Give Cambodian Young Adult orphans independence

Summary

Sangkheum Centre for Children, an orphanage that includes a 3.5 year program to prepare the young adults (16+) for independent life beyond the Centre and to enhance their ability to attain employment

What is the issue, problem, or challenge?

By 2011 we hope to support 34 young adults on this program. The first 2 years of the program prepare the 16-18 yr old orphans by providing extra-curriculum education unavailable at school to enhance the chance of employment & a permanent means of supporting themselves. Thereafter the program supports them in the early years beyond the orphanage, financially but also as guardians/advisers. This includes the rent & food costs as well as supporting them as they learn to cope on their own.

How will this project solve this problem?

Workshops on Health issues, domestic science, cash management, jobs & careers, sex education, IT skills, English, plus general skills such as decision making & self-awareness. A guardian in the early years of independence.

Potential Long Term Impact

Ultimately all children grow up, in the next 3 years some 34 young adult orphans will have to leave the orphanage. More will follow over time. This program helps them transition and make a permanent difference to their future.

Project Message

Without a program like this we may as well not have the orphanage if all it does is defer the time till the children/young adults are back living off the streets in poverty.
- Daniela Vagni, Project manager of Sangkeum Centre