For seven years, Marion McInturff has returned to El Salvador with Eye Care International, usually found at Station 3—Near Vision Acuity. It’s where she greets patients with a smile and a handshake, and where their stories begin to unfold.
“These aren’t the soft hands of suburban Americans,” Marion says. “They’re rough and calloused—hands that work in fields and kitchens all day.” She meets people who have spent years under the intense Salvadoran sun or in smoke-filled homes, now struggling to read the one book they treasure most: their Bible. “They come humbly and gratefully, excited by the chance to see better. It’s such a privilege to interact with these beautiful people.”
But it’s not just the patients that bring her back year after year. It’s the camaraderie. “Despite the long days and heat, we work together with a ‘we’re in this together’ mentality. Our interactions are built on courtesy and respect.” For Marion, volunteering with Eye Care International feels a bit like the world’s toughest, most rewarding summer camp—a place of purpose, connection, and joy.

It’s hard to describe the full impact of an Eye Care mission. Yes, it changes the lives of patients—but it transforms the volunteers, too.
Each morning, we arrive to long lines of people waiting patiently in the sun. Some have traveled for hours from remote mountain villages—by foot, by pickup truck, or packed into crowded buses. Despite the hardship, they greet us with smiles, gratitude, and kindness.

Most will spend the entire day waiting to be seen—evaluated, examined, and either fitted for glasses or scheduled for surgery. Many are elderly, worn by a lifetime of labor. And yet, there’s beauty in what we witness. Young people helping the old. Like the 8-year-old boy who gently guided his limping grandmother from station to station, holding her hand, calmly explaining what to do next.

No one complains. Instead, we’re met with hugs, blessings, and heartfelt thanks. But truly, we are the grateful ones—for the chance to serve, and for the way these missions renew our faith in the good of humanity.

Volunteering with Eye Care International has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life," says Anna Klee. What began as an opportunity to serve quickly became something much deeper—a spiritual, humbling, and fulfilling journey.
Working side by side with a dedicated team, Anna helped bring essential eye care to people across El Salvador. "Knowing we were making a real difference in someone’s life brought a sense of purpose that’s hard to describe."
But it wasn’t just about the medical work. For Anna, the real beauty was in the human connections—"meeting incredible people, building lasting friendships with fellow volunteers, and sharing unforgettable moments with the local community."
She’s grateful for the chance to be part of Eye Care International’s mission and looks forward to serving again. "Wherever I’m needed—I’ll go.

Volunteering with Eye Care International was a truly wonderful experience. I’m deeply grateful to have worked alongside a team that genuinely cares for our people,” Henry said. “Every day, I saw how much the volunteers tried to connect with patients and learn about our culture—it wasn’t just about providing care, it was about building relationships.

“Together, we helped more than 500 people a day, working hard and working smart. I was especially impressed by how organized the team was, efficiently dividing stations and keeping everything moving smoothly.

“If the opportunity comes again, I’d be honored to work with Eye Care International in the future” he adds with a smile. “You are always welcome in El Salvador.

When Eye Care International came to Santa Rosa, El Salvador, and announced they were looking for English learners to interpret in the medical field, I didn’t hesitate—I said yes immediately,” Miguel said. “It was my first real experience interpreting, and from that moment, I knew what I wanted to do with my life: become a medical interpreter. Helping others get the care they need filled me with a joy I can’t fully explain.”
Miguel continues, “I’m incredibly thankful to the doctors, nurses, team leaders, and all the volunteers. Without them, none of this would’ve been possible. Thank you to the entire Eye Care International team for the life-changing work you do for those in need. I truly hope the organization continues to grow and reach even more people around the world."

Hard work and social connections were also valuable to Miguel. “One of the highlights of my experience was sharing meals with team members and learning about their lives and cultures,” he said. “It gave me hope. Despite how busy they are, they still make time to serve—and that showed me just how much good still exists in the world."

"Volunteering with Eye Care International has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life," says Omar Rubio. Since 2006, he’s served many times—four in his hometown of Santa Rosa de Lima, and once in Perquín.
Whether interpreting, assisting in surgery, or helping patients receive glasses, Omar finds joy in every task. "Seeing the happy face of an older adult or child whose vision greatly improved is inexplicably satisfying."

What makes it even more meaningful is serving his own community. Omar’s pride and gratitude are clear: "My infinite thanks to the entire Eye Care International team for our friendships."

He hopes to continue volunteering in future campaigns—and hopes others will be inspired to join him in making a difference, right where it matters most.