Appalachian Power recently partnered with WVU Eye Institute and Wheeling Health Right to sponsor a much-needed eye clinic that provided complete eye exams to patients from the local community. The event, held last month at the nonprofit health center in Wheeling, offered both improved vision and important insight into patients’ overall health—underscoring the power of partnership and purpose-driven outreach.

Thanks to the support of Appalachian Power, patients received thorough eye exams from volunteer optometrists who screened for vision correction and for signs of broader health issues. For many patients, this was their first comprehensive eye exam in years. For some patients, the exams revealed underlying health conditions requiring further medical attention.

Of the more than 100 individuals served, 89 were prescribed glasses. WVU and Wheeling Health Right coordinated the drive-thru distribution of the eyewear, with an income-based copay model to ensure affordability. Sponsorships, including Appalachian Power’s, covered the bulk of the costs, making it possible for nearly every patient to receive glasses without financial strain.

“These eye exams did more than improve sight,” said Rebecca Coakley with WVU Eye Institute. “They opened doors to better health and identified conditions that might have gone undetected otherwise. We’re incredibly grateful for Appalachian Power’s support in making this possible.”

Appalachian Power donated funding and support for the clinic as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to serve the communities where we live and work.

“When we talk about powering communities, this is exactly what we mean,” said Appalachian Power’s Kerry McKeever manager of distribution systems, “We’re not just delivering electricity. We’re helping people live healthier, more connected lives.”

The event also reaffirmed the value of local collaboration. For the Appalachian Power team, it was another reminder that small efforts, like helping someone see clearly can have a big impact on their daily life.