Jay believes strongly in giving back to the community which has supported him and given him so much. His volunteer experiences include…

Essilor Vision Foundation
2013 – Present

Each June, Jay volunteers with the Essilor Vision Foundation to help eraticate poor vision by providing Eye Exams and Glasses for Children at the Student U School in Durham, North Carolina. Jay helps administer PD (pupillary distance) Measurements for the students, pick out frames, and works with the eye doctors who are  giving the exams to process and record their measurements. We provide the children with prescribed eyeglasses to help their vision needs. The eye exams and glasses are at no cost to the more than 100 students we serve each year.

“80% of what a child learns comes from their eyes and I want to give them an opportunity to see clearly to reach their full learning and behavioral potential. I want to make an impact and their is nothing better than seeing the reaction of a child when they get their new glasses and they can see well” — Jay Sonnhalter

  • 80% of all vision impairment can be prevented or cured.
  • Vision impairment is one of the most prevalent disabling conditions among children in the U.S.
  • Nearly a quarter of parents don’t have the financial resources for their kids’ full vision exams.

Special Olympics (2013)

Served as a volunteer race coordinator at Special Olympics athletic competition. Helped organize track events and time the athletes as they completed their races. Also, helped with setup of the events and coordination to make sure the athletes were in the right competitions.