Cambodia – Family-Friendly Sustainable Community Development – Videos

Siem Reap is a welcoming city in northern Cambodia known as the gateway to the Angkor temple complex. The area combines a lively center with quieter village surroundings where volunteers stay, giving a close view of local daily life. Markets, small shops, and essential services are just a short bike ride from the accommodation. Cultural sites such as Wat Preah Prom Rath and Wat Thmey add depth to the city’s historic atmosphere. The climate is warm year round, with rainy months bringing greener scenery. Siem Reap remains one of the country’s most visited regions, yet still offers calm neighborhoods where community life feels genuine. It is a practical and engaging base for volunteers who want to explore Cambodian culture while contributing to local initiatives.

About the Program
Our education center offers free English classes to children aged 6 to 13, complementing their regular public school schedule, which only runs for four hours a day with limited English instruction. Students attend the center during their free time, either in the morning or afternoon, depending on their public school shift. The program follows an established curriculum that supports learners from beginner to level 5, ensuring all skill levels are accommodated. What makes the center special is that over 60 local children voluntarily attend, eager to improve their English and enjoy a supportive learning environment that encourages both academic and personal growth.

Volunteer Work
Volunteers will engage in classroom activities, informal teaching, and cultural exchanges with students. Beyond education, families can also take part in community projects, including school maintenance and gardening.

Teaching tasks may include:

• Lead English lessons using the school’s structured curriculum
• Assist with monthly progress tests
• Teach basic hygiene and sanitation practices
• Introduce simple cultural activities
• Help prepare materials and support students during class

Example itinerary: 

The itinerary is a general outline and may be subject to change based on local conditions, weather and program needs.

Holidays: During Cambodian holidays, public schools close, and regular classes at the education center pause. Volunteers will shift to community-focused activities, such as renovation projects, clean-ups, or special workshops. These periods also offer a chance to experience local festivals and cultural events. A detailed holiday list will be provided after your application to help plan your volunteer schedule.

Internet: Free Wi-Fi is available at the accommodation.

Laundry: Laundry can be done by hand or at a local laundromat for a small fee.

Accommodations: Families stay in private double/triple rooms equipped with air conditioning, mosquito protection, and attached bathrooms with hot showers. The accommodation is near small local stores and restaurants for convenience.

Food: Meals are provided three times a day during the week. The menu includes traditional Cambodian dishes with rice, vegetables, and occasional Western options. Families with dietary restrictions or/and picky eaters can inform us in advance for accommodations.

• Good level of English
• Police clearance for adults
• Motivation to work with children and contribute to the community
• Ability to adapt to a warm, humid climate
• Minimum age: 5 years old (with family participation

Cambodia is a fascinating country with a deep history and breathtaking landscapes. Families volunteering in Samraong have the opportunity to explore its wonders during free time and weekends.

• Angkor Wat: A must-visit UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest religious monument in the world (included)
• Bayon Temple: Famous for its serene stone-carved faces (included)
• Ta Prohm Temple: Known as the “Tomb Raider” temple, where nature and ruins intertwine (included)
• Cambodian Culture Week (Optional): Includes traditional cooking classes, temple visits, and language lessons
• Floating Villages: Visit a unique water-based community on Tonle Sap Lake
• Siem Reap Night Market: Enjoy local crafts, street food, and performances
• Buddhist Temple Visit: Learn about Cambodia’s spiritual traditions from local monks
• Local Parks and Gardens: Enjoy a peaceful escape in Samraong’s natural areas
• Traditional Khmer Cuisine: Experience authentic Cambodian flavors through local meals
• Community Connection: Meet friendly locals and learn about their way of life