A Personal Connection to a Lifelong Mission

For many in Cambodia, education is more than just a path to knowledge—it’s a lifeline. Growing up in the rural farming regions of Tbong Khmum province, I witnessed firsthand how poverty limits opportunity, especially for children. This deep personal experience shaped my mission to break the cycle of poverty by investing in education. Through the non-profit organization CHAB (Cambodia Humanity Activity without Borders), we are committed to empowering communities through education. One of our most important projects is the construction of a school in Bongkaung Village, which will give children access to a safe, inclusive learning environment.

The Current Reality: A Dire Situation

Bongkaung Village, located in one of the poorest areas of Cambodia, faces numerous challenges. With 355 families struggling to survive, children are often forced into child labor or even worse situations such as trafficking or exploitation. Education seems like a distant dream for many, as children must travel long distances to access any form of schooling. Without a local school, these vulnerable children are trapped in a cycle of poverty, lacking both protection and opportunities for a brighter future.

The Gap in Education: What’s Missing?

Every child has the right to education, yet in Cambodia, many children—especially those in rural areas—are deprived of this basic necessity. Poor infrastructure, lack of qualified teachers, and inadequate resources mean that even those who do attend school struggle to keep up. Violence and discrimination are also rampant in existing schools, which deters many parents from sending their children. For those with disabilities or from minority backgrounds, the situation is even worse.

This is where CHAB steps in. We are working to build a local school that will offer a safe and supportive environment, where children can learn and grow without fear. We are not just building classrooms; we are building futures.

Building a School: The Master Plan

Our vision for the Bongkaung Village school is simple yet transformative. The school will be located just 7km from Siem Reap and will cover an area of 220.5 m², with enough classrooms to accommodate 200 children. The design includes two standard bathrooms and a secure perimeter fence to ensure the safety of the students. The total cost for this project is $59,535, with additional expenses for land and infrastructure. We have already secured land in Khna Village, and the total investment required for the project is $93,000.

How This School Will Change Lives

Imagine a place where children no longer have to fear exploitation or violence—a place where they can simply be children, learning and growing in a nurturing environment. That is what we aim to create with this school. By keeping children close to their families and providing them with an education, we prevent them from being sent off to unsafe environments where they may be exploited. Education will open up new opportunities for these children, allowing them to break free from the cycle of poverty that has trapped their families for generations.

Empowering the Community Through Education

The benefits of education extend far beyond the individual child. When children are educated, the entire community thrives. Parents become more engaged, local economies improve, and healthcare access increases. Education is the key to unlocking a brighter future, not just for the children of Bongkaung Village but for the entire community. By building this school, we are investing in the future of the village, equipping it with the tools to thrive.

How You Can Be Part of This Transformation

We need your help to make this vision a reality. As the director of CHAB, I am reaching out to individuals and organizations who share our commitment to breaking the cycle of poverty. We have already made significant progress, but we need more support to complete this project. Your donation, no matter the size, can make a world of difference.

Ways You Can Support

There are several ways you can contribute to this life-changing project:

1. Monthly Donations: Even a small, regular gift can provide ongoing support for the school and its students.
2. Sponsor a Classroom: You can choose to fund an entire classroom, giving children a safe space to learn and grow.
3. One-Time Donations: Whether it’s $20 or $250, your donation will go directly toward building the school and providing essential supplies.
4. Legacy Giving: Consider leaving a gift in your will, ensuring that your legacy includes giving children the opportunity for a better life.
5. Child Sponsorship: When you sponsor a child, you not only provide financial support but also create a meaningful connection that will last a lifetime.

The Impact of Your Support

Your contribution will have a lasting impact on the lives of these children. Not only will they receive an education, but they will also gain the skills and confidence they need to break free from the cycle of poverty. Education will empower them to become leaders in their communities, driving change for future generations. By supporting CHAB and our school project, you are not just donating—you are investing in the future of Cambodia.

Looking Forward: A Vision for the Future

When I think about the future, I see a thriving, empowered community in Bongkaung Village. I see children who are safe, educated, and full of hope for what lies ahead. I see families who are no longer forced to choose between survival and education. And most of all, I see a future where education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty for generations to come.

This school will be more than just a building; it will be a beacon of hope, lighting the way for a brighter, more equitable future.

Education is the most powerful tool we have to break the cycle of poverty. With your help, we can build a school that will change lives—not just for the 200 children who will attend, but for their families, their community, and future generations. Together, we can create a future where every child in Cambodia has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How will my donation be used?
   Your donation will go directly toward building the school, purchasing supplies, and providing resources for the students.
2. Can I visit the school once it’s built?
   Yes, we welcome supporters to visit the school and see firsthand the impact their donations have made.
3. How can I sponsor a classroom?
   You can sponsor a classroom by contacting CHAB directly. We will provide you with all the details you need to make a meaningful contribution.
4. What other projects does CHAB support?
   In addition to building schools, CHAB works on a range of projects, including healthcare initiatives, vocational training, and child protection programs.
5. Is my donation tax-deductible?
   Yes, CHAB is a registered non-profit, and all donations are tax-deductible.