TOMS Blog

Since 2002, Visualiza Eye Care Center, has provided high-quality eye care to people in Guatemala City and beyond.  In 2005, the then-private clinic expanded to offer public services for local people in need.  The evolution of Visualiza’s services meant they could access to eye care at an affordable rate; their fees were subsidized by Visualiza’s private side. 

This model, like the One for One model, marked a shift in how services could be provided, made possible by the purchasing power of individuals.


Visualiza’s method of operations marked a first in Latin America. Despite the many critics, Dr. Mariano and his staff have successfully run the social and private clinic at the same time, providing the same quality of service to each patient, for 7 years now…and the reward continues to build upon itself.

“When you [help give sight], you help the family and you help the community,” Dr. Marino shared. “The impact that we can have on people’s lives is humongous.”

Dr. Mariano explains that there are nearly 100,000 people in Guatemala who need eye surgery, but reaching them and ensuring they receive treatment is difficult. When the Giving side of One for One, made possible by TOMS Eyewear, reached Visualiza, Dr. Mariano was thrilled.  Through TOMS Eyewear, customers have helped the folks at this clinic reach deeper into local communities to find those in need of care, who were unaware of the help available, or unable to afford it. 

“TOMS helps us to reach more [people]… when you see a little kid that you operate [on] you give him sight back again then you realize that you’re doing something really good.  Because now this kid probably will grow and will be able to learn to go to school to be someone in his life.  It’s really fantastic.”

For more on how we’re working with Visualiza Eye Care Center to reach people in need of medical treatment, cataract surgery or prescription glasses, stay tuned here on the blog…

To help TOMS Giving Partners give sight to people in need One for One, shop TOMS Eyewear…