Location:

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Program Type:

Intern Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Year Round

Work Types:

Business, Education, Medical, Nursing, Religion, Social Sciences

Program Overview

Program Description:

Poverty and abandonment due to decades of war and corruption have led to an increase in the population of orphans and have left many children deeply scarred. An especially difficult situation is the plight of children orphaned by HIV/AIDS. With the help of international volunteers, Global Service Corps works with a children’s center outside of Phnom Penh to provide support and life skills for orphans affected by HIV/AIDS to help them successfully integrate into Cambodian society when they leave the orphanage. GSC volunteers become part of the center’s extended family as they live, work, and play with the children and bond with the local staff. Volunteers assist the staff by organizing activities for the children that will allow them to share their own passions and talents. The possibilities for contributing are endless and may include teaching basic English, planning educational games, and leading sports, art, dance, or other creative activities. The Cambodia Orphanage Care Program is available throughout the year and can range from two weeks to six months or longer. Undergraduate and graduate students may also receive college credit for their participation in any GSC program.

All participants begin their program with a five-day cultural orientation and training. Khmer language lessons are included in the orientation as well as a guided tour of historical and cultural sites that will provide insight into the storied history of Cambodia.

Participants discover Cambodia by living, working, and learning with Cambodian people in their own communities. They are immersed in the local culture and enjoy language lessons, cultural orientation, and technical trainings. By sharing their time, talents, experience, and knowledge, volunteers transform their own lives as well as the lives of the local community members.

Setting Description:

During the first week of orientation, participants will be housed in a local hotel/guesthouse in Phnom Penh. After orientation, you will either stay in a guesthouse or in your placement’s on-site accommodations (for the Orphanage Care and Buddhist Immersion Programs). All accommodations are shared with same-sex volunteers.