Eye Foundation of America to Host Landmark Fundraiser on April 18, 2026 | Every Dollar Raised to Be Matched for Double Impact
Our Bureau
New Jersey
The Eye Foundation of America (EFA), a global leader in pediatric eye care and blindness prevention, will host a prestigious Charity Gala on April 18, 2026, in New Jersey, USA, bringing together philanthropists, healthcare leaders, and global changemakers to advance the mission of eliminating childhood blindness.
Serving children since 1977, EFA has been at the forefront of restoring sight and transforming lives across continents. This landmark fundraiser, led by the EFA Board Members, aims to scale high-impact initiatives in India—particularly the expansion of the Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) program and the development of the new Goutami Eye Institute building, a state-of-the-art facility designed to serve thousands of vulnerable children.
A defining highlight of the evening is EFA’s powerful commitment:
Every dollar raised will be matched—doubling the impact and accelerating the journey toward a world without childhood blindness.
The initiative is strengthened by strategic partnerships with Rotary International and Lions Clubs International Foundation, two of the world’s most respected service organizations, further amplifying reach, credibility, and global impact.
Voices of Leadership
Dr. Leela Raju MD, President, Eye Foundation of America, said:
“For nearly five decades, EFA has stood for one unwavering belief—that no child should suffer blindness due to preventable or treatable conditions. This gala is not just a fundraiser; it is a movement. With every contribution matched, we are not just raising funds—we are multiplying hope, impact, and the future of thousands of children.”
Sam Maddali RPh, Board Member, Eye Foundation of America, added:
“The expansion of the Goutami Eye Institute and the scaling of the ROP program represent a critical leap forward. Premature babies deserve a fair chance at life—and vision is central to that future. Together with our partners and donors, we are building systems that will save sight for generations.”
Dr. Sam Maddula PharmD, Board Member, Eye Foundation of America, emphasized:
“This mission is deeply personal and profoundly global. From one child to millions, the ripple effect of restoring sight is transformational—impacting education, livelihoods, and dignity. With the support of Rotary, Lions, and our global community, we are closer than ever to making a world without childhood blindness a reality.”
Dr. V. K. Raju MD, Founder President, Eye Foundation of America and Chairman, Goutami Eye Institute, said:
“For nearly five decades, our mission has remained clear—to ensure that no child in this world is denied the gift of sight. Since 1977, we have worked tirelessly across India, Africa, and more than 25 countries, building systems of care, training professionals, and reaching the most underserved communities. This fundraiser is not just about infrastructure or programs—it is about sustaining a global movement of compassion, commitment, and collective action. The new Goutami facility and the expansion of the ROP program represent our next leap forward. With the support of our partners and donors, I firmly believe that a world without childhood blindness is not just a vision—it is within our reach.”
A Call to Global Action
The Charity Gala is both a celebration of EFA’s 49-year legacy of service and a call to action for individuals, institutions, and corporations to be part of a historic movement.
With matched giving, strong global partnerships, and a clear vision for scale, this initiative represents one of the most impactful opportunities to contribute to public health, child development, and global equity.
Together, we can ensure that every child has the gift of sight—and the chance to dream, learn, and thrive.
About Eye Foundation of America (EFA)
The Eye Foundation of America is a global nonprofit dedicated to eliminating preventable blindness, with a strong focus on pediatric eye care. Since 1977, EFA has transformed millions of lives through surgeries, screenings, and capacity-building programs across India, Africa, and beyond.
