In Andong, social workers play a crucial role in the family support programs of SCCO, DARA Europe’s partner organization. With dedication and empathy, they help families grow stronger and contribute to building a close-knit, resilient community. They guide youth in self-help groups, coach adults, and provide micro-loans. In doing so, they break the vicious cycle of poverty and create opportunities for a better future. One of these dedicated social workers is Theary. In an openhearted conversation, she shares her experiences and shows how her work transforms lives.
A new challenge every day
“No day is the same,” Theary says. “Every morning my colleagues and I start at the office to discuss the day ahead. Then I go to the Kork Rokar School to check which students are absent and talk to the teachers about it.” One of our goals is to increase class attendance and prevent early dropout. Since the school operates in two shifts, she conducts these checks both in the morning and the afternoon.
In the afternoons, Theary visits families to support them in the community fund program. “I implement several programs and help families on their way toward financial stability. At the end of the day, I prepare a report of my findings,” she explains. Her work is about much more than numbers and lists, it’s about people, opportunities, and building a future in which families can stand on their own.
The power of change
“I really see change,” Theary says proudly. “Parents now realize how important education is. They help their children more with school work and participate more actively in parent meetings.” Not only education, but also living conditions have improved. “Parents are paying better attention to hygiene and caring for their children. In addition, they are looking for work more often to provide a more stable future for their families.” The impact is also felt in the community as a whole.
“Compared to last year, there is less domestic violence. People are feeling stronger, taking responsibility and taking steps forward together.”
Gratitude that motivates
Sometimes the impact of her work is only really revealed through people’s own stories. “One mother told me how the community fund changed her life. Thanks to this community fund, she was able to expand her small business, send her children to school and create a more stable income for her family.”
It is this sincere gratitude that motivates Theary every day. “The way people share their feelings, the way they express their gratitude… It reminds me why we do this. It’s not just about financial support but about opportunities and a better future.” She smiles. “That’s what we work for.”
Thanks to the power of collaboration and the support of DARA Europe, SCCO continues building a community where people stand stronger. “Ultimately, we are all working toward the same goal: a better future for everyone,” Theary shares. With every step taken, hope grows in Andong. And thanks to the determined efforts of social workers like Theary, that hope is turning into tangible progress.
