Dear friends and supporters,
As we begin the new year, we want to express our deepest gratitude for your continued support. Your trust in our mission means more than words can express. We remain committed to bringing the greatest possible value to the communities we serve – children, parents, and teachers in rural Cambodia. During these past weeks of unrest between Cambodia and Thailand, we were reminded of just how essential our presence and our friendships are within our extended Cambodian community.
What Lies Ahead in 2026?
Leadership Growth – Our organization is growing, and with new growth comes new opportunities. Our team now consists of seven board members, a program director based in Battambang and a circle of dedicated advisors. We are united in our mission to enhance the future of Cambodian communities through education and opportunity. We aim to equip individuals with the tools they need to thrive, break the cycle of poverty, and build a brighter tomorrow for Cambodia. Meet our dedicated team.
Supporting Student Growth – In addition to our afterschool English program we will strengthen and expand our afterschool computer and science programs. At this time, most Cambodian public schools are unable to offer STEM lessons because resources and qualified teachers are scarce.
Health Education – By partnering with other organizations, we plan to bring health education into classrooms to prevent illnesses that disrupt students’ lives and school attendance. Good health is the foundation of learning.
Keeping Youth Active & Connected – We’ll continue supporting the youth soccer program. It is the community’s only organized youth sports program and a cherished space for joy, belonging, and teamwork for students and families alike.
A Milestone Celebration 20 Years! – We are particularly looking forward to celebrating our 20th anniversary in Prey Touch, the community where it all began, and where Bill and Nancy’s vision and commitment has brought tremendous advancements and lasting change. We warmly invite supporters to join us for this special milestone and witness the impact firsthand. Email us at: info@cambodianvillagefund.org to get updates on this adventure.
Staff Spotlight Our Country Program Director Zion Dyson
In her role as Country Program Director, Zion is exploring ways to strengthen our work, expand opportunities and ensure our programs remain relevant and impactful. We’re thrilled and grateful to have her on board.
Zion’s connection to the Cambodian Village Fund comes both through family and her own lived experience. As the granddaughter of Bill and Nancy, Zion has witnessed how their compassion and dedicated work changes lives in Cambodia. As a child, Zion would sometimes forego birthday presents in order to raise money for the charity. She visited Cambodia twice during her youth. Her former high school in San Diego partnered with CVF, participating in outreach and educational trips to the Prey Touch Commune.
From 2024 to 2025 Zion spent ten months in Battambang as a Fulbright Scholar. During this time, she evaluated and strengthened our English Language Program. She observed students and teachers in the classroom, assessed student learning and progress, and collaborated with teachers to enhance the program. She also brought fresh ideas to instructional practices and fostered a stronger sense of teamwork among the staff. Read Zion’s blog on our website.
Zion’s ten months in Cambodia were transformative. She fell in love with the culture, the community, and the emerging arts scene in Battambang. Curious and outgoing in nature, she quickly developed friendships with humanitarian workers from around the world. And, in a beautiful twist of life, she met Espen, an American English teacher with whom she now shares a home in Battambang.
