It Takes a (Global) Village

In 2016 we set out to build libraries, not hand washing stations or rubbish incinerators. But we quickly learned that rural public schools in Cambodia are severely underfunded and lack many basic facilities for smooth operation. Our partner educators spoke, and we listened, because creating an environment for learning is so much more than books.

In partnership with the Rotary Club of Phnom Penh and private donors, we have not only been able to raise funds for rubbish incinerators and hand washing stations in schools, but we have been able to provide students with hand washing soap, toothbrushes, and toothpaste. We have also been able to provide computers for teachers, additional books for school libraries, and basic school supplies for all of our partner students.

And these efforts build on themselves over time.

Once the Rotary Club of Cochin-Milan (India) heard of our work, additional funds were contributed to purchase bicycles for economically disadvantaged schoolchildren to get to school. And when we learned that many of these same households lacked beds (wooden slats on a simple platform) and dry roofs on their homes, donors stepped in to fill that gap. Because in many places, learning is about far more than books.