The Battambang Orphanage Project - Lift the Lives of Impoverished Cambodian Youth

  Cambodia

• Other Cities in Cambodia: 
Battambang

Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks
Dates: Please inquire for specific dates.

Description:
This is Life for Cambodian Youth Today
Cambodia is one of the poorest countries in Southeast Asia. People here are still trying to shake off the shocking recent history of the Khmer Rouge era, and most Cambodians live in a world of poverty and limited infrastructure. The temples of Angkor Wat have helped put the country on the tourist map, in turn raising awareness and opening the flood gates of support from foreign NGOs, but the need still far outweighs the aid available. It is not uncommon for Cambodian children to grow up without the food, shelter, and medical care they need to develop normally.

Your New Family
This year we are proud to continue our support and provide meaningful service projects that improve the general living conditions for the children at our partner orphanage. This orphanage is home to about 53 children who range in age from 7 to 12 years old. Most of these children have lost their parents to disease or other tragic events and all are in need of a solid dose of positive energy in their lives. You will become a part of this warm and welcoming family as soon as you step foot in the door, and working alongside these children will give you insight into the daily lives of some of the poorest citizens in Cambodia.

You will spend your time working alongside the Cambodian children who live here on various projects around the modest shelter the kids call home. You may find yourself laying bricks to improve the facility, planting rice in the orphanage's fields, tutoring students in English, or painting a mural to help brighten the atmosphere. There is always something to do, and with the help of your new friends, you will be amazed at how fast the time will pass. By the end of your stay, you won't want to go home!

Angkor and the Killing Caves
When you take a break from your time with the kids, you'll have a chance to explore a little of Cambodia's past. Wander the majestic ruins of Angkor Wat and wonder at the sheer size of this ancient Khmer temple complex. From the heights of the Khmer Empire, you will descend to witness the horrors of the Khmer Rouge era. A visit to the Killing Caves will bring home the tragic recent history of this vibrant country and give you a greater understanding of modern Cambodia.

Planting Seeds of Hope
The need for assistance at the Battambang Orphanage Project is truly endless, and in addition to the work you do on the facilities, there will be countless ways you can help the youngsters who live here. You'll find yourself surrounded by smiling children (most of them under 10 years old) who are hungry to learn everything they can from you. Teach songs, art, and English, and help the older students hone their math and computer skills. Let them show you how to play their favorite games and sing their favorite songs. Head out of town on exciting field trips and show these children things they've never had the chance to see. Treat them to ice cream, play endless games of tag, and show them how to ride a bicycle. Every moment you share will enrich their lives and remind you how much you take for granted. When it comes time to go home, you'll realize that it's impossible not to leave part of your heart here with these wonderful kids. Really not ready to go home? Consider a stay at the Hill Tribe Orphanage in Thailand.

Highlights:
OPEN your heart to these eager Cambodian orphans and make a huge impact on their lives through rewarding service projects.

JOIN the family and get acquainted with your new Cambodian brothers and sisters. They're looking forward to meeting you!

ENGAGE in service that will empower these poverty-stricken children and give them an opportunity for a brighter future.

FEEL the joy radiating from these amazing children and witness their happiness despite extremely difficult living conditions.

GAIN a new perspective on your life and go home with a great appreciation for the simple things you once took for granted.

Cost in US$: 1,095 USD

Experience Required: no

Age Range: 15+

This Program is open to American Participants.

Participants Travel to Cambodia in Groups

Typically Participants Work in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Rustic Pathways's Mission Statement: Rustic Pathways is a pioneer in providing superior quality travel and service programs for students and families in some of the world's most welcoming countries. Rustic Pathways demands professionalism and integrity across all of its operations, insists on quality in all aspects of its programs, and places the safety of its students above all other considerations. We enrich the lives of our students and our staff, benefit the parts of the world we serve, and build cultural bridges that lead to greater global understanding and cooperation.

Year Founded: 1983