Danny Gokey, recording artist and American Idol star, will auction off 24 pairs of glasses to help children receive needed eye exams and glasses
Danny Gokey, recording artist and American Idol star, has launched his Clear Days Ahead program in partnership with Wisconsin Vision and his Sophia’s Heart Foundation. The program will auction off 24 pairs of glasses worn by Gokey throughout the year. The proceeds will be used to help provide free eye exams and glasses for children in the Milwaukee community.
“Wisconsin Vision has always had a history of philanthropy,” said Darren Horndasch, president and chief executive officer of Wisconsin Vision. “This is an opportunity to showcase Danny’s talent and his focus at Sophia’s Heart Foundation to continue to enhance those efforts to help more families in need.”
The first pair of glasses were auctioned off this week. According to Horndasch, the blue and white Gucci designer glasses were worn by Gokey during American Idol season eight and on the red carpet and were sold for $610.
“The first auction exceeded our expectations,” Horndasch said.
The glasses were sent to the buyer along with an autographed photo of authenticity and a Danny Gokey signature eyeglasses case designed exclusively for this program by Wisconsin Vision.
Wisconsin Vision plans to auction off a different pair of glasses two times a month.
“We are working with the Wisconsin Teachers Association to help us identify schools in need where we can set up screening sites and eye exams for children,” Horndasch said. “Our first screening day will take place on Friday, April 8 at Clarke Street School in Milwaukee.”
Wisconsin Vision will conduct the eye exams as well as provide needed lenses frames and fabrications for the children, Horndasch said.
“This program is a great way to engage Danny’s fans across the country and utilize Wisconsin Vision’s advanced, quality vision care to benefit area children,” said Hsing Liu, director of operations at Sophia’s Heart Foundation. “We hope to eventually grow this program in other communities.”
Wisconsin Vision is in the process of setting up the next auction for a few weeks from now. There is a possibility that the selected school will rotate with each auction, but right now that decision hasn’t been determined yet, Horndasch said.
“We’re learning as we go,” he said. “We’re working closely with individiuals at Sophia’s Heart Foundation, and we look forward to brining Danny’s fans a new pair of glasses in an auction very shortly.”
