RE-SPECS Frames for the Needy founder and CEO Chana Simon was interviewed by Michael Prosmushkin, correspondent for Yedioth Ahronoth’s local Sharon publication. The article, which appeared in the newspaper of October 26, 2012, detailed the organization from its earliest beginnings, emphasizing its aims and vision and what it needs in order to grow. To quote Chana, “Every visually impaired person, irrespective of their economic situation, should be able to acquire corrective eyewear.” She went on to explain that, “Giving, helping others is of enormous importance. This is what motivates me and the organization.”

RE-SPECS emphasizes the importance of making full use of recyclable products like glasses, and so helping to preserve the planet.

The news article created a lot of interest. Many readers, including several local optometrists, learnt of the existence of RE-SPECS for the very first time and were quick to come forward with offers of help.

Great things happen at Meitarim high school Raanana, a pluralistic co-ed school for grades 9-12, and among them are volunteer projects in the community. The school strongly encourages participation in these programs and the students bring their own drive and enthusiasm to what becomes a fun commitment.

In October 2012, RE-SPECS was selected as a new volunteer program at the school among the 10th-graders. Since then, once a week, a stock of recyclable glasses is delivered and a group of dedicated students gets together to sort, clean and repair the used frames under the direction of RE-SPECS staff. They do an amazing job and have a good time as well, as you can see in the picture to the left. For more pictures of Meitarim students working on this project, go to our Facebook page. 

We are thrilled to have the Meitarim students on board and thank them and the school authorities for their much-appreciated assistance.

In a welcoming move, Telfed (the South African Zionist Federation - Israel) has offered the use of its Moadon Le'Oleh at 19 Schwartz Street, Raanana, to RE-SPECS Frames for the Needy. The premises are to be used weekly to host RE-SPECS' volunteers who help sort, clean and maintain the hundreds of glasses frames that are donated. In the words of Telfed Deputy Director Dorron Kline, "We are happy to assist needy Southern African and other Olim by making available the use of our Moadon Le'Oleh for the wonderful work that RE-SPECS is doing." 

RE-SPECS is looking forward to beginning the mutual project and will inaugurate its first volunteer session at Telfed on Tuesday 16 October, 2012.

To join our volunteer team, click here.