Frequently asked questions
What is Vision Research Foundation?
Vision Research Foundation (VRF) is a registered charitable trust CC59798, established by a generous donation from a New Zealand philanthropist. VRF empowers bright researchers to transform human health through bold, paradigm-shifting discoveries in vision science.
What is a charitable trust?
A charitable trust is an organisation that holds and protects assets (money, property etc) for charitable purposes. The trust’s assets are managed according to the purpose set out in a trust deed, or an agreed set of rules.
What is Vision Research Foundation’s mission statement?
Our purpose is to transform lives by supporting bold, cross-sectoral vision research that disrupts current paradigms, improves human health and empowers under-served communities.
What makes Vision Research Foundation different?
New Zealand researchers are significantly underfunded compared to other similar OECD countries such as Australia, UK, Canada and the US, with less than 8% of all research grant applications being funded. We are establishing a collaborative, multi-disciplinary network of researchers who are committed to translational and impactful research. The emphasis is on building a strong and dynamic vision research environment focusing on supporting bright minds to stay in New Zealand.
Who set up Vision Research Foundation?
VRF was set up by Prof. Helen Danesh-Meyer, who is our Board Chair and Scientific Director. The Treasurer is Dr. Hannah Kersten and the Board Secretary is Clare Leonard.
Who conducts the research?
Research is mostly conducted by scientists in medicine, bioengineering, computer science and biomedical science. Research is overseen by our Scientific Director, Prof. Helen Danesh-Meyer.
Where is the research carried out?
VRF works with NZ universities and institutions to carry out research, and also has offices in Remuera, Auckland.
Where do my donations go?
Donations go towards supporting New Zealand researchers pursuing visionary ideas in one or more of our research arms: glaucoma, neurological disease, oculomics and community engagement.
Can I claim donations for a tax credit?
As VRF is a registered charity, we will provide you with a donation receipt. In New Zealand, individuals can claim 1/3rd of the value of eligible donations over $5, up to their taxable income. Click here for more details.
How can I donate to Vision Research Foundation?
You can contact us via email info@vrf.org.nz to discuss making a donation to a specific research arm or to the VRF General Fund. You can donate on our website or by direct transfer to our bank account, either as a one-off, monthly or annual donation. Your donation can also be in memory of someone or as a celebration of an event or person. You can also leave money or possessions in your Will to VRF, as a bequest. Please see our Bequest Information Sheet.
Who can I contact about making a donation?
If you are interested in donating and would like to discuss this further with anyone in the team, you can contact our Trust Administrator, Clare Leonard, on 021 132 4971 or clare@vrf.org.nz to arrange a meeting or to discuss your donation.