Staff

Caren Forsten

Chief Executive Officer

As the fifth chief executive in the organization’s more than 85-year history, Caren brings extensive leadership experience in both the private and nonprofit sectors, most recently serving as director of marketing with Verizon. She has a demonstrated history of success in improving client service experiences through relationship building, meaningful communications, and high-performing, cross-functional teams. This experience is invaluable to her role at POB, leading our efforts to increase partnerships and community awareness of our work.

Caren earned her Bachelor of Science from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and Master of Business Administration from the University of Maryland, College Park. She is actively involved in her community through nonprofit organizations such as The George Washington University Hospital and the Junior League of Washington.

Testimonials

I applied for a job with Metro - I needed new eyeglasses so I could be a MetroBus operator. Thanks to POB, I was able to get new prescription eyeglasses at a price I could afford! Thank you!

I would like to thank POB for arranging virtual Low Vision Support & Resource Group events. I have found them extremely helpful.

Thanks to POB for hosting events for individuals with low vision. It truly gives people a sense of community!

Thank you to the Prevention of Blindness Society for your kindness and generosity with the students of Highland Elementary School. Lives have been changed! The Linkages to Learning Center - and a lot of smiling kiddos - are beyond grateful for the work you all do!

Thank you so much to POB for your professional, friendly, and courteous services. You are amazing and wonderful people. I am lucky to have my new eyeglasses! I can even see the spots on my husband's tie now. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

In 2002, your organization came to my preschool for a vision screening, and my parents learned that I had amblyopia. If I had not been screened by the Prevention of Blindness Society, I could have become completely blind in my right eye. This would have made some activities that I enjoy, like playing soccer, more difficult. Your screening saved my vision. Thank you for your continued efforts in providing vision care for those in need.