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Our Optometry Team

Our team of dedicated eye health professionals are here to serve you. We combine extensive knowledge in the field of optometry with a passion for helping people solve their vision problems. It is our goal to create a friendly and professional atmosphere that you can rely on for all of your eye health needs.

Dr. George Saunders

Owner

Dr. George Saunders, owner of Yucaipa Valley Optometry, has deep roots in the Inland Empire. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Biochemistry from the University of California, Riverside, before pursuing his passion for eye care. He completed his Doctorate in Optometry at the Southern California College of Optometry, which laid the foundation for a fulfilling career in the field.

Dr. Saunders began his professional journey at Redlands Eye Medical Group, where he spent six years working closely with surgeons specializing in cornea and cataract surgery. This experience further fueled his passion for helping patients improve their vision and eye health. In July 2002, Dr. Saunders and his wife fulfilled a shared dream by opening Yucaipa Valley Optometry, where they have proudly served the community ever since.

Outside of the practice, Dr. Saunders and his wife reside in Redlands. With their children now grown, they enjoy traveling, spending quality time together, and doting on their many beloved dogs.

Dr. Marisol Hernandez

Optometrist

Dr. Hernandez is originally from Northern California, and has lived in Southern California since 2005. She obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from California State University Los Angeles and her Doctor of Optometry degree from Western University of Health Sciences. Her externship sites include: the Eye Care Institute WesternU Health Los Angeles, Veteran Affairs Medical Center in Tennessee, and private practices in California and Arizona.

Dr. Hernandez is passionate about providing the most optimal care to her patients, and she believes in the importance of comprehensive eye exams tailored to the patients’ needs and well-being. Dr. Hernandez enjoys serving the community and has volunteered at various vision screenings throughout Los Angeles County and Mexico. Dr. Hernandez is bilingual in Spanish.

In her free time, Dr. Hernandez enjoys going to the beach, attending concerts and spending quality time with her husband and family.

Dawn Saunders

Office Manager

Dawn Saunders, Office Manager at Yucaipa Valley Optometry, grew up in the Inland Empire and has been an integral part of the practice since 1995. She began her journey in the eye care industry alongside her husband, Dr. Saunders, and has never looked back. Her passion for supporting both the practice and its patients shines through in her work every day.

Outside the office, Dawn resides in Redlands, where she enjoys spending time with her husband, traveling, and caring for their many beloved dogs.

Chari

Optician

Chari joined Yucaipa Valley Optometry in March 2022, bringing with her a diverse professional background and over a decade of experience in the optical industry. A long-time resident of Yucaipa, Chari initially spent 12 years in the optical field before embarking on a 13-year journey in fine jewelry. However, her passion for working with people and her love of fashion ultimately led her back to optometry, where she could blend her interests in public service and style.

Chari discovered her ideal career path in her early twenties when she first entered the optical field. She quickly realized that working with the public, paired with the opportunity to help clients find eyewear that complements their style, was the perfect match for her skills and passions.

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Outside of work, Chari is a proud mother of two adult children, aged 24 and 27. Her daughter is involved in holistic medicine as a chiropractic assistant, while her son is a paramedic firefighter. Raising her two motivated children is Chari’s greatest accomplishment. She enjoys live music, gardening, DIY projects, decorating, and spending time with animals. Her well-rounded interests and commitment to her family and community make her an invaluable asset to both her profession and Yucaipa Valley Optometry.

Gracie

Optician

Gracie, an accomplished Optician at Yucaipa Valley Optometry, brings over 25 years of experience to her role, including more than a decade working alongside Dr. Saunders. Born and raised in Redlands, Gracie’s deep roots in the community have fostered her passion for delivering exceptional care to local patients. Her career path was affirmed by the simple joy of looking forward to work each day—a feeling driven by the meaningful connections she forms with patients, many of whom she’s had the pleasure of seeing year after year.

Outside the office, Gracie enjoys a vibrant family life with her husband and their two wonderful daughters. A dedicated animal lover, she spends her weekends soaking up quality time with her family and caring for her beloved pets.

Jessica

Front Office

Jessica joined Yucaipa Valley Optometry in August 2020, bringing over a decade of experience in the optical field. Her journey into eye care began with a passion for helping people improve their vision and an enthusiasm for hands-on work in customer service. Originally from outside the area, Jessica moved to Yucaipa in 2017, where she quickly became a valued part of the community.

Jessica’s favorite part of her role as an Optician and Front Office/Contact Lens (CL) Training specialist is the daily interaction with patients. She finds fulfillment in guiding each person through their eye care journey, ensuring they feel comfortable, informed, and well taken care of.

When she’s not assisting patients, Jessica enjoys staying active by playing slowpitch softball and going to the gym, balancing her love for wellness both inside and outside the office.

Tilly

Office Mascot

Tilly isn’t just any dog—she’s the heart and soul of our office! With her infectious smile and boundless energy, she’s here to brighten everyone’s day. Whether she’s greeting patients at the door or taking her “co-pilot” duties in the car very seriously, Tilly keeps the good vibes rolling. Known for her wagging tail and love for snacks (especially the sneaky ones), Tilly reminds us all to take a moment to pause, play, and enjoy life. Next time you visit, don’t forget to say hi—Tilly’s always ready for pets and belly rubs!