 Cambodia. Just the name conjures up a myriad of different thoughts in different people. Some people may think of the grandeur and beauty of the temples of Angkor. Other people may remember the atrocities and terror caused by the Khmer Rouge. The older crowd may remember the secret bombings by the US in the late 60’s and early 70’s. Today however, Cambodia is redefining its image as a country of peace. Children are once again going to school. Tourists are coming in larger numbers every year, and are discovering the warmth and friendliness of the Khmer people. The infrastructure is recovering after years of war and conflict, making Cambodia an increasingly easier place to get around. And for the first time in many years, Cambodians are looking to the future with a sense of hope, something unimaginable just a short time ago.
Why be a Cambodia volunteer?
With this peace comes responsibility, and because of the recent Khmer Rouge genocide, a large percentage of this responsibility lies in the hands of Cambodia’s youth. 40% of the country’s population is under the age of 15. In addition to that, almost all of the country’s qualified teachers and scholars were executed in an attempt to purge the nation of any resistance to the Khmer Rouge. This leaves a huge void in the field of education and they are in great need of volunteers to assist many of the young teachers.
Volunteer in Cambodia
Openmind Projects Cambodia is based out of the charming riverside town of Battambang. As a volunteer you will have the opportunity to teach outside of the city, but close enough to enjoy its markets, restaurants and other conveniences.
You can volunteer at an orphan home in Cambodia, for children whose parents are affected by AIDS.
You can volunteer at a center for street children in Cambodia,
You can volunteer at an English School for poor children who can’t afford lessons.
Volunteering in Cambodia- The Team
Mike Isenberg - After growing up in Southern California, Mike graduated from UC Santa Barbara in 2003 with a degree in political science. As a volunteer with Openmind Projects for six months in the south of Thailand, Mike fell in love with the region. Now in 2007, he is coming back to the SE Asia to help start Openmind Projects in Cambodia.
 Karin Hildingson – Karin was raised in the south of Sweden and graduated from the University of Calmar in 2005. In 2005 Karin, came to volunteer with Openmind Projects and instantly felt at home in Asia. Her next stop is Cambodia where she aims to bring the same kind of energy and focus to help the Khmer people.
Both Mike and Karin live at the Openmind House in Battambang, and will be assisting volunteers in Cambodia throughout their stay. For contact information click here.
Apply now and receive information on volunteering abroad in Cambodia, gap year in Cambodia, orphan homes in Cambodia, helping street children in Cambodia, teach English in Cambodia. |
