Meet Optometrist, Dr. David Hardy


Dr. Hardy was born and raised in Billings, MT. After graduating from Billings Central High School he moved to Helena to attend Carroll College, mastering in Biology and minoring in Chemistry. During his Pre-Med days at Carroll, David was on the Dean’s List six of eight times. He was accepted into the prestigious University of California at Berkeley Optometry program and graduated near the top of his class. He was awarded his doctorate from Berkeley in 1996 and began practicing the profession in Livingston, Montana.

Opportunity arose and Dr. Hardy moved to Helena in 1997 where he worked for a local Optometrist. In 2000 he opened a Pearle Vision franchise in Helena and spent the next 9 years building a very busy practice. Not all that shines was gold, and Dr. Hardy decided to break ties with Pearle Vision and close the franchise location. He moved his operations a few miles South to Montana City. Dr. Hardy now operates his practice under the name Elkhorn Vision, so named for the majestic mountain range that serves as a backdrop to his new growing facility.

Philanthropy has been high on Dr. Hardy’s list of priorities. He has been a part of 5 separate missions to impoverished communities in various parts of Mexico, providing much needed eye examinations and glasses to the less fortunate. He also collects used eye glasses and donates them to caring organizations to be used both locally and abroad.

Dr. Hardy is no stranger to the Helena community. He has been a member of the Helena Chamber of Commerce for well over a decade , serving as a board member for 6 years, including several years in executive positions. He has helped teach classes to students of the Helena School District Peak program and has also volunteered at multiple events for the local community. He is also proud to serve his country by being the primary eye care provider for the Air National Guard and the R.O.T.C. both located here in Helena.

Beyond all the accomplishments and accolades Dr. Hardy states, “No award, no prestigious title, can ever create the kind of joy in me that my three children do.” He is a true family man and thoroughly enjoys raising and caring for his two boys and younger daughter. “They give my life true purpose.”