Executive Summary
Worldwide, 285 million people are blind or have debilitating visual impairment. Yet, solutions exist to cure or prevent 80 percent of their conditions.
Seva Foundation proposes to scale up our proven Global Sight Initiative (GSI) eye care delivery model nationally in Guatemala and create the platform to extend the effort throughout Latin America. Near the end of the 10-year project period, we will lay the groundwork to expand to Mexico and Paraguay. Our project will incorporate an innovative digital data component that will accelerate and demonstrate impact.
Guatemala, population of 17 million, is small enough to end preventable blindness. Its primary healthcare system structure is the same or similar to others in the region, as are its challenges. Our local partner of 13 years, Visualiza, is poised to expand its current operation, a GSI model, into a national nonprofit eye care system.
Regaining their sight, marginalized people will reclaim their independence, economic productivity, and human dignity.
Charity, fund, non-governmental organization, religious institution, school, or other entity
Organizations may provide budget and employee data based on this proposal or the organization as a whole. For more information on this proposal or organization, please email us.
Accomplishments
In the fiscal year 2020, Seva was able to accomplish much, despite COVID-19. Through the Global Sight Initiative network, 2,873,427 people received eye care services, including 6,905 children who underwent sight-saving surgery.
Additional highlights include:
· Seva launched a novel research skill-building program called Operations Research Capacity Building 2020, successfully pivoting from an in-person model to online workshops and coaching sessions. The result is a robust pilot program that enables Seva partners to conduct practical research and create innovative eye care solutions.
· The organization also added eight partner organizations to its growing international network, expanding its impact globally.
· Seva renewed its commitment to helping historically underserved Native American communities in the United States, partnering with six new organizations ranging from Alaska to Wisconsin, and Michigan to Oklahoma.
· The International Association of Blindness recognized 10 Seva team members and partners with the Vision Excellence Award.
For more information, please see our 2020 annual report.
