Building Battambang's Future

  Cambodia

• Other Cities in Cambodia: 
Battambang

Term: Spring, Summer 
Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Dates: Spring & Summer 2010

Description: Transplanting Hope:
About a year ago we began a partnership program with CPCDO a local Cambodian NGO that operates a number of orphanages around the country. Since that time we have grown as an organization and CPCDO has grown alongside us. With the success of our student fund raising efforts we will be breaking ground on a new facility located closer to the town of Battambang. The new location will provide the children with easier access to higher quality schools and medical care that were previously few and far between at their previous location. Our generous network of donors will be working closely with us as we begin construction on a newly purchased parcel of land along the Steung Sangke river that carves its way though Battambang. The facility will operate almost independently from any city services or utilities as the area does not offer power or city water. The facility will be powered by imported wind generators and solar panels as well as by bio-digesting toilets that turn waste into fuel for cooking. The new land also provides opportunities for the children to learn about agriculture and organic farming as well as how to raise and take care of animals. We will be working with a number of other local organizations to help see this project through. We invite everyone who would like to participate in literally laying the foundation for new hope to join us on this exciting program!

Endless Spring Service Opportunities:

Volunteers working at CPCDO will have a chance to make important contributions to the lives of the children. Activities range from planting and weeding gardens to helping finish the second dormitory building that is under construction. If it is raining or a little too hot outside there is always teaching that can be done in our classroom. The children have a basic understanding of the English language and love to participate in educational games and activities. They study English, Computer, and Sewing which volunteers are welcome to assist with. Often, our volunteers find themselves to be the pupils as the children teach them how to fish or play their favorite games. Volunteers are encouraged to lead classes on whatever subjects they would like in our classroom. We can also arrange for the use of our computers and our projector and we are happy to assist in organizing any teaching materials that volunteers require. The activities are endless, and we are always willing to help arrange what we can to help you get the most out of your time in Cambodia.

Special Donor Projects:

Occasionally, we have large projects such as the construction of new buildings, volunteer bungalows, or the installation of water purification equipment that take place while volunteers are visiting. We encourage our volunteers not to be shy and jump in with the rest of the staff. Our friendly staff will help you learn the ropes and you will find yourself on the fast track to being a professional grade Cambodian carpenter or bricklayer!

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Qualifications: There are no formal qualifications necessary to join our volunteer/community service trips around the world. We only ask that you are physically fit and come with an open mind, ready to meet people and lend a hand!

Cost in US$: 995

Credit Available: yes

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: Participants in our community service programs tend to be open-minded individuals who are eager to see the world, experience a new culture, and lend a helping hand.

Age Range: 13-26

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 12

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network
• Job and Internship Network

Global Student Outreach's Mission Statement: Global Student Outreach believes that informal education through interaction will benefit impoverished and disadvantaged children more then forced encounters with foreign concepts and values. Our organization strives to connect foreign volunteers with Cambodian youth in need of support, allowing them to work together on cooperative projects throughout the country. The resulting interaction and genuine friendship between the volunteers and the local population will stimulate curiosity about the world beyond and promote greater interest in pursuit of higher education.

Year Founded: 2009