We strive to eliminate undetected and untreated vision problems as barriers to success in school and life, thus allowing all children the opportunity to succeed We strive to eliminate undetected and untreated vision problems as barriers to success in school and Prevent Blindness Mid-Atlantic, founded in 1957, is an affiliate of Prevent Blindness America, which was established in 1908. The mission to prevent blindness and preserve sight has been a constant since its inception over 50 years ago. Prevent Blindness Mid-Atlantic provides free vision screenings and other services to adults and children throughout Virginia, Washington, DC and Maryland. While we support a variety of public programs and services to all ages, our primary emphasis is the early detection of childhood vision problems. The purpose is to identify and refer children with potential vision problems to an eye care professional or primary care provider for further examination, diagnosis and if necessary, treatment and follow up.