About
Sightsavers USA is the American arm of Sightsavers, an international organization that works to prevent avoidable blindness, fight debilitating diseases, and ensure that everyone — including people with disabilities — can earn, learn, and thrive. Founded in 1950 and now marking more than 75 years of work, Sightsavers operates in over 30 countries across Africa and Asia. In the United States, Sightsavers Inc is a Boston-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN 47-4657747) that supports this global program work.
Mission
Sightsavers works to prevent avoidable blindness, fight disease, and ensure everyone can earn, learn, and thrive, with a strong focus on disability rights and inclusion.
What they do
- Eye care: delivering services such as cataract surgery and correction of refractive error so people can see again or for the first time.
- Fighting neglected tropical diseases: working to eliminate trachoma and river blindness and to treat lymphatic filariasis, intestinal worms, and schistosomiasis.
- Disability inclusion: initiatives that promote the rights of people with disabilities across education, employment, health, and citizenship, including campaign and advocacy work.
- Health system strengthening: training health workers and advocating for stronger, more inclusive health services.
History
Sightsavers was founded in 1950 by Sir John and Lady Jean Wilson to address preventable blindness. The organization recently marked 75 years of operations and has grown into an international network with entities in multiple countries, including the United Kingdom, Ireland, India, and the United States.
Scale and impact
Sightsavers works in more than 30 countries across Africa and Asia. The organization states that 92% of donations fund charitable work directly, with 8% supporting awareness-raising and fundraising.
Financials
Per ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer, for fiscal year 2025 Sightsavers Inc (the U.S. entity) reported total revenue of $12,563,876, total expenses of $12,538,651, and net assets of $251,023. Nearly all of its revenue derives from contributions.
Governance
Sightsavers Inc is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Boston, Massachusetts, and is part of the international Sightsavers network. Per its ProPublica listing, board officers include Adrian Poffley as Chairperson, with Kenneth Moon as Treasurer and Mark Ramsden as Secretary.