I'm excited to be writing to you as the new Executive Director of The Vision of Children Foundation. Since I joined the organization in November, I've been inspired and energized by the team's passion and commitment to the Foundation's vision. We spent the end of 2014 planning for an impactful and engaging 2015, and we have hit the ground running with several exciting programs, which you will hear more about over the coming months.  

During my 12-year tenure in the non-profit sector, specializing in leading strategic initiatives and innovative solutions to scale impact, I have had the pleasure of working at a variety of wonderful organizations in San Diego and New York City. Most recently, I was the Director of Strategic Partnerships at Kids Included Together (KIT), a national non-profit dedicated to helping organizations include kids with disabilities. I led KIT's philanthropic and business development initiatives designed to scale the organization's impact on a national level. During my 2+ years at KIT, philanthropic income was increased by 98% and the organization expanded operations to the east coast by opening an office in Washington, D.C.

I'm delighted to bring my diverse non-profit experience to The Vision of Children Foundation at this significant time in the organization's history. Thanks to your support, our founders, Sam and Vivian Hardage, have worked tirelessly to make fundamental progress over the last 23 years. We're getting close to achieving some major research breakthroughs to change the lives of visually impaired children. I'm excited to be a part of the team that is dedicated to giving all children the gift of clear vision!

Feel free to call 858.314.7917 or email krista@visionofchildren.org to chat - or stop by our headquarters in San Diego any time. 

I look forward to meeting you soon and working together to reach our goals!

Krista Berry Ortega, MS
Executive Director