Care Work in Cambodia with Projects Abroad

  Cambodia

Phnom Penh

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks, 3-6 months and 7-12 months
Typical Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks
Dates: All year round

Description: Volunteering in an orphanage in Cambodia - one of Asia's poorest countries - can be challenging but also incredibly rewarding. Whether you are on a gap year, holiday from university or coming to development work as an older volunteer on a career break, you will have a role to play and your contribution will be valued.

Although the civil war in Cambodia has long since finished, its legacy continues to haunt this beautiful country. Amputees begging in the streets are a common sight and a reminder of the devastation caused by landmines that were left behind. HIV and AIDS is a growing problem and has also contributed to the overcrowding of Phnom Penh's orphanages.

Children remain particularly vulnerable, but by working and interacting with children in orphanages, centers for street children, and centers for children who have physical disabilities you can help to improve their confidence and their future prospects. Our volunteers work with the children lucky enough to be in these homes but also with those left out on the streets.

Volunteering on a Care Project with Orphans in Cambodia

We have a wide range of Care placements in Cambodia which are all worthwhile projects. Project Abroad volunteers work in centers for children who have been orphaned or abandoned, who have physical disabilities or who have HIV/Aids. If you want to do some overseas voluntary work that can really make a difference to peoples lives, this is the project for you.

Volunteers usually start work between 8am and 9am, and finish by 4pm. Some volunteers who live close to their placement return home for lunch, otherwise it will be provided at the placement. Most volunteers work from Monday to Friday and have the weekends free to travel. However, occasionally an orphanage may arrange a soccer match or put on a show on a Saturday, where extra help would be appreciated.

Volunteering Abroad in Orphanages and Care Centers

Projects Abroad Care volunteers work in Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital city. Volunteers are needed to help at the orphanages and care centers on a basic level; for example, you may be washing and feeding the children or teaching them personal hygiene. On a social level interaction, friendship and support are the key things you can offer when on this placement. Whether you are helping children complete their homework, playing sports or teaching them a new game, the time and attention you give to them is invaluable. Any skills or talents you have are welcomed.

Most of the orphanages in Cambodia are also eager for volunteers to teach some English to the children. Teaching young children songs, the alphabet and colors, for example, would all be greatly appreciated. Some of the orphanages have their own schools on site, and if you are happy to help with more formal lessons you will be able to combine some teaching with the general care work.

Projects Abroad are happy to provide extra help to volunteers on the Care Projects. This may include buying some arts and craft materials or arranging a day where all the volunteers help to renovate a play area at one of the orphanages. Input from volunteers is welcomed and we are open to any ideas you may have to help make the lives of these children brighter.

Highlights: The capital city of Cambodia is Phnom Penh, a vibrant and fascinating city that is located in the southern part of the country. Cambodia's total area is 69,898 sq. miles (181,035 sq. km), and the population has reached 14 million people. Besides the capital city, Cambodia boasts many attractions that include beautiful beaches, an exotic jungle to explore and the world famous gathering of temples in Angkor, all well worth a visit.

Our volunteers in Cambodia live in shared apartments rented by Projects Abroad. The apartments are modern, bright, and clean, and can hold about 10 volunteers at a time. One apartment is in the North of the city, in the same building as the local Projects Abroad office, and one is in the South. Volunteers will be placed according to where their placements are located to allow for the easiest commute.

This projects offers you the opportunity to become fully immersed in the culture in a manner which even the most hardened of backpackers could never hope to do.

Qualifications: None

Cost in US$: From USD 2,695 and up

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: Projects Abroad volunteers are open minded, flexible and really want to explore the world.

Age Range: 16-80

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Cambodia Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Written Application

Post-Program Services Include:

• Exit Debriefing Abroad
• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home

Projects Abroad's Mission Statement: As part of the global economy, Projects Abroad helps create local employment wherever we send volunteers. Employing local staff overseas and using their talents and knowledge is important to us. This local knowledge and support enables the organization to channel the skills of the volunteers from more affluent countries to regions around the world where they are needed. Volunteers also learn from their placements and the people they meet, and they gain experience in a chosen field. In the 21st century, we believe this mutual respect is what cultural exchange is all about.

Year Founded: 1992