Our ongoing goal is to create and support sustainable programs that deliver meaningful, lasting benefits to students and the broader community.
To better understand the needs of the community and evaluate the impact of our programs, we recently conducted a survey of scholarship students, parents, teachers, and community leaders. The survey covered our after-school English language, science, and computer programs, the college scholarship program, the international volunteer program, partnerships with other organizations, and health initiatives. It also included questions about our strategic direction and future growth. Several key themes emerged:
Expand access to after-school programs
The community expressed strong interest in expanding the after-school program to additional schools in the area. Currently, the program is offered at only one location, requiring students and caregivers to travel home by bicycle or motorbike after 7:00 p.m., often in the dark. Bringing the program closer to students’ communities would make participation safer and more accessible.
Considerations for growth: Expanding to additional schools will require funding for additional teachers and program resources.
Continue and strengthen college scholarship opportunities
Families shared that the college scholarship program has helped students access higher-paying careers and create new opportunities for their futures. Graduates are now working in fields such as teaching, accounting, and banking.
Considerations for growth: As career opportunities evolve, we want to explore expanding scholarship support to include a broader range of degrees and fields that prepare students for future job markets.
Expand scholarship opportunities to young men
Community members expressed that young men graduating from high school would also benefit from college scholarship opportunities. Providing this support would create more pathways for youth to pursue higher education.
Considerations for growth: Expanding the program to male students will require identifying safe and appropriate housing options in the city, as male students cannot live in the current women’s dormitory. We would need to explore partnerships with vocational and technical schools, which could provide practical career pathways for young men from farming families.
Expanding the International Volunteer Program
The community welcomes international volunteers, recognizing the value of “bringing the world into the village.” Volunteers gain firsthand insight into life in rural Cambodia while supporting our after-school science, computer, and English language programs. These cultural exchanges enrich both the volunteers and the local community.
Considerations for growth: As the volunteer program expands, a designated staff member will be needed to coordinate volunteer onboarding and support. Volunteers might experience differences in food, adjustment to the weather, and occasional communication barriers.
Recognize the importance of health and well-being
The community strongly values health programs and sees them as essential to student success. Families shared that good health supports students’ ability to attend school regularly, stay focused, and fully participate in learning. While education remains the community’s highest priority, health is recognized as an important foundation for children’s ability to learn and thrive.
Considerations for growth: Cambodian Village Fund’s primary focus has been education. Expanding health initiatives would require additional resources, partnerships, and program capacity.
The survey confirms that our programs are making a meaningful difference and highlights new opportunities for growth. With the generous support of our donors and volunteers, we can continue to invest in programs that reflect the priorities of the community and create lasting opportunities for students to learn, grow, and thrive.
If you have comments or questions please email us at: info@cambodianvillagefund.org