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International Volunteer Work with Children in Cambodia
Volunteering abroad in an orphanage in Cambodia - one of Asia's poorest countries - can be challenging, but incredibly rewarding. Whether you are on a gap year, vacation from your studies, or coming to development work as an older volunteer on a career break, you will make a valuable contribution to those you assist during your time abroad.
Although the civil war in Cambodia has long since finished, its legacy continues to haunt this beautiful country. Amputees begging in the streets are a common sight and serve as a reminder to the devastation caused by landmines that were left behind. HIV and AIDS is a growing problem and has also contributed to the overcrowding of orphanages in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
Children remain particularly vulnerable, but by working and interacting with children in orphanages, centres for street children, and centres for children who have physical disabilities you can help to improve their confidence and their future prospects. Our volunteers work with the children lucky enough to be in these homes but also with those left out on the streets.
I had no idea in what kind of health the children would be, or any idea what to expect. But as soon as I walked through the gates, two little ones took each of my hands and dragged me away to play. Their innocence and trust was so touching, and something that I encountered every day with my kids. True to Cambodian culture they were all so friendly, funny, and I got to know each of my students individually. Read more...
Volunteering Abroad on a Care Project with Orphans in Cambodia
We have a wide range of Care placements in Cambodia that you can take part in. Projects Abroad volunteers work in centres for children who have been orphaned or abandoned, who have physical disabilities, and for those who have HIV/AIDS. If you want to do international volunteer work that can really make a difference in people's lives, this is the project for you.
Volunteers usually start work between 8am and 9am and finish by 4pm. Some volunteers who live close to their placement return home for lunch, otherwise it will be provided at the placement. Most volunteers work from Monday to Friday and have the weekends free to travel. However, occasionally an orphanage may arrange a soccer match or put on a show on a Saturday, where extra help would be appreciated.
Volunteering Abroad in Orphanages and Care Centres
Projects Abroad Care volunteers work in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Volunteers are needed to help at the orphanages and care centres on a basic level; for example, you may be washing and feeding the children or teaching them personal hygiene. On a social level, friendship and support are the key things you can offer on this placement. Whether you are helping children complete their homework, playing sports or teaching them a new game, the time and attention you give to them is invaluable. Any skills or talents you have are welcomed.
Most of the orphanages in Cambodia are also eager for volunteers to teach some English to the children. Teaching children songs, the alphabet, and colors, for example, would all be greatly appreciated. Some of the orphanages have their own schools on site, and if you are happy to help with more formal lessons you will be able to combine some teaching with the general care work.
Projects Abroad is happy to provide extra help to volunteers on the care placement. We can help by perhaps buying some arts and craft materials or arranging a day where all the volunteers help renovate a play area at one of the orphanages. Input from volunteers is welcomed and we are open to any ideas you may have to help make the lives of these children brighter.
This project is available for less than a month if you don't have time to join us for a month or more. This project has been selected by our local colleagues as being suitable for shorter durations for both the host community and the volunteer. Although you will gain valuable cultural insight and work intensely within the local community please be aware that you may not be able to make the same impact as someone participating for a longer period.