Volunteer in Cambodia!

  Cambodia

Siem Reap

Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Dates: Ongoing.

Description: Cambodia is one of the most fascinating countries in Southeast Asia. Following years of war and genocide, Cambodia is now a very safe place to visit, and most importantly, extremely needy. The Angkor Wat temple complex is an enormous tourist draw and the city of Siem Reap is seeing more visitors than ever. Unfortunately, most Cambodians are not reaping the benefits of the blossoming tourism industry, and a large percentage of people still live in abject poverty. Cambodia's children are in need of attention, there is a burgeoning street-child problem, and schools are inadequately equipped to deal with the increasing number of students. Over 50% of the population is under 25. In addition, thousands of Cambodians are maimed and killed every year when they step on the unexploded landmines that remain in the countryside from the years of horrible war.

Globe Aware's program is located in Siem Reap, the gateway to the famous Angkor Wat temples. Volunteers will participate in a variety of projects, including teaching English at the Buddhism Association School, which is part of the Wat Bo temple complex. It provides English instruction to young people as well as monks. Volunteers are able to provide the invaluable experience of practicing pronunciation with a native English speaker. Volunteers will also be able to work with children at a local Street Children's Center. The staff of the center brings children in off the street and provides them with alternatives to drugs and prostitution. As so many have been injured by landmines, or are victims of polio and other debilitating illnesses, volunteers may be able to assemble and distribute wheelchairs to needy recipients in rural villages. The wheelchair project will be possible based on availability of parts and in accordance with shipping and customs regulations. Volunteers may help teach children in the village school. A set itinerary is created, though there is ample room to pick and choose projects that appeal to you the most.

Highlights: The Angkor Wat temples are more unique than the Taj Mahal in India, taller than any European Medieval Church, and more varied and numerous than the pyramids in Egypt. Volunteers will have time to visit many of the famed temples of Angkor Wat, the stunning floating village on Tonle Sap Lake, and explore the town of Siem Reap.

Qualifications: There are no special skills or qualifications necessary.

Cost in US$: 1200.00

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: The typical Globe Aware volunteer is a working professional between the ages of 25 and 45.

Age Range: All ages welcome.

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

Participants Travel to Cambodia Independently

Typically Participants Work in Groups of <10

Application Process Involves:

• Written Application

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

Globe Aware's Mission Statement: Globe Aware seeks to promote lifelong advocates for a better world and to sustain the world's cultural and natural resources. The organization, together with the local community hosts, develops effective local solutions to global problems in non-religious, non-political, multi-international environments. The aim is to expand and foster cross-cultural peace and understanding between Americans and the rest of the world, to preserve culture and promote sustainability. Globe Aware expeditions provide volunteers the opportunity to live and work side by side with a host community. The hosts provide a safe and interesting setting in which to learn, help, and have fun. The volunteers help to empower the host communities in creating renewable, self-sufficient programs. While Globe Aware's financial assistance benefits the community economically, it is actually the involvement and collaboration between the volunteers and community that is the greatest mutual benefit.

Year Founded: 2001