In episode 178 of the Disruptors for GOOD podcast, I speak with Dr. Jordan Kassalow, founder of VisionSpring, on his journey to bring millions of people around the world access to eyecare.
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About Dr. Jordan Kassalow
Dr. Jordan Kassalow has an amazing career in social entrepreneurship and eye care advocacy. He co-founded EYElliance, a coalition working towards improving access to eyeglasses globally, and launched the Global Health Policy Program at the Council on Foreign Relations.
Prior to this, he served as director of the River Blindness Division at Helen Keller International.
Jordan is a fellow of Draper Richards Kaplan, Skoll, Ashoka, and the Aspen Institute. He has received numerous awards for his contributions to social entrepreneurship, including being named to Forbes’ Impact 30 list, winning the inaugural John P. McNulty Prize, and receiving the Schwab Foundation Social Entrepreneurship award.
In addition to his social entrepreneurship work, Jordan is a partner at Drs. Farkas, Kassalow, Resnick & Associates, an ophthalmology practice located in New York City.
Jordan holds a Doctor of Optometry degree from the New England College of Optometry and a Master of Public Health degree and fellowship in preventive ophthalmology from Johns Hopkins University.
About VisionSpring
Imagine not being able to see clearly enough to read a book, drive a car, or even recognize the faces of your loved ones. For millions of people living in underserved communities around the world, this is a reality.
Poor vision not only affects a person’s daily activities but can also impact their ability to work and support themselves and their families.
This is where VisionSpring comes in. VisionSpring is a nonprofit organization that aims to increase access to affordable eyewear and eye care services for people living in low-income communities.
In addition to providing eyewear, VisionSpring also conducts research and advocates for policies that promote vision health and increase access to eyewear and eye care services.
The organization has partnered with governments, nonprofits, and businesses to implement vision screening programs and provide eyeglasses to schoolchildren, improving their academic performance and future opportunities.
VisionSpring’s impact goes beyond providing eyewear and eye care services. By empowering local entrepreneurs and advocating for better vision health policies, the organization is contributing to sustainable development and poverty reduction in low-income communities.
With its innovative approach and unwavering commitment to its mission, VisionSpring is making a difference in the lives of millions of people around the world.
If you’re interested in supporting VisionSpring’s mission, there are several ways you can get involved. You can make a donation on their website, volunteer your time and skills, or even start your own fundraising campaign.
With your support, VisionSpring can continue to bring sight to the underserved and improve the lives of millions of people.
