About Us

For years the American Optometric Association (AOA) has been supporting charitable efforts relating to eye health and vision care. For this reason alone, it was evident that the AOA should have its own foundation. As optometry’s premier philanthropic and charitable organization, Optometry Cares – The AOA Foundation is the catalyst to making a difference in advancing eye health and the general well-being of the public through its philanthropic activities.

With our strategic ties with the AOA, strong volunteer leadership and generous donors, Optometry Cares is able to manage two community health programs, VISION USA and InfantSEE®, administer Optometry’s Fund for Disaster Relief, provide scholarship grants for educational assistance and maintain the Archives and Museum for the optometric profession.

Established in 2006, Optometry Cares is incorporated as a Not For Profit and is exempt from taxation under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Service. Contributions to Optometry Cares are considered charitable contributions under IRC section 170 and tax deductible as provided by law.

Our mission is to advance eye health, vision care, and general well-being of the public through scientific, educational, charitable, and public service activities of the profession of optometry.