Snapshot Interview:
Kelly Scherer, OD

Get inspired and learn a little bit more about your fellow VOSH-Illinois volunteers.

This month we are talking to Dr. Kelly Scherer,

Your New President of VOSH-Illinois!

Dr. Kelly Scherer has been a dedicated member of VOSH-IL since 2019, actively volunteering in local clinics and serving on the board since 2020. Through her passion for service and travel, she has also participated in three international eye care missions. A graduate of Wake Forest University and the New England College of Optometry, Dr. Scherer currently serves as the Director of Clinical Services at The Chicago Lighthouse, where she practices low vision optometry. In addition to her work with VOSH-IL, she serves on the Associate Board for CommunityHealth, a free health clinic in Chicago. Dr. Scherer is deeply committed to advancing health equity and eliminating preventable blindness through advocacy and community-focused care. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, practicing yoga, and spending time with her family and her dog. 

“The biggest lesson I’ve learned [through VOSH] – one that is reinforced at every clinic – is the power of community.”

What motivated you to initially become involved in VOSH-Illinois?

Giving back has always been a core value of mine, and community health has been central to my career. During my training at the New England College of Optometry, I gained invaluable clinical exposure to diverse communities through the Massachusetts FQHC network, the Veterans Administration, and international eye care missions. After completing my residency and moving to Chicago, I wanted to continue using my professional skills to serve my community. Dr. Tracy Matchinski, a colleague and former VOSH-IL president, introduced me to VOSH-IL after we connected over our shared passion for volunteerism in optometry.

How long have you been active in VOSH INT and what has motivated you to stay involved all these years?

I began volunteering with VOSH-IL in 2019 and joined the Board of Directors in 2020. My dedication to the organization has only grown over time as I’ve seen the tangible impact of our work. The ability to help deliver eye care to those who need it most and witness the transformative difference it makes is inspiring. I truly believe in VOSH International’s mission, and I’m comitted to supporting and advancing it in every way I can.

What have you learned from being involved in VOSH-Illinois?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned – one that is reinforced at every clinic – is the power of community. It takes an incredible team effort to organize and execute the large-scale clinics we host. From our dedicated VOSH-IL volunteers and doctors to SVOSH students, community partners, and location hosts, every single person plays a vital role. This collective effort is what allows us to deliver meaningful care and lasting impact.

What advice would you give to student ODs who are interested in being involved with VOSH-Illinois?

Volunteering with VOSH-IL is an incredible way to gain clinical experience with diverse populations while honing your adaptability. Participating in VOSH-IL has made me a better provider, and it can do the same for you. As optometrists, we have a duty to care for all individuals, and VOSH-IL provides a platform to fulfill that responsibility. Plus, you’ll join a network of generous, compassionate professionals who share your commitment to service.

Tell us a bit about your mission trip clinic(s)? What are the biggest challenges and rewards of participating in VOSH clinics?

Since joining VOSH, I’ve had the privilege of volunteering at approximately 10 clinics serving our local community. Providing care outside of a traditional clinic setting comes with unique challenges, such as adapting to limited resources and finding creative solutions to meet patient needs. However, these challenges are outweighed by the rewards of connecting with and serving our community. Each clinic is an opportunity to make a direct and positive impact, which is incredibly fulfilling.

What have been your greatest accomplishments in VOSH-Illinois or as an optometrist in general?

One of my greatest accomplishments has been improving access to eye care for underserved populations, including through VOSH-IL initiatives. Creating opportunities for optometry students to engage with underserved communities has been equally rewarding. The hands-on exposure I received as a student helped shape my career and dedication to service, and I feel privileged to pass that on to future optometrists. Watching students grow in clinical confidence and compassion has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my work.

What have been the biggest changes in VOSH-IL since you first became involved?

The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped the landscape of international mission work, with travel restrictions and shifting global health priorities. In response, VOSH-IL expanded its focus on serving communities here in Illinois, partnering with local organizations to bring charitable eye care services to uninsured and underinsured populations. This shift has deepened our relationships with other nonprofits and strengthened our ability to deliver impactful services together.

As president, What do you see as VOSH-IL accomplishments and goals in the next 5 years?

In the next five years, I envision VOSH-IL continuing to expand its reach by building stronger community partnerships and increasing access to care for vulnerable populations. I also see potential for engaging more students and early-career optometrists, fostering a new generation of volunteers who are passionate about service and equity in eye care.

What else do you do other than VOSH related activities? What do you do in your spare time? What do you do for fun?

I am the Director of Clinical Services at The Chicago Lighthouse, a social service agency dedicated to supporting the blind, visually impaired, disabled, and veteran communities.  In my free time I enjoy traveling, practicing yoga and spending time with my family and my miniature Australian Shepherd.