Volunteering in Phnom Penh

Volunteering is an excellent way for expats to immerse themselves in the local community of Phnom Penh. Not only does it provide an opportunity to give back, but it also allows you to meet like-minded individuals, both locals and fellow expats, and gain a deeper understanding of Cambodian culture. The following guide highlights several organizations where expats might be interested in volunteering, each offering a unique way to make a positive impact.

Friends-International

Friends-International is dedicated to helping marginalized children and youth across Southeast Asia. They focus on providing education, training, and employment opportunities. Volunteers can assist in various programs, including teaching, childcare, and administrative tasks. The organization prefers volunteers who can commit to at least three months. However, shorter periods may be considered based on specific skills.

Website: friends-international.org
Location(s): Various locations in Phnom Penh
Time Commitment: Minimum of 3 months (or as agreed)

Pour un Sourire d'Enfant (PSE)

PSE works to provide food, shelter, medical care, and education to underprivileged children in Cambodia. Volunteers can teach English, help with extracurricular activities, or assist with administrative tasks. The organization seeks volunteers who can commit to at least three months, but shorter commitments may be possible depending on the role.

Website: pse.ngo
Location(s): PSE Center in Phnom Penh
Time Commitment: Minimum of 3 months (or as agreed)

Cambodian Children's Fund (CCF)

CCF aims to transform the lives of impoverished children through education, healthcare, and community development programs. Volunteers can support in various roles, including teaching, mentoring, and assisting with community projects. CCF prefers volunteers who can commit to at least six weeks, with longer stays encouraged.

Website: cambodianchildrensfund.org
Location(s): CCF facilities in Phnom Penh
Time Commitment: Minimum of 6 weeks

Samsara

Samsara is a non-profit organization that provides education and support to disadvantaged children and their families. Volunteers can help with teaching English, conducting workshops, or assisting with community outreach programs. Samsara welcomes volunteers for both short and long-term commitments.

Website: samsaracambodia.org
Location(s): Various locations in Phnom Penh
Time Commitment: Flexible (short and long-term)

Indochina Starfish Foundation (ISF)

ISF focuses on providing education, sport, and play opportunities to disadvantaged children. Volunteers can assist with sports coaching, teaching English, or helping with administrative tasks. ISF prefers volunteers who can commit to at least one month, with longer stays preferred.

Website: indochinastarfish.org
Location(s): ISF centers in Phnom Penh
Time Commitment: Minimum of 1 month

Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre

This rescue center is dedicated to the conservation and rehabilitation of Cambodian wildlife. Volunteers can help with animal care, enrichment activities, and educational programs. The center welcomes volunteers for both short and long-term commitments, with a minimum stay of one week.

Website: wildlifefriends.org
Location(s): Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre
Time Commitment: Minimum of 1 week

Sustainable Cambodia

Sustainable Cambodia works to improve the lives of rural Cambodians through community development projects. Volunteers can assist with education programs, agricultural projects, and water sanitation initiatives. The organization seeks volunteers who can commit to at least one month, with longer stays encouraged.

Website: sustainablecambodia.org
Location(s): Various locations in Phnom Penh and rural areas
Time Commitment: Minimum of 1 month

New Hope for Cambodian Children (NHCC)

NHCC provides care and support to children affected by HIV/AIDS. Volunteers can help with childcare, education, and community outreach programs. NHCC welcomes volunteers for both short and long-term commitments, with a minimum stay of one week.

Website: newhopeforcambodianchildren.org
Location(s): NHCC center in Phnom Penh
Time Commitment: Minimum of 1 week

Cambodia Knits

Cambodia Knits is a social enterprise that empowers marginalized communities through knitting. Volunteers can assist with product development, marketing, and training programs. The organization seeks volunteers who can commit to at least one month, with longer stays preferred.

Website: cambodiaknits.com
Location(s): Various locations in Phnom Penh
Time Commitment: Minimum of 1 month

Green Umbrella

Green Umbrella is an environmental organization focused on waste management and recycling. Volunteers can help with educational programs, waste collection, and recycling initiatives. The organization welcomes volunteers for both short and long-term commitments, with a minimum stay of one week.

Website: greenumbrella.org
Location(s): Various locations in Phnom Penh
Time Commitment: Minimum of 1 week

Banteay Srei

Banteay Srei supports women and young people to build safe and violence-free communities. Volunteers can assist with education programs, community development, and advocacy campaigns. The organization seeks volunteers who can commit to at least one month, with longer stays encouraged.

Website: banteaysrei.org
Location(s): Various locations in Phnom Penh
Time Commitment: Minimum of 1 month