Volunteer Care projects in Cambodia, work with children in orphanages, day-care centres, care homes and disabled centres

Volunteer Care work with children overseas in Cambodia

Volunteering in an orphanage in Cambodia - one of Asia's poorest countries - can be challenging but also incredibly rewarding. Whether you are on a gap year or coming to development work as an older volunteer on a career break or even during your retirement you will have a role to play and your contribution will be valued.

Although the civil war in Cambodia has long since finished, its legacy continues to haunt this beautiful country. Amputees begging in the streets are a common sight and a reminder of the devastation caused by landmines that were left behind.

Children remain particularly vulnerable, but by working and interacting with children in care homes, orphanages and street children centres you can help to improve their confidence and their future prospects. HIV and AIDS is a growing problem and has also contributed to the overcrowding of Phnom Penh's orphanages. Our volunteers work with the children lucky enough to be in these homes but also with those left out on the streets.

Voluntary Community Development and Orphanage work with Projects Abroad

We have a wide range of Care placements in Cambodia which are all worthwhile projects. If you want to do some overseas voluntary work that can really make a difference to peoples' lives, this is the project for you. Projects Abroad volunteers help on our Care placements in Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital city.

Volunteers usually start work between 8am and 9am, and finish by 4pm. Some volunteers who live close to their placement return home for lunch, otherwise it will be provided at the placement. Most volunteers work from Monday to Friday and have the weekends free to travel. However, occasionally an orphanage may arrange a football match or put on a show on a Saturday, where extra help would be appreciated.

Volunteering abroad on a Care Project in Cambodia

Volunteers are needed to help at the orphanages and care centres on a basic level, for example you may be washing and feeding the children or teaching them personal hygiene. On a social level, interaction, friendship and support are the key things you can offer when on this placement. Whether you are helping children complete their homework, playing sports or teaching them a new game, the time and attention you give to them is invaluable. Any skills or talents you have are welcomed.

Most of the orphanages in Cambodia are also keen for volunteers to teach some English to the children. Teaching young children songs, the alphabet and colours for example, would all be greatly appreciated. Some of the orphanages have their own schools on site, and if you are happy to help with more formal lessons you will be able to combine some teaching with the general care work.