OUR MISSION
Eye Heroes Global, a youth-led nonprofit, established by Joelle Chong, is committed to safeguarding underserved children globally from UV damage and enhancing their literacy skills. The organization achieves this by providing interactive books, UV-blocking sunglasses, reading glasses, crafts, and activities designed to both equip children with necessary tools and educate them on lifelong eye protection. By preventing long-term damage and fostering healthier vision, the organization is making a difference, one child at a time.
How We Make A Difference
We are taking action to protect children worldwide from the invisible yet devastating impact of UV rays a leading cause of preventable eye damage. For 17.8 million children, the difference between falling behind in school and thriving in the classroom begins with something as simple as safe, UV-blocking sunglasses.
We transform eye health education into engaging experiences for children. We achieve this through interactive books, fun stories, and games that make learning about UV protection exciting. We expand our reach by partnering directly with schools, orphanages, churches, and tutoring academies, integrating our program into children's existing learning environments.
Our mission delivers tangible impact beyond mere awareness. We collaborate with vision organizations globally to provide thousands of UV-blocking sunglasses and reading glasses annually. This equips students with essential tools to protect their eyes, improve focus in class, and succeed academically. We also incorporate crafts and hands-on activities to make eye health practical and engaging, helping children understand and practice daily vision protection.
This is not just about eyewear it’s about education, prevention, and change. We are committed to a future where access to books and clear vision unlocks opportunities for every student. We must proactively create this change to ensure no child's potential is limited by poor eyesight in the classroom.
The Global Need
For millions of children, proper eye protection is a game-changer for both their academic future and long-term health. Since a vast majority of lifetime UV damage (around 80%) happens during childhood, safeguarding their eyes early is essential for preventing future vision problems.
The threat is immediate: research shows that early UV-related eye damage is present in nearly a third of younger children (ages 9-11) and a striking majority (81%) of older children (ages 12-15). Providing eye protection now is crucial to prevent serious, lasting vision problems.