ASCRS Foundation
About the ASCRS Foundation
The ASCRS Foundation is one of the three key pillars of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS). This philanthropic effort is focused on eradicating preventable blindness by educating, providing resources, and empowering the ophthalmic community to provide humanitarian ophthalmic surgery and care, both domestically and abroad.
We maximize the benefits of modern ophthalmology, working towards treating thousands of patients in need every year.
Learn more about our leading initiative Operation Sight - a cataract eye surgery program serving financially vulnerable, uninsured Americans who cannot afford or access care.
How Ophthalmologists Can Give Back—Even Without Extra Time or Money
For many ophthalmologists, the desire to give back is real—but so are the demands of a full clinic schedule, surgical days, family responsibilities, and limited time.
In this video, Zaina Al-Mohtaseb, MD, Chair of the ASCRS Foundation, shares a practical and encouraging message: giving back does not always require a major time commitment or financial contribution. Sometimes, it starts with awareness, connection, mentorship, advocacy, or simply helping identify opportunities where ophthalmologists can make a meaningful difference.
Through the ASCRS community, physicians have many ways to support patients, colleagues, and the future of ophthalmology. Whether through service, education, volunteer efforts, charitable programs, or sharing expertise, every contribution helps expand access to care and strengthen the profession.
Watch the video to hear Dr. Al-Mohtaseb’s perspective on how ophthalmologists can find meaningful ways to give back no matter where they are in their careers or how much time they have to spare.
Announcing the Exclusive ASCRS Foundation Lindstrom Legacy Gift Club
I invite you to join me in bolstering the ASCRS Foundation and becoming a founding member of the ASCRS Foundation Lindstrom Legacy Gift Club.
ASCRS Foundation Vision and Mission
Vision
We envision the eradication of preventable blindness leading to full, healthy, and more productive lives for patients in need.
Mission
We educate, provide resources, and empower the ophthalmic community to serve and deliver humanitarian ophthalmic surgery and care in the US and internationally.
Your Gift Today will Change Lives!
“With failing eyesight, my job was coming to an end and so was my ability to drive. Because of Operation Sight, I can see, work a substantial job and drive with confidence, even at night! I could not have been blessed with a better program and group of people! Thank you for changing my life!” Bruce, Operation Sight Patient
Stories like Bruce’s are received every day through Operation Sight, the ASCRS Foundation's US based charitable cataract surgery program. The enormous power of the gift of sight has ripple effects for individuals and their communities.
