Volunteer in Cambodia

I loved every minute of my program and feel super lucky to have been placed at the school I was. I am so glad I went ahead and did this and to anyone who is hesitant I would say you have to just go for it!

Cambodia is definitely a hidden gem. The amount of history and culture that the Khmer people share with foreigners is amazing. My work at the daycare was one of the most fun experiences I’ve ever had. The amount of joy and love the kids gave me is a gift that I am profoundly thankful for. The city of Phnom Penh is busy and loud but very safe. Nights spent with other volunteers exploring and enjoying the nightlife has created friendships that will last long beyond our volunteer periods.

It was an encouraging experience, to be welcomed so warmly, to be able to work with locals and to help students in a meaningful way. Very happy with the experience.

I had ample guidance and preparation resources that allowed the trip to go smoothly, and I travelled to Cambodia with confidence due to the help I received prior to departing. The local team was a friendly and knowledgeable group. They all made sure that we were happy and taught us many things about the local culture and were very time oriented.

This opportunity has made me realize that so much joy comes from volunteering and helping those around you. I will most likely be volunteering with IVHQ again in the future.

I gained confidence, new friends, a better resume, a connection with the students and school, and so much more. If someone is feeling hesitant about joining, they should follow their instincts and think about why they are looking into volunteering abroad. This route is affordable and safe. Traveling abroad this way allows you to have connections with the locals that can speak the language and help you in any situation.

The Program Guide is very thorough. It was easy to return to sections to double check details. I definitely gained an awareness of the reality for teachers in a third world country. They worked extremely hard with so few resources. I discovered that the Cambodian people with whom I worked with are so very resilient and well intentioned. Their circumstances are so very different from our first world circumstances they have no frame of reference, but were very eager to learn. I benefited tremendously from the experience, more than I anticipated. While I was there to help, which I believe I did, I received much in return.

I am very happy with all the help provided by the IVHQ team. The local team was always available to help with any questions or issues. I did not have any issues and all of my time in Cambodia was great, from the start to the end.

I have given the info about IVHQ to many people, even before I went to Cambodia. I will have no problem telling everyone and showing my experiences in photos.... I loved it!!!