GLOBAL GRANT IN CAMBODIA

 

I recently returned from a mission to Cambodia, where I witnessed the transformative impact of Rotary District 7430’s Global Grant GG2343143. This grant, focused on improving living conditions, has brought hope and better health to many families in the Pursat Region of Cambodia. I am thankful to the Allentown Rotary Club for contributing the initial funds to the Rotary Foundation in support of this project.

 

This is also a shining example of Rotary’s commitment to creating lasting change in communities around the world. The collaboration of the Rotary Club of Pursat and the non-profit organization of Sustainable Cambodia has been instrumental in driving these efforts. Sustainable Cambodia was founded in 2003 by Richard Allen, a member of the Rotary Club of Gainesville (D-6970), Florida. Sustainable Cambodia has been empowering rural Cambodian families by helping them create a sustainable quality of life with safe water and sanitation, sustainable incomes, healthy food, and quality education for their children.

 

On this trip, I had the profound experience of escorting Sok Yi, a Cambodian student my wife Alicia, a member of the Emmaus Rotary Club, and I have been sponsoring, back to her home in Cambodia after successfully undergoing scoliosis treatment at Shriners Children’s Hospital in Honolulu. I first met Sok Yi in person at the Rotary-sponsored Kravanh Bright Future Center school she was attending. This medical treatment, which involved Halo Traction and Spinal Fusion Surgery plus some major dental work and vision screening, was initiated by me and coordinated with the help of Rotarians on the Sustainable Cambodia volunteer Board of Directors and with Sustainable Cambodia staff in Pursat Province and funded by donations from Rotarians and other supporters worldwide, with Shriners Hospital for Children providing all medical services for free. Sok Yi’s journey culminated in her return home four inches taller, straighter and healthier. This marks a significant improvement in her quality of life, allowing her to live with greater comfort and now giving her the opportunity to further her studies in information technology at a university in Phnom Penh, where she is applying for a scholarship.

 

Interested in learning more? The 2nd Quarterly Report and photos from my visit are available online (Click on 2^ndQuarterly Report of Global Grant GG2343143  and Photos from Pursat Region)

We encourage all Rotarians to stay informed and continue supporting these vital efforts. You can also join a trip with other Rotarians to Cambodia sponsored by Sustainable Cambodia this November 2024 and January 2025 to see the positive impact Rotary is having on the children and villagers in rural Central Cambodia (click on link to Visit SC in Cambodia-Sustainable Cambodia Trips to learn more).

 

For more information and/or a presentation to your Club, contact Mike Orbin, Bethlehem Morning Star Rotary Club.