VOSH/California was established in 1988 by five optometrists, Dr. Greg Pearl, Dr. David Krasnow, Dr. Barry Leonard, Dr. Neil Mietus and Dr. David Eldridge. Together they decided to join the VOSH International network of OD’s providing eye care services to needy populations around the world. Since the first trip to Costa Rica in 1989, VOSH/Cal has conducted over 50 missions to 14 countries and provided services to over 300,000 patients.
VOSH/Cal has donated over $11.0 million in medicine, equipment, supplies and services to countries in Central and South America and Asia. In addition, VOSH/CA has worked diligently to incorporate student VOSH chapters in its programs. Participating schools include SUNY College of Optometry, SCCO, Indiana University College of Optometry, Western University College of Optometry, Illinois College of Optometry, Midwestern College of Optometry< Xochicalco College of Optometry, National University of Nicaragua College of Optometry.
