The Eyesight Foundation of Alabama

The Eyesight Foundation of Alabama (EIN: 72-1378980) is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to improving eye health through education, research, and access to care. Established in 1997, it has been instrumental in supporting initiatives that combat blinding eye diseases, with a focus on collaboration and community partnership.

Mission and Goals

The foundation's mission is to support activities in eye and vision research, education, and access to care. This is achieved through partnerships with key institutions, such as the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, particularly UAB Callahan Eye Hospital. Together, they strive to advance ophthalmic care, education, and research.

Partnerships and Achievements

The Eyesight Foundation of Alabama collaborates closely with UAB to enhance the department's academic and clinical missions. This partnership has contributed significantly to UAB's rise in the National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding rankings, from 32nd in 2012 to a top-15 position. The foundation supports groundbreaking research and the training of future ophthalmologists through UAB's residency program, which attracts applications worldwide.

Over the years, the foundation has awarded grants totaling over $74 million to more than 30 nonprofit organizations across Alabama. Key beneficiaries include UAB Callahan Eye Hospital and the UAB Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, with contributions totaling $10.7 million and $50 million, respectively. These grants have been instrumental in enhancing eye care services and research across the state.

Background and Establishment

The foundation's beginnings stem from the sale of a specialty eye hospital, now known as UAB Callahan Eye Hospital. Dr. Alston Callahan originally established this hospital to fight blinding eye diseases through pioneering research and exceptional clinical care. The proceeds from the sale helped create an endowment that marked the foundation of the Eyesight Foundation of Alabama.

Impact and Activities

The foundation plays a critical role in connecting children and adults to comprehensive eye care and low vision rehabilitation services, contributing to what has become the nation's best children's eye care program. This is achieved through collaborations with various nonprofit groups, state agencies, and academically-based programs.

Leadership

As of recent developments, Barbara Evers serves as the executive director, bringing a personal connection to the mission through family experiences with eye health challenges and a career background in accounting, including nonprofit management.

Ongoing Initiatives

The foundation remains committed to supporting transformative advancements in eye health. It continues to sponsor significant events like the Prevent Blindness National Summit, underscoring its role as a catalyst for change in both local and national contexts.