Helen Keller International

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Helen Keller International

Formation	1915
Founder	George Kessler and Helen Keller
Type	Non-profit organization
Headquarters	New York City, United States
Region served	Global
President and CEO	Kathy Spahn

Helen Keller International (HKI) is an international non-profit organization dedicated to combating the causes and consequences of blindness, malnutrition, and poor health. Founded in 1915 by George Kessler and Helen Keller, the organization is headquartered in New York City and operates programs in countries around the world.

History

Helen Keller International was established in 1915 by George Kessler, a wealthy New York merchant, and Helen Keller, a renowned author and advocate for people with disabilities. The organization was initially focused on providing services to soldiers blinded during World War I. Over time, HKI expanded its mission to address the broader issues of blindness and malnutrition.

Mission and Vision

The mission of Helen Keller International is to save the sight and lives of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged. The organization envisions a world where no one suffers from preventable or treatable blindness or malnutrition.

Programs and Initiatives

Helen Keller International implements a variety of programs aimed at improving health and nutrition, including:

• **Vitamin A Supplementation**: Providing essential vitamin A to children to prevent blindness and boost immune systems.
• **Eye Health**: Offering eye care services, including surgeries and distribution of eyeglasses, to prevent and treat blindness.
• **Nutrition**: Implementing programs to combat malnutrition, including the promotion of breastfeeding and the distribution of micronutrient powders.
• **Neglected Tropical Diseases**: Working to eliminate diseases such as trachoma and river blindness through mass drug administration and health education.

Global Reach

Helen Keller International operates in numerous countries across Africa, Asia, and the Americas. The organization collaborates with local governments, non-governmental organizations, and communities to implement its programs effectively.

Leadership

The current President and CEO of Helen Keller International is Kathy Spahn. Under her leadership, the organization continues to expand its reach and impact.

See also

• Helen Keller
• Blindness
• Malnutrition
• Non-profit organization

Related Pages

• Helen Keller
• George Kessler
• Blindness
• Malnutrition
• Non-profit organization