Children's Eye Foundation

About Us

Each year more than four million babies are born in the United States. Of these children, approximately one in twenty requires the specialized medical expertise of a pediatric ophthalmologist (Eye M.D.) to avoid permanent loss of vision. Despite the great need, there are currently only a small number of ophthalmologists who have the expertise and specialized training to care for children with eye problems.

Our organization is dedicated not only to bridging this gap and ensuring that all children receive proper medical care, but also to encouraging more physicians to enter the field of pediatric ophthalmology. To assure a future that eliminates preventable blindness in children, we have key programs underway. Please join with us on this magnificently gratifying journey.

History

The Children's Eye Foundation is the official foundation of the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (AAPOS). With approximately 1200 members representing 41 countries, AAPOS is the world's largest physician organization dedicated to children's eye care and adults with strabismus.

The Children's Eye Foundation was originally established in 1970 as the National Children's Eye Care Foundation (NCECF). The late Dr. Marshall Parks, the acknowledged founder of the pediatric ophthalmology discipline, and several of his pediatric ophthalmology colleagues founded it as a not-for-profit 501(c) (3) organization. The stated mission of the NCECF was, "To optimize the quality of life of infants, children and families by fostering normal development and protection of vision through promoting programs of prevention, detection, treatment, research and education."

The NCECF recognized several needs of this fledgling medical specialty of pediatric ophthalmology and, in supporting its mission statement, raised funds to meet some of these needs. Fellowship training programs were growing as the demand for well-trained pediatric ophthalmologists increased; however, funding for fellowship training was either limited or non-existent. The NCECF made loans available that were interest free for many years, and then at very low interest to comply with IRS rules. Fellowship loans totaling $600,000 have been awarded since 1970; however, the need for loans has diminished as other funding sources for training have developed. With the looming of potential changes in the funding of graduate medical education, these loans may become important again. The Children's Eye Foundation is preparing to address this need if necessary.

The funding of research projects, especially pilot projects, was a second need recognized by the founders of the NCECF and was stated in their mission. To date, over one million dollars has been awarded for research projects, and this need continues. Learn more about projects currently being funded by the Children's Eye Foundation.

One of the goals of the Children's Eye Foundation, within the structure of AAPOS, is to serve as an active force in the area of directed, translational research. Working with the Research Committee of AAPOS, research project development will be nurtured and funded. The Foundation welcomes the submission of worthwhile research projects for funding from anyone.