreaking of the new vision clinic at Bwindi Community Hospital.

Uganda has one of the world's lowest ophthalmologists per capita ratios, 1:1.5 million. This much-needed clinic aims to address the severe shortage of vision care providers in the region, improving overall health and well-being. The vision care offered will include eye exams, treatment of eye conditions, and prescription glasses. Additionally, the clinic will provide educational opportunities to patients regarding vision care, promoting the understanding of crucial health practices.

This groundbreaking initiative is a collaboration among many organizations and donors, including Hope Alliance.

March 1-11: Guatemala Vision Expedition

March 14: Service Project with Park City High School Interact Club Cleaning Sunglasses

March 15: Vision Clinic at the Hope Alliance Vision Center in Park City

March 21: Service Project with Lion's Club - Sorting Eyeglasses

March 26: Park City Community Foundation site visit to Hope Alliance