Once known as the Khmer empire, Cambodia is perhaps best known for its monumental temples, especially that of Angkor Wat – finalist in the election of the new 7 wonders of the world in 2006. It is without doubt a country of incredible beauty, scattered with these temples, fertile rice fields and a rich and interesting history. For this reason it is unsurprising that Cambodia has taken a firm place on the tourist map. Having been a protectorate of France for almost 100 years, the country gained its independence in 1953. Following this however, Cambodia experienced years of civil war, turmoil and political corruption, as well as suffering from its involvement in the Vietnam war. Despite holding this dark history, Cambodia really is an extraordinary country and has prevailed due to what has been described as the unbreakable spirit of the Cambodian people. The people here are known for their friendliness and their smiles.
ABOUT SAMRAONG
Samraong, which name translates from Khmer into “impenetrable jungle”, is a town located in northwestern Cambodia, close to the border with Thailand. You will be located in a small, rural village located in the outskirts of town. This remote location will give you a taste of what rural Cambodia looks and feels like, while at the same time allowing you to explore some of Cambodia’s highlights, as Siem Reap is located only two hours away.
Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older, though exceptions to this age requirement may be made on a case-by-case basis. Successful volunteers are hardworking, flexible, and open to truly immersing themselves in the culture. Keep in mind that all countries have different visa restrictions for varying types of passports.
World Endeavors volunteers in Cambodia choose from projects in the following areas:
Volunteers interested in Community Development can participate in the following project:
Construction Effort
On this project, you will get your hands dirty with construction assignments. Our main construction focus is working at a local school, which has been allocated as an education resource for the children of poor villagers.
This school was built with the support and sweat equity of helpers like yourself, along with skilled local tradesmen. Today, more than three hundred children attend classes here daily.
Despite previous efforts, the work here is far from done and we continue to construct new buildings, pathways, toilets, walls, drainage systems for rain run-off, etc. to meet the needs of all those using the facility.
Those with an artistic talent can help decorate the walls by creating murals and paintings of their home countries and cultures. We have a feeling that this will be a nice way of reflecting the good, hard work that has been done by people like yourself over previous years.
Other construction efforts might be carried out in the local village (renovating and building houses and sanitation facilities) or working on construction projects at the local hospital - this very much depends on the needs of the particular time. So what you can expect from your efforts is to be directing and implementing your construction skills wherever they are needed most!
Activities focus on light construction work and you will be expected to help paint the school buildings, make tables & chairs, construct and renovate the playground, make pathways, build toilets, repair the school walls and help build new classrooms. You can look forward to working out in the local community, if construction and renovation jobs arise.
Volunteers interested in Environmental Conservation can participate in the following project:
Environmental Conservation
The aim of this project is to conserve mangrove plantations in order to reverse the trend of the removal of mangrove sites, which has seen a rapid increase during recent years. This can only realistically be achieved through the education of the younger generation, combined with the continual physical work of planting new mangroves.
The province of Kampot is slowly emerging as one of Cambodia’s most popular destinations for both domestic and international tourists. Situated in the south-eastern proximity of the country, it offers an abundance of natural attractions.
A vital necessity for the tourism industry is the management of mangrove plantation. Unfortunately, in recent years, numerous mangrove sites have been removed from local river banks. Instead, many locals favor salt plantations, as these offer a greater short-term profit. This has contributed to a severe increase in illegal fishing within the province.
A good level of physical fitness and a background in environmental-science or tourism would be advantageous, but not necessary.
Volunteers interested in Health Education can participate in the following project:
Medical Outreach Project
We work with several local schools to encourage the development of health education in cooperation with the provincial health department. In a country such as Cambodia, especially in rural areas, this is of extreme importance.
Our program is designed for those with a medical background, your role will be based on your level of experience and the judgment of local doctors.
We encourage participants to prepare work and lessons before their arrival. Topics like the following should be your main concern:
- Sanitation/hygiene
- Body Health
Keep in mind that you will be teaching in rural schools and working with basic resources, you will need to get creative!
This project is an additional $40 per week.
Volunteers interested in Agriculture projects can participate in the following project:
Agriculture Development Project
Be part of an Agri-Tech learning center, engaging with locals to implement sustainable alternative technologies and farming practices.
With a strong focus on rural entrepreneurship, the goal of this program is to work in partnership with young people of rural communities to help the agricultural economy thrive.
An international NGO and a community-based organization in Samraong have collaborated to develop an agricultural skills training program that provides free courses to community members on the vital role of agriculture and the use of sustainable farming practices. Work closely with locals who have extensive experience in agriculture and project management, who will serve as your guide, delegating tasks and sharing their expertise to help accomplish the projects.
The aims and objectives of this project include:
- Providing access to vocational training in horticulture, integrated farming and other sustainable farming practices and sustainable technology
- Improving practical application of rural development skills in line with environmental preservation
- Enhancing the capacity of young farmers for enterprise development
Volunteers will commute by bicycle each day to the project site 5-6 km (15-20 minutes) from the volunteer house. Experience the authentic countryside of Cambodia by living among locals and helping the villagers on their farms.
Volunteers should:
- Have a keen interest in being outdoors, gardening and basic building work
- Be willing to work in the sun, not be too scared of insects and bugs, and be prepared to engage in some heavy lifting
Volunteers interested in Teaching can participate in the following project:
Greenway School
Every day, more than 400 children arrive at the Greenway School in Samraong to attend one of the two sessions offered.
All of them are eager to learn and are extremely appreciative of those who can assist them with their educational development. The school was designed, built and completely operated by people like you, under the guidance of our native Cambodian manager and teacher.
Students attend a regular public school for three hours per day, where they don’t get the chance to learn a lot of English. The public school shifts are divided into a morning group and an afternoon group, giving the children a chance to come to our school during their free time (e.g. the morning group can attend our afternoon shift and vice versa). What is so unique and amazing about the Greenway School, is that the children come of their own accord and truly enjoy their time here.
Teaching takes place in a traditional classroom setting. However, we are very flexible and encourage you to be creative in your lesson planning. The most important thing to consider is that you remain within the scope of the established curriculum and its schedule.
The children who come to Greenway School, come from the Pul village, as well as five other surrounding villages. Their ages range from 6 to 15. Most currently possess just a basic level of English, but using our established curriculum, we are able to accommodate beginners all the way up to level 5.
Class sizes are typically between 10-30 students. Classrooms are equipped with basic teaching resources, such as a whiteboard and flash cards. You are highly encouraged to bring small learning materials and items to use in your class and/or donate to our school. These things are gratefully received and help to broaden the curriculum and teaching possibilities that we can offer.
Besides passing on your English knowledge, you may also be able to share some basic hygiene and sanitation routines, as well as, your own experiences and cultural background.
Volunteers interested in Youth Sports Coaching can participate in the following project:
Sports Coaching
During this program, you will teach the children team sport, mainly football (soccer) in a provincial stadium located 15 minutes away from the accommodation by bike. You will be teaching children from the local football team, so a love for football, accompanied with some football knowledge and/or experience, and team management skills will be needed!
The coaching sessions should be both technical and practical. Your coordinator will share ideas, but you are expected to bring a go-to attitude and lead your group with drills, ideas and fitness exercises.
Keep in mind that equipment may be limited and not exactly what you may be used to, so you may need to be resourceful and creative!
With this program, we are aiming to broaden the social and athletic skills that these children have through participation in sport activities. These new skill and lessons will foster the development important life skills.
Volunteers stay in a shared volunteer house and stay in shared rooms by gender. Three meals a day on weekdays (two on weekends) are included during your stay. During your stay the meals will be typical Cambodian style, which includes plenty of rice and noodle dishes. On a few occasions there may be meat, but generally speaking there is no western food served. Vegetarian options are available.
The World Endeavors Volunteer in Cambodia program is flexible in duration, and can be tailored to last between 1 to 12 weeks. Admissions are rolling, and World Endeavors volunteers can choose when they would like to start their program. Due to holidays, traditional vacation schedules, and seasonal work availability, there might be better times than others to volunteer at a specific location or in a specific project.
When you are ready to start planning your volunteer trip to Cambodia, contact us. Our experienced advisors will help you sort through any timing considerations unique to your destination or your volunteer project.
Please wait until after you are accepted into the program and you have received the confirmed arrival and departure dates before you book your flight.
| Program Name | First Week | Each Additional Week |
|---|---|---|
| Volunteer In Cambodia | $2,085 | $300 |
INCLUDED FEATURES
- Program Advisor: dedicated, experienced, and accessible for one-on-one guidance
- Local Onsite Coordinator with 24/7 availability; pre and post arrival orientation
- Visa guidance and support
- Comprehensive travel medical insurance
- Travel Protection with 24/7 Emergency Travel Assistance
- Re-entry Support
- Airport reception
- Shared, single gender dorm style rooms
- 3 meals per weekday and 2 meals per weekend provided
OTHER BUDGET CONSIDERATIONS
- Round-trip transportation to Cambodia
- Visa expenses
- Optional trips and excursions
Congratulations on your decision to embark on a life-changing experience abroad! We look forward to working with you to make your trip a memorable, meaningful one. We can accommodate applications received 4 weeks prior to the intended start date up to a year in advance. If your intended start date is less than 4 weeks away, contact World Endeavors for more information.
