Allowing Your People To Do Good Works // 11.05.2008 at 9:10 PM

Categories: Community Needs, Leadership and Influence, Quality of Work Life, Social Responsibility

I am very blessed to work with the most non-egotistical, humble, decent people. This is from the top down in my group and I dare say in the organization.

My firm is saving the world at work by allowing me the opportunity to go to Africa with my church. Without question, they approved my request to take two weeks next April to travel to Eseka, Cameroon, West Africa.

I am part of a team that will be setting up a vision clinic for the people of Eseka and surrounding villages. In 2008, the first trip was a success: the clinic was open for 5 days. Some people walked for days to get to the clinic. Unfortunately, the team was unable to examine everyone and there were those who were turned away. These people can’t see. We are going so they can.

We will also distribute malaria nets (one net can protect a family of 4) and provide health education while they are waiting to be seen in the clinic. A net costs $10 and can save the lives of a family of four. Think about it-- that's $2.50 per human life. I find that shocking.

I am humbled by my firm's generosity with respect to my request. Yes, I have the vacation to take, but two weeks is a significant amount of time. Not every firm would be so accepting. Not only does this make me want to continue to work there, but the ripple will be felt on another continent.

How amazing is that?