VISION HEALTH INTERNATIONAL

Bringing high-quality eye care to underserved communities around the world

OUR VISION

A world with accessible eye care

We serve under-resourced communities with increased access to high-quality eye care.

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF VHI

OUR IMPACT

100+

FIELD PROGRAMS

50,000+

EYE EXAMINATIONS

7,000+

LIFE-ALTERING OPERATIONS

40,000

EYE GLASSES & PROTECTIVE EYEWEAR

Partnered with 40 communities worldwide to build local capacity

ABOUT VHI

Strong community partnerships and building local capacity for eye care are at the core of our work.

We recruit volunteer ophthalmologists, other professional vision healthcare providers, and general volunteer support to participate in field programs bringing high-quality, direct patient vision care to communities abroad and in the U.S. We partner with at least one local organization for each field program; from local clinicians or physicians, to governmental agencies, to nonprofit organizations. We return to most program sites annually, enabling us to establish long-lasting relationships and build capacity for local eye care on an ongoing basis.

HOW WE WORK

Capacity Building

Capacity building is central to our mission. We strengthen community partnerships with clinics and organizations worldwide by donating medical supplies and technology, providing surgical training, pre- and post-operative care, specialized instruction, and patient exams. Since 2020, the expanded Kay Whitten Scholarship Fund has further supported eye care professionals in under-resourced countries, advancing local capacity to treat patients in need.

International Field Programs

Each year, we organize week-long programs worldwide, bringing together volunteers and vision care professionals to deliver essential eye care in underserved communities. Our services range from comprehensive exams and surgeries to prosthetic eyes and eyeglasses. Partnering with local clinicians and organizations, we provide logistical support, clinic space, and patient recruitment to ensure lasting impact.

United States Field Programs

We host one- or two-day pop-up eye clinics in under-resourced U.S. communities, partnering with local organizations and clinics to reach patients in need. Our team provides comprehensive exams, prescription eyeglasses, and referrals for necessary ophthalmic care.

Sponsorship of Surgical Care

VHI funds critical surgeries for patients at partner clinics, ensuring that those most in need receive essential eye care even when our volunteer teams are not on site.