Care for orphans in Cambodia

  Cambodia

Rural Areas

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks

Description: After years of self-imposed isolation, Cambodia has finally convinced the world that it's worth sacrificing extra time on Thailand's beaches to make the short hop across the border; in fact it boasts its own beautiful beaches, all untroubled by tourists. Cambodia offers an undiluted version of South East Asia, something which is harder and harder to find amongst its more popular neighbours. From viewing some of mans' greatest achievements in Angkor Wat and the Khmer temples to glimpsing one of its worst moments in the Killing Fields, Cambodia is never dull. The world may be ready to re-discover Cambodia, but the human cost of years of misrule is not so easily settled. Poverty is a persistent problem, and this home for orphaned children is tackling it head on by providing shelter, food, clothing and safety.

* Project details:

Based in Samrong Village just outside Phnom Penh the Cambodian Children Support Foundation (CCSF) was founded in September 2002. The aim is to provide full daily care of orphaned Cambodian children with warm shelter, safe feeling, clothes, education and medical care. A multi-function project model has been created by starting several micro businesses such as animal raising, vegetable planting and vocational training and etc. All of these are for children education support and income generation. So far the project has been funded by different people around the world.

The goals are to create and maintain a peaceful home, in a natural environment, in which children will develop their individual talents, to encourage own responsibility, respect, freedom, love for nature and Cambodian culture, to stimulate friendship, positive behavior and changes in life, and to share love with all children involved.

* Why the project needs volunteers:

The staffs at this project take care of almost 50 children and provide them with care and education. In order to support themselves they also grow their own vegetables and keeping some livestock (pigs, cows, chickens, ducks etc.). The orphans that live out the shelter are therefore given the opportunity to learn new skills and live in a peaceful and safe environment. There is always plenty to be done at the shelter and the project needs volunteers to help in every area of the work they do.

Highlights:
* Making a positive impact on the lives of the children at your project
* Getting a real insight into this fascinating country
* Exploring Cambodia in your free time - a trip to Angkor Wat is a must!

Qualifications: What kind of skills you need to go on this type of project:
You don't need any qualifications to participate in this project but you should have a genuine love for children, be self-motivated, flexible and adaptable and have plenty of patience. You should also have a willingness to work hard. If you have any computer skills which you can pass on to the children that will also be a great advantage.

Your role as a volunteer:
Your English speaking skills will help the children and staff alike and you may also get the opportunity to work with the children from the surrounding area as well. You'll also be needed to help take care of the children at the shelter, including some basic health care. You'll also be asked to get stuck into the farming and general maintenance; plus dancing, computer training, sewing and much more if you have the skills.

Cost in US$: USD 1295.00 for 2 weeks, USD 275.00 for every week

* Accommodation: Shared room in guesthouse
* Food: Food is not included; you will need to purchase your own food (budget approximately USD 70 per week)
* Airport Pickup: Included on arrival date. Ask us for details if you're arriving early!
* Training: In-country orientation
* Support: Pre-departure helpdesk, Local in-country team and 24hr emergency support

Experience Required: no

Age Range: 18-80

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Cambodia Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

i-to-i Meaningful Travel's Mission Statement: i-to-i is an award-winning organization providing unique opportunities for you to travel, work and live abroad. Thousands of travelers aged 18 to 80 have joined our volunteer vacations and over 50,000 have learned to Teach English as a Foreign Language through our tailor-made TEFL courses. With over 400 projects on 4 continents, you can join the worldwide i-to-i volunteer community on an extended adventure in areas such as teaching, community development, sports coaching, conservation, building or internships in tourism, marketing, journalism, or health.

Year Founded: 1994