While in the Netherlands the days are getting longer, spring is really beginning to arrive and temperatures are becoming milder, in Cambodia the thermometers are reaching highs of over 40 degrees Celsius. During this heat and lack of rain, Cambodia is celebrating the Khmer New Year, one of the country’s most important holidays, these days.
News from Cambodia
First phase of community center construction completed
After all the signatures in late 2023, construction of SCCO’s new community center in Andong could finally begin. During the working visit of team members Tirza and Jorik, the first piles were driven into the ground, an important and symbolic step towards change and progress.
The first phase went well, with the successful installation of the foundation and the first base of the building. We are currently committed to the second phase, in which all other structural work will be completed. We are still seeking additional funds for the final phase, which includes the completion of finishes related to electricity, toilets and other facilities. Do you know or work at a company that we can recommend? And will you also contribute to this important step for the community of Andong?
Working visit Tirza & Jorik
Tirza (initiator DARA Europe) and Jorik (president) spent three weeks on a working visit in Andong early this year. During workshops with the team, current programs were evaluated and plans for 2024 were discussed in detail. As a token of appreciation, Tirza and Jorik sponsored a team outing aimed at further strengthening team ties. Special attention was also paid to strengthening and coaching the management team, especially since the appointment of Sivorn (education manager), earlier in 2023.
This position, supported by DARA Europe, was created to meet the growing demand for educational activities in Andong and aims to further promote the professionalization of teachers, as well as the development of SCCO’s educational program and methodologies.
Besides team activities, Tirza & Jorik also spent time with the students and children from the former children’s center, who are still supported by SCCO. During the working visit, two of them moved into rooms in Phnom Penh and started their studies, a wonderful step towards independence.
Of course, the working visit included meetings with various stakeholders to review existing partnerships and explore new opportunities. This included the partnership between SCCO and the local Kork Rokar elementary school, which plays a crucial role in improving education in Andong.
Read more about this collaboration
News from the Netherlands
Own goal project of the Lenten Action
During Lent, a period of reflection and solidarity, DARA Europe was part of the Lent Action with its own purpose. With various churches, congregations and schools, money was raised for the project “More future opportunities for children in Cambodia.” A special compliment during one of the presentations was, “What a transparent foundation is DARA Europe, where the young children are reaping the benefits through your educational programs.” Thank you for all the support and involvement during this Lent.
Also in the news
Support in the team
To increase our impact and realize our goals, we are looking for additional support on our team of volunteers. Are you creative, communicative and passionate about sharing our mission?
We are happy to make your acquaintance. We are looking for support in the “marketing and communications” and “actions and events” working groups. So you can work on content creation for our social media and website. Or focus on organizing events and (online and offline) activities aimed at awareness and fundraising. Do you want to join?
Are you inspired? Donate now!
