Rooted in Compassion. Focused on Impact.
The TEAM Foundation was launched in March 2025 and exists to bridge the healthcare divide in South Texas. From rural communities to underserved neighborhoods in growing cities, too many individuals face unnecessary obstacles to receiving the care they need due to a shortage or lack of medical specialists. We believe every person deserves access to quality specialists—regardless of their zip code, background, or income.
We launched this foundation to turn that belief into action.
Texas Educational Academic Medical Foundation
TEAM is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing excellence in ophthalmic care through education, training, and service. Our mission is to strengthen the eye care workforce by creating meaningful pathways for learning, professional growth, and community impact.
At the heart of our work is a comprehensive Residency Program, designed to prepare future leaders in ophthalmology through hands-on training, mentorship, and clinical excellence. This program is supported by the Mein Eye Institute, which serves as a center for innovation, education, and patient-focused care.
TEAM is proud to be affiliated with TIGMER (Texas Institute for Graduate Medical Education and Research), collaborating with respected partners like Sponsel Eye Experts to provide high-quality training environments and real-world clinical experience.
In addition to physician training, TEAM offers a Vocational Program for Ophthalmology Scribes and Technicians, equipping participants with the practical skills, knowledge, and professional readiness needed to support ophthalmic practices and improve patient care. This vocational training is a core part of our services and reflects our commitment to building a strong, skilled, and sustainable eye care workforce.
Through education, collaboration, and service, TEAM works to create lasting impact for patients, providers, and the communities we serve.
Who We Are
Healthcare access is not a single-issue problem.
Each TEAM initiative addresses a specific need within the healthcare system—whether it’s a lack of specialists, limited facilities, or barriers like transportation and cost. We focus on programs that combine direct care, education, medical research, and community support to deliver sustainable solutions.
Our first initiative, Sight for South Texas, addresses the urgent crisis in vision care across the region. But this is just the beginning.
What We Do
Where We’re Going Next
As TEAM grows, we are building toward a broader future for specialty care in South Texas. In addition to expanding Ophthalmology and launching Orthopedics, we will continue exploring future initiatives in General Surgery, Obstetrics, and Anesthesia. Each program will follow our core model of medical training, research, clinical services, and community outreach, with the same commitment to long-term, community-first solutions.
The TEAM Foundation is powered by people who care—donors, partners, healthcare professionals, community organizations, volunteers, and advocates. If you believe that every person deserves a chance at a healthy future, we invite you to join us.