We are pleased to share an update on the progress of our long-awaited community center in Andong. This center, built with a vision for the future, will provide a safe, modern and stimulating environment for SCCO’s many activities. This has been made possible thanks in part to the support of DARA Europe.
A dream becomes reality
In 2017, a piece of land was purchased on the outskirts of Andong. Years of careful planning and preparation followed, with the goal of building our own community center that could help the community grow. Currently, SCCO’s daily activities take place in an outdated and unsafe rental building that does not meet our needs. With the arrival of the new community center, these problems will be solved and make us less dependent on other external factors. Also, because of its location on the outskirts of Andong, there are opportunities to make SCCO’s offerings more accessible to a large group of people in the area.
A design for the future
2023 worked hard to design a multi-purpose building. Thanks to architecture firm Sromal who designed it at no cost to SCCO. The community center will provide flexible spaces for both SCCO’s existing and new programs, tailored to the growing needs of the community.
After a careful selection process, SCCO, in cooperation with DARA Europe, chose a contractor: Amara Design & Construction. Thanks to financial contributions from Wilde Ganzen, MOOV Logistics and Stichting Scholenproject Cambodja Rotterdam, local fundraising by SCCO and our donors from DARA Europe, construction of the community center could begin.
Construction progress
After the successful completion of the first phase, in which the foundation was laid and the first structural work was carried out, the foundation of the building is in place. In July, we started the second phase of our building project; the further structural finishing of the second and third floors. This phase was also made possible by Wilde Ganzen, our donors and new sponsors. We are happy to report that the contractor is happy with the progress and everything is going according to plan.
Moving to the next stage together
The SCCO team and the community in Andong are looking forward to the arrival of the community center. Although much has already been accomplished, there is still work to be done. For the third phase which focuses on finishing the building; such as installing all the electrics, toilets, kitchen, wooden windows and sliding walls, we are still looking for additional funds and donors. We are optimistic and determined to successfully complete this phase!
Together we are building a better future for the community in Andong. Thanks to your support, we can create a safe, inspiring and sustainable place to learn, play, work and grow. Will you do your part too?
Want to know more about construction plans, progress and opportunities for (financial) support? Then contact us and find out how you can help.
Our plan is to move in and open the building in February 2025. Would you like to be there? Send us a message.
