November 1st through the 9th I had the opportunity to travel to Cairo, Egypt, where I served with about 50 other people.  Our service was to provide a group of people known as the “Zabaleen”, with free medical, dental, vision and hair care.  Who are the Zabaleen, and why did they need service?  I’m glad you asked.

The Zabaleen are better known as the “Garbage Collectors”.  They live in an area just outside Cairo, Egypt, known as El-Moutamadia or “Garbage City.”  The Zabaleen go into the city of Cairo, collect the garbage, and then take it back to their homes in El-Moutamadia to sort for recyclables.  The recyclables can be turned in for money that they need to survive. 

I was there with an organization known as Operation Serve International.  (The Companies of CMC Group, Inc. do not have any connection to this organization.)  I specifically was serving in the Optical care area.  We provided free eye screenings/checkups, and were able to provide many of the people with glasses that vastly improved their vision.  From men that needed to improve their vision for everyday driving and walking, to many of the women that simply needed reading glasses for their sewing, all were so grateful for the assistance.  To be able to provide hope in such a hopeless situation was reward in and of itself.  I was humbled to be able to be used to bless others that can never repay what was received. 

We each have a cause that drives us and motivates us.  There are countless ways to express that cause and promote it.  Whether it’s serving hands on, or helping to promote the cause that you believe in, find a way to touch those around you.  PrintMyRibbon can provide you with customized ribbon to help you promote the cause that you’re most interested in helping.  Stop by the Awareness Ribbons page to find out more!