Beyond the Bottom: Foundation Fighting Blindness

What does it take to fund a cure for blindness and build a community around those fighting it every day? In this episode, Sean sits down with three members of the Pennsylvania chapters of the Foundation Fighting Blindness: Eric Bernardo, chapter president of the Pittsburgh chapter; Jeff, a longtime volunteer and sponsorship lead; and Dan Koval, Pennsylvania community manager. Together they pull back the curtain on one of the most impactful research-driven nonprofits in the country, from grassroots vision walks to nearly $1 billion granted in scientific research, and share what it really means to show up for a community that’s fighting to keep its sight.

What We Explore in This Episode

About Eric, Jeff & Dan

Eric Bernardo is the volunteer president of the Pittsburgh chapter of the Foundation Fighting Blindness, a role he has held since June 2021. First involved with the organization since 2017, Eric leads chapter strategy across fundraising, community outreach, and volunteer recruitment. In 2023, the Pittsburgh chapter was recognized nationally at the Foundation’s international conference for its remarkable growth and momentum.

Jeff Lukacsenais a longtime volunteer with the Foundation Fighting Blindness, first connecting with the Pittsburgh chapter in 2015 to 2016. He continued his involvement through the Indianapolis chapter while completing graduate school, serving in leadership roles in both cities. He currently supports the Pittsburgh chapter’s sponsorship efforts.

Dan Koval is the Pennsylvania Community Manager for the Foundation Fighting Blindness, overseeing the Philadelphia and Pittsburgh chapters. In his role, Dan serves as the connective tissue between the Foundation’s national resources and the people who need them most, providing referrals, support, and a no-barrier entry point for anyone newly navigating a vision impairment diagnosis.

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