When 16-year-old Nikhil Srivalsan put on his first pair of glasses two years ago, his mind filled with memories of a family trip to India, where he noticed many seniors were affected with cataracts.
He was shocked to learn that India has one of the world’s largest blind populations, including children, and more than half of it was preventable. Nikhil realized how fortunate he was to be living in a country like Canada.
Inspired to help make eye care more accessible globally, Nikhil hosted an online fundraiser through Canada Helps and hopes other young philanthropists will do the same.
“I was scared initially, thinking I wouldn’t see community support, but I never let the passion fueling me die out,” he explains.
With support from friends, family and the greater community, Nikhil raised $2,164 to provide quality eye health care for underserved communities in South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa.
“I’m grateful to the generous donors who took time to learn about Operation Eyesight and who graciously contributed to the cause.”
Nikhil says he encourages others to consider hosting fundraisers to benefit those who need it most.
“My advice to others is to remember that it sometimes takes stepping out of your comfort zone to reach your personal goals,” he says. “Hosting this fundraiser required me to do exactly that and was one of the most gratifying experiences of my life.”
To learn more about hosting a community fundraiser, please connect with Leanna Smashnuk at SmashnukL@operationeyesight.com.
