FAQ

HOW LONG ARE THE TRIPS?

Most missions last 7-10 days, longer for more distant locations. A typical 7-8 day trip would include four days of work, two days of travel and one to two days of R&R.

WHO FUNDS THE TRIPS?

We all pay our own expenses including air fare, lodging, food and entertainment. However, VOSH is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and many expenses incurred on a VOSH mission are deductible.

CAN STAFF MEMBERS OR FAMILY GO?

Yes, staff and lay people can also participate, depending on how many spaces are available after getting enough optometrists. The clinic days are generally very busy, and there is steady work for all team members.

WHAT EQUIPMENT DO I NEED TO BRING ALONG?

All you need is your hand equipment – scopes, lens bars or trial lens sets, and extra batteries. VOSH supplies a hand held autorefractor to aid in exams.

I COLLECT GLASSES IN THE OFFICE. WHERE SHOULD I SEND THEM?

We are temporarily not accepting raw stock glasses at this time due to space constraints.  Sorted and neutralized glasses can be sent to or dropped off at Blaine Eye Clinic 12170 Aberdeen St NE Blaine, MN 55449 or PineCone Vision Center 2180 Troop Drive Sartell, MN 56377. We usually have a booth at the Minnesota Optometric Association Winter and Fall Continuing Education conferences so sorted/neutralized glasses can also be dropped off there.