Donors and volunteers strengthened their understanding and commitment to the right to education in Cambodia. About 20 volunteers recently travelled to Cambodia from Hong Kong on the 28th of December 2014 to the 3rd of January 2015. They visited various projects involving homeless children, children with disabilities, disadvantaged children, and children from rural communities. They contributed to concrete achievements to improve school environments which turned out to be a rewarding experience for all.
In addition to donations, toy distribution, educational games, and school supplies, children, donors and volunteers shared their knowledge and life experiences. “I’ve realized that, despite difficult living conditions, these children are all very quiet, friendly and smiling” says Ms. Tania Hung at a center for street children. I am proud of Aide et Action’s work to help children overcome their difficulties and challenges. I am really happy to chat and play with them.”
The volunteers did not hesitate to do physical work by helping with the construction of a new community center in the province of Kandal in cooperation with project supporters, authorities and communities. “The heat makes me tired, but I’m very pleased with this activity because it is a solid contribution to improve children’s lives,” said Miss Winnie Tsoi, when building a bamboo wall.
Another young volunteer, Joyce, 14 years old, is very good at painting. She said: “I like to paint and I really want to do everything I can to support children.” Joyce is used to being involved in AEA’s projects. She is participating in a Charity volunteer Experience trip with her family for the third time. She helped by painting classrooms, school closings, the making of library shelves and now she is painting toilets to improve hygiene in small community nursery in Kandal.
At the end of the visit, the sharing session allowed volunteers to show their appreciation of AEA’s work. They strongly encouraged AEA to continue its work and expand its partnerships with other local associations. They also committed alongside AEA Hong Kong, to raise awareness of people around their family, friends, neighbours, students, and companies – about the importance of raising funds for education in South East Asia and China.