Expand Our Mission

Start a New Chapter

Bring vision care to your local community by establishing an iCare Brighter Future chapter. We provide the tools; you provide the leadership.

Chapter members at a meeting
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Leadership Opportunity

Why Start a Chapter?

Starting an iCare Brighter Future Foundation chapter is a powerful way to create a lasting impact within your community and beyond.

Impactful Service

Enhance access to essential vision care for underserved communities.

Professional Network

Connect with a network of professionals who share a passion for eye health.

Education Growth

Foster opportunities for education and professional growth.

Transform Lives

Transform lives by providing the invaluable gift of clear vision.

Chapter Structure

Types of Chapters

There are several ways to structure an iCare Brighter Future chapter based on your community's needs.

Local Chapters

Community-based chapters serving specific geographic areas, organizing local vision screenings and coordinating volunteer efforts. They are ideal for eye care professionals,community leaders and multi-disciplinary healthcare teams.

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Student Chapters

High school and university student-led groups focusing on education, awareness, and service at their institutions. They are ideal for students , faculty mentors and include student organizations focused on global health.

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International Chapters

Chapters based outside the U.S. that focus on vision care needs in their regions and collaborate globally. Ideal for international eye care professionals and NGOs.

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The Process

How to Start a Chapter

Follow these steps to establish your iCare Brighter Future chapter. We support you through every stage of development.

1

Gather Interested Individuals

Identify at least 5-10 committed individuals who share our vision and are willing to serve as founding members. This should include eye care professionals, community leaders, and other stakeholders.

2

Submit an Interest Form

Complete our chapter interest form to express your intention to start a chapter. Our team will review your submission and contact you to discuss next steps.

3

Develop a Chapter Plan

Work with our Chapter Development Coordinator to create a comprehensive plan that outlines your chapter's goals, structure, and initial activities.

4

Complete the Application Process

Submit the official chapter application, which includes your chapter bylaws, leadership structure, and initial membership roster. Our board will review your application for approval.

5

Receive Chapter Charter

Once approved, your chapter will receive its official charter and access to resources, training, and support from the national organization.

6

Launch Your Chapter

Host a kickoff event to introduce your chapter to the community and begin implementing your initial activities and programs.

Support & Tools

Chapter Resources

We provide comprehensive support and ready-to-use materials to help your chapter succeed from day one.

Chapter Handbook

Comprehensive guide with policies, procedures, and best practices for running a successful chapter.

Leadership Training

Regular training sessions for chapter leaders on recruitment, program development, and governance.

Templates & Materials

Ready-to-use templates for bylaws, meeting agendas, promotional materials, and more.

Mentor Support

Connection with experienced chapter leaders who can provide guidance and advice.

Start the Journey

Chapter Interest Form

Complete this form to start the process of establishing a new iCare Brighter Future chapter. Takes about 5 minutes.

Please select a type of chapter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions about starting a chapter.

We recommend having at least 5-10 committed founding members to establish a strong foundation for your chapter. This includes a mix of eye care professionals, community leaders, and other stakeholders who are passionate about our mission.

No, there is no fee to start a new chapter.

The process typically takes 2-3 months from initial interest to official chapter approval. This timeline allows for thorough planning, membership recruitment, and the development of chapter bylaws and leadership structure.

While having eye care professionals involved is beneficial, it's not required for all leadership positions. Chapters benefit from diverse skills including administration, fundraising, community outreach, and event planning. We recommend having at least one eye care professional as a chapter advisor.

Chapters are required to maintain a minimum membership of 5 active members, hold regular meetings (at least quarterly), conduct at least one vision care activity annually, submit annual reports, and participate in national organization initiatives when possible.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Join our global network of chapters bringing vision care to communities in need. Take the first step today.