For Mike, a trip more than a decade ago became the beginning of a lasting connection, along with a deep sense of meaning and the realization that helping in this way was truly worthwhile. Mike first learned about Cambodian Village Fund from his best friend Cameron Siskowic. Cameron told Mike that he and his family had decided to support an amazing charity that builds schools for impoverished young people who would otherwise lack access to basic education. Cameron invited Mike to travel to Cambodia to attend the opening of a new school that CVF had built. They were also going to distribute water filters to hundreds of families lacking clean drinking water. The CVF led tour was in 2014 and included several other travelers who were, like Mike, curious about Cambodia and the work that Bill and Nancy had started and wanted to expand.
“It was eye-opening to experience the greatness of the Khmer Empire at Angkor Wat, hear the horrific stories of the Khmer Rouge and recent genocide, see how Buddhism promotes healing and peace, and witness the kindness and humility of the Cambodian people. I was struck by the contrast between farming and city life, and, most importantly, the true meaning of systemic poverty and lack of education.” Mike shared.
It was the kind of journey that stayed with Mike. The contrast was striking – real hardship alongside real hope and kindness, and a deep longing for change among the Cambodian people. Mike saw that education offered the best chance for lasting transformation, empowering individuals to pursue a path out of poverty and build a brighter future for their communities. He began following the work of CVF and, before long, became one of its supporters.
Witnessing Progress and Building Futures – A Journey That Comes Full Circle
“In 2024 I went back, after 10 years, and was blown away by the impact. Thousands of kids each year now have safe school environments and spaces for early childhood education. Children are no longer locked into extreme poverty and subsistence farming with less than a sixth-grade education stretching into adulthood. The impact of the scholarship program is incalculable. It empowers young adults to pursue higher education in accounting, law, medicine, education – any dream, and help build a new economy and social pact for their country.
But there’s still more work to be done. Science, computer, and health education are critical to a modern education, and CVF works closely with schools to expand programs. Demand for college opportunities is growing. CVF’s dormitory model has already shown great success, but even so, the demand exceeds current capacities for scholarships and dorm spaces. More and more students are working hard in hopes of gaining access to higher education. That’s why I volunteered to join CVF’s new board. I want to help the organization turn its 20 years of knowledge and proven success into an institution that supports generational change for the future.”
Cambodia and its people, with their friendly, hopeful, and deeply grateful spirit, have a way of moving you. Their resilience, and the transformative power of education, make this work not only worthwhile, but profoundly meaningful to support. Come see the classrooms, meet the students, and witness the impact for yourself. You may arrive as a visitor, but you’ll leave with a deeper connection, a renewed sense of purpose, and the knowledge that your support can help shape the next generation of leaders in Cambodia.
Whether you join a CVF trip, volunteer your time, or support our programs financially, you are part of a story that is still unfolding. We can’t do it without you.
Cameron Siskowic And Family
In 2011, Cameron Siskowic reached out to see if he could help the Cambodian Village Fund. His grandmother had read about CVF in the newspaper and told him about our work, knowing of Cameron’s desire to help others. A former NFL football player, Cameron quickly showed us that a true hero is not measured by physical strength, but by the size and generosity of his heart. Cameron initiated CVF’s Safe Drinking Water Project, which provided more than 1,000 families in eight villages with access to clean drinking water. In recognition of his commitment and the generosity of his family, the Siskowic Learning Center was built in Kaun Klong village, a beautiful primary school that serves hundreds of children. Through his enthusiasm and leadership, Cameron inspired his friends and colleagues to support CVF as well. Following his lead, their generosity made it possible to build five additional schools where classrooms were urgently needed. We remain deeply grateful for Cameron’s generosity, inspiration, and compassionate spirit.
We Invite You Join Us On A Trip To Cambodia.
This December, we are offering a CVF led trip to Cambodia and our area of impact near Battambang. Join us to experience firsthand the impact our work has made, and continues to make, in the lives of students, families and their communities. Join our December 2026 trip. Please email us to inquire about the trip and receive tour updates.