Returning from Cambodia

February 15, 2006

Beginning the Journey
I have returned from Cambodia and back into the world of motherhood and corporate life, but there is piece of my heart that remains in Cambodia. The conditions on every level in Cambodia are challenging, but the spirit of the Cambodian people is truly an inspiration. Everywhere I went, from the slums of Phnom Penh, to visiting street children and orphans in Sihanoukville, to the rural areas of the Takeo providence, the Cambodian people greeted me with warm smiles. I also have a new found appreciation of living in this wonderful country and the opportunities and freedoms that we all enjoy.

At times during my journey, I felt completely overwhelmed and defeated, not knowing where to start with the task of ending child trafficking. I knew this would be a process, but I had no idea the challenges that are involved - and they are huge. In order to stop the cycle of poverty that enables the child trafficking industry to exist, it will be necessary to create a stable and fair government, solicit industries to boost the economy, create new jobs and completely revamp the education system. Not exactly your normal "to do" list! So, I quickly decided that taking "baby steps", doing lots of research on existing resources and agencies, and good old-fashioned networking, was a better approach and more manageable.

Taking Action
During my trip I met dozens of enthusiastic Cambodian and international volunteers working with local non-government organizations (NGOs), working tirelessly to bring hope and a bridge to a better life for the vulnerable children in Cambodia. Their enthusiasm was contagious and I quickly started taking notes on funding and volunteer opportunities that could help accelerate the work of these NGOs.

I'm in the process of working with the NGOs to develop the first "wish list" that I will share with you. These will be tangible projects that can immediately impact the lives of the children. In the meantime, please continue thinking of organizations and people you can refer to sponsor items on the wish list. I plan to return to Cambodia once a year, so let me know if you want to join me on my next trip tentatively scheduled for January 2007.

Village Focus International, a Portland, Oregon-based NGO, accepts contributions on-line incase you don't want to wait until I publish the wish list. If your company has a matching gifts program, you can double your contribution! http://www.villagefocus.org/html/donate.cfm

Special thanks to Ken Huff, and the staff at VFI and VCAO for their time, enthusiasm and support during my trip. Thank you all for your interest, support and feedback on this vital issue.