Eye Health, Human Connection & A Community That Cares – A Reflection from the New Britain Eye Health Fair – By Shatoya Simmons (Intern, Goodwin University)

When I walked into the Community Room at the Ribicoff Building on June 3rd, I knew I was attending something special, but I didn’t realize just how impactful this day would truly be.

From the moment the welcoming ceremony began, the energy in the room felt intentional. Each speech, from Kristin Dockendorff’s honorary address to the inspiring presentations from eye care professionals and disability advocates, brought something meaningful to the table. I heard about services and devices from Eschenbach, Newsline and National Federation of the Blind of CT, Greater Hartford Transit, and Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation puppy raisers. Click here to watch our YouTube video of the event.

As an intern representative of UR Community Cares, I felt not just proud to be there, but grateful to witness how so many organizations came together for one shared mission: to shine a light on the importance of eye health and accessibility for all. I met people from the Connecticut Tech Act Project, EverCare of CT Homecare, Non-24 Hour Sleep-Wake Disorder, Connecticut Library for Accessible Books and more.

This wasn’t just an event. It was an experience, a beautiful, orchestrated collaboration between the New Britain Housing Authority, the Recreation Department, and UR Community Cares. In addition, all the incredible vendors and volunteers who gave their time, heart, and resources. From learning about adaptive technology, sleep-wake disorders, and low vision services to simply connecting with attendees who were eager to learn and grow, the fair was a vivid reminder of how education and empathy go hand and hand.

I was especially moved by how inclusive and welcoming the atmosphere was. People of all ages and abilities gathered to ask questions, explore resources, and take away practical tools that can change lives, especially for those navigating vision challenges. I learned all about the South East CT Community Center of the Blind, Lions Low Vision Center, Independence Unlimited, Wheeler Clinic, and Connecticut Relay.

Community Art

I was amazed that EverCare of Connecticut Home Care sponsored an artist to create a community mural for the building.
Marsh, a New Britain artist, part of RiseUp for Arts came to dedicate the piece during the event.

We had tables full of insight. Speakers who truly cared. Breakout moments of laughter, learning, and real community connection. This is the kind of event that reminds you just how much impact we can make when we come together.

A Heartfelt Thank You

To everyone who attended, presented, hosted, and supported the New Britain Eye Health Fair, thank you. Your presence mattered. Your voice added value, and your participation helped raise the standard for what community outreach should look like.

And for those reading this who couldn’t attend, we hope to see you at the next one. Because if there’s one thing I took away from that day, it’s this:
Awareness is powerful. Education is freedom. And access to resources is a conversation we must keep having.