Sharyn H., Mill Bay, B.C. - Bookkeeper

"A pair of glasses and compassion in exchange for smiles, hugs, and genuine appreciation —  priceless!

From a volunteer's perspective completing my first TWECS mission to Ecuador, I found the rewards I received far outweighed what I gave to the project.  Already I am looking forward to my next adventure with TWECS."

Sharyn showing off carved bird and thank you postcard we received as gifts after Macas clinics.

Doug H., Mill Bay, B.C. - Animal Nutritionist

"There are few adventures in life which match the fulfillment of a TWECS project. Imagine a 76-year-old lady whose daily sanctuary was reading a tattered and old bible but whose sight ad left her two years previous. With her new glasses she regains limited visibility but is able to read her beloved book.  Tears flow down her cheeks — that is TWECS."

Doug, who conducted visual acuities, poses with Vicky, one of the many translators we depended on.

Austin B., Vancouver, B.C. - Marketing / Sales

"Seven clinical days and thousands of patients later, our TWECS mission comes to a close. We depart with our optical luggage lighter and a feeling of accomplishment in our hearts. Ecuador has been a humbling experience and a good reminder that there are many things back home I take for granted. Despite the language barriers, receiving a smile and a hug after dispensing a set of glasses gave me that warm feeling, when you know you've made a difference for someone. And that feeling itself made the whole trip worth it!"

Austin, at the visual acuity station, explaining instructions to a school girl. 

Brenda J., Prince George, B.C. - Optician / Business Owner

"Traveling to Ecuador with the TWECS team has been such an eye-opening experience.  I knew before coming that there were many people in need but never knew how it could impact their lives and mine.  The appreciation and gratitude was overwhelming at times, even with the language barrier.  So many smiles , hugs, and handshakes — such a worthwhile cause.  I will forever remember this experience and all the people I shared it with."

Brenda with an appreciative and happy patient.

Katie S., Whistler, B.C. - Optician / Optical Manager

"TWEECS allowed me to apply my knowledge to another country.  It was not only rewarding for the people  I dispensed glasses to, but for myself it was so humbling to see the smiles and tears when the locals received their first-ever glasses.  This was a great opportunity to meet like minded professionals, improve my Spanish, and travel safely to a new country.  Marina and Derrick are an inspiration to everyone that we can make a difference!"

Katie with two beautiful and deserving children with first-time and necessary eyeglasses.

Doreen E., Vancouver, B.C. - Traveller

"This trip to Ecuador was so interesting as we travelled to three different communities over vast distances.  While registering one lady, who couldn't speak, she took the ring off her finger and gave it to me.  What a precious moment!  Meeting the Quichua people, who gave us hugs, was very rewarding.  My thanks to Marina for her vision and persistence and staying true to her grandmother's wishes of helping the poor and under-privileged."

Doreen still smiling after taking hundreds of registrations.

Tim K., Terrace, B.C. - Piano Technician

"I've had the most personally fulfilling and rewarding ten days since my last TWECS mission five years ago.  We visited rural communities in three distinct geographic regions of Ecuador and met kind and grateful people everywhere.  We were able to help children who had never clearly seen their mother's faces and crafts people who could no longer see to earn their livelihoods.   There are a lot of sad stories too, but it feels great to help those that we can."

Tim using the auto refractor to assist optometrists.