Volunteers Make A Soaring Impact!

Hundreds of volunteers from Memphis, FedEx, and Orbis collaborated to build a flying hospital – the first of its kind. FedEx Express and Orbis International debuted the world’s one and only mobile ophthalmic teaching hospital. FedEx donated this aircraft back in 2011, and after 6 years of renovation, the finished product is due in part to countless volunteers and retired FedEx employees. This aircraft will be able to travel all across the world providing expert care to millions of people who previously had no access quality eye care.

Of the 285 million people suffering from visual impairment in the world, 4 out of 5 of those cases could have been prevented with proper medical treatment. However, 9 out of 10 of those cases live in developing countries where treatment isn’t available. Therefore, you can see how Orbis has the potential to make a huge impact in the world.

In order to carry out their vision, Orbis has over 400 volunteer pilots and hospital staffers ready to travel around the globe to train other young professionals on how to provide expert eye care. These volunteers are integral to helping make a difference so that one day soon we can report more countries have access to quality medical care leading to fewer number of individuals with visual impairment.

The Flying Eye Hospital is just one example of how ordinary people have the means to change the world if they are willing to donate their time to a cause that ignites their passion. No matter how big or small a task you have the ability to make a difference. What will you do today to make a positive impact in Memphis?  Start making a difference today using the Calendar of Volunteer Opportunities or Volio. Take a virtual tour of the hospital to learn more.

For these volunteers the sky’s the limit!