Speakers’ Bureau 

Present on behalf of the AAO. 

We partner with community and stakeholder organizations to deliver engaging presentations on eye health. 

Through the Speakers’ Bureau, AAO members may be eligible to receive compensation for developing and delivering presentations for the AAO that promote public awareness and education. 

Time Commitment: 2-3 hours per presentation (including prep and delivery, not including presentation development) 

Why It Matters: Public and stakeholder education builds trust, raises awareness, and reinforces the value of optometry in primary health care. Presenters also gain experience in public speaking and have the opportunity to build their professional network. 

Social Media Ambassadors  

Help us amplify the voice of optometry online. 

We’re looking for members and clinics to collaborate on creating engaging social media content. Depending on your location and interest, we may organize an in-clinic shoot, or send you tools to do filming on your own. 

Time Commitment: 2-3 hours per content session 

Why It Matters: Social media is a powerful tool to educate the public, encourage patients to book appointments, and advocate for your profession! Participants will be tagged and can re-post content developed with the AAO to further build their own online networks. 

Community Events  

Represent the AAO in your community. 

From seniors’ expos to library fairs, local events are a great way to connect with the public. Let us know if there’s an event in your area that you think the AAO should be a part of. We’d love to collaborate with you to deliver a presentation, host an information booth, or distribute resources. 

Time Commitment: 2-3 hours per event 

Why It Matters: Being visible in your community keeps eye health top of mind and positions optometrists as accessible, knowledge health professionals. 

Government Relations Committee 

Advocate for optometry at the provincial level. 

From seniors’ expos to library fairs, local events are a great way to connect with the public. Let us know if there’s an event in your area that you think the AAO should be a part of. We’d love to collaborate with you to deliver a presentation, host an information booth, or distribute resources. 

The Government Relations Committee (GRC) is a grassroots initiative that connects AAO members with elected officials to educate them about vision health and the role of optometrists in Alberta. Members meet with their local MLAs, share key messages, and help build lasting relationships. 

Time Commitment: 1-2 hours per year, with more opportunities to get involved if desired 

Why It Matters: Ensure the optometry remains visible and influential in health policy discussions. Your voice helps shape legislation, protects patient access and coverage, and promotes the essential role optometrists play in Alberta’s healthcare landscape.