Responsibility
When we started our business, we decided to make a commitment to the community, to sustainability, and to providing good jobs.
For example, Dr. Kim volunteers her time at Del Mar Elementary School where she meets with students in the “Glasses Club”. She talks to them about why it is important to wear their prescriptions. Also, we have an agreement with the school to provide both exams and glasses to students in need at reduced or no cost. Similarly, we work with the Lions Club which has been working to “give sight” for nearly 100 years.
Furthermore, when we built our office, we used recycled, reused, and green materials throughout our space. Some examples include our furniture which was made by Berkeley Mills, The Wooden Duck, and The Habitats Collection. All three are conscientious businesses that incorporate FSC certified and reclaimed wood into their designs.
Similarly, Greenspace provided our flooring, which consist of sustainably harvested cork and bamboo, and also soy-based stains and sealers that were used to finish the exposed concrete foundation. Our lab cabinets came from a circa 1960s kitchen, while the floor tiles were created from used tires. Furthermore, the interior doors, many of our fixtures, and even sinks were rediscovered at Urban Ore in Berkeley.
When we chose eyeglasses manufacturers, we searched for companies that share a similar vision. Quite a bit of work is required to finish a pair of glasses. Thus, we looked for frames that were produced in countries that support fair labor. We carry glasses made in France, Japan, and Italy. Additionally, our readers are made from recycled plastic, while other frames incorporate cruelty-free horn from India.
We also carry antique frames. They are refurbished and have lasted 50 years or more. Last but not least, we happily accept donations of used glasses for the Lions Club, which promotes good vision for children and adults around the world.
We have been certified as a green business by the Monterey Bay Green Business Program. We also donate 1% of our gross sales to local environmental groups. Likewise, as members of Think Local First, we work with other Santa Cruz businesses to provide eye care for their employees. Finally, we do our best to provide a good work environment for our employees. We pay living wages and provide our employees with health care.
