With clear eyes, Abdu can do anything!

"Kids" and "cataracts" aren't two words one hears very often in the same sentence. For one thing, the young person having the vision difficulty might not make that much of it, assuming everyone sees objects surrounded by a big fuzzy blur. They may be shy about bringing it up, or a little freaked out that they can't see the front of the classroom or aren't as adept at sports as they'd like to be.

Today, there are an estimated 476 million indigenous peoples worldwide, speaking 4,000 of the world's languages. No two communities are the same, and neither are their eye care needs. In the U.S. and around the world, Seva partners directly with indigenous communities to co-create eye care interventions. Indigenous partners lead conversations, sharing their knowledge, experiences, lived realities, and challenges in accessing eye care. Together, we collaborate on solutions that lead to culturally competent and lasting eye care programs.

Glasses. Chances are better than 50% that you, dear reader, rely on something to correct your refractive error (near- or far-sightedness) like contacts, prescription glasses, or readers. You may even have a few pairs stashed in your car, office, or workshop. But in low- and middle-income countries, refractive error is the leading cause of vision impairment in both kids and adults, and glasses aren't so accessible.

A new Seva project in India will target babies' and children's needs; specifically, children's need for eyeglasses (correcting quality refractive error), and treating Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) in babies.

School-aged students will receive complete eye checkups, prescriptions, and a selection of stylish frames at their local Vision Centers. To ensure ongoing eye care there will be staff dedicated to vision monitoring and follow-up visits, as well as training a team of teachers and youth ambassadors.

This past June, we wished Seva "original" Suzanne Gilbert a fulfilling retirement. As Senior Director of Research and Strategic Opportunities, Suzanne led Seva's efforts to bring good science and research to the work she supported for over 47 years. Suzanne's legacy of commitment to teaching and innovating local communities through training for excellence has been pivotal in the expansion of eye care systems now spanning the globe.

Carole Blank Shares the Love

Glasses have been part of Carole Blank's life since she was a kid. So imagine her delight, make that astonishment, when a cataract surgery gave her 20/20 vision in one eye.

These young activists are eager to make the world a better place. From stories to rap to athletic endeavors, these projects reflect the talent and compassion of their creators.

Looking for other ways to strengthen Seva before the end-of-year? Many Seva supporters have made tax-smart gifts to support our work today while supporting their finances for tomorrow.

You can join them here.