Do you have much love and empathy for the impoverished ill, be part of the movement to stave off the HIV/AIDS disease! The rate of the infection in Cambodia remains persistent, and because of this disease, many sole breadwinners have been lost, families have been plunged into poverty, and children have been orphaned.
As if the disease isn’t a heavy burden in itself, those inflicted with HIV/AIDS face discrimination in society and struggle to receive equal rights. Cambodians believe in Karma, and those with the disease are often locked away and do not get the support they so need.
This project is actively helping to not only help the victims, but increase awareness in the society. Although there have been a significant awareness program, the prevalence rate is still hovering about 0.8%, with many still needing solace from the disease.
As a volunteer, you’ll also play a part in making Cambodians aware of how the disease is spread, and hopefully able to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS in its tracks. Volunteer in Cambodia, and help in the fight against HIV/AIDS while experiencing the cultural and historical best that the nation can offer.
Volunteers’ Responsibilities
As a volunteer working in the HIV/AIDS project in Cambodia, you will be providing care to patients infected with the diseases and also engage the community in educational and training activities. Depending on your skills, experience and interests, and also the needs of the local staff, your daily activities involve, but are not limited to:
- Counseling infected patients
- Educating locals
- Assisting clinics/hospitals
- Increasing the personal risk perception among Cambodians through active participation in HIV/AIDS preventive education in the community
- Assisting community HIV/AIDS organizations with outreach programs such as hospice care, recreational and educational programs
- Treat small opportunistic diseases such as headaches, stomach aches, skin diseases or diarrhea
- Assisting with voluntary HIV counseling and testing
- Organizing and leading educational seminars and conferences about the virus
- Providing friendship to patients
- Take part in support groups for those who are infected
- Assisting local organizations with administrative and organizational tasks
- Fundraising
- Promote human rights and discourage discrimination
- Lead lessons on personal hygiene
- Promote health education and nutrition
How You Can Make a Difference
HIV/AIDS is a serious and deadly challenge faced by many countries in the world. For those living in poverty however, the challenge magnifies. By volunteering in Cambodia in the HIV/AIDS project, you’ll be helping in the campaign to halt the disease.
You’ll be helping the victims, who are unfortunately mainly children in community centers, orphanages, or in the village by raising awareness ad improving their access to social services. Besides helping them get better, you’ll also a form of support for the victims, who are often shunned by society.
A simple smile and a listening ear their way is often enough to motivate them to want to live life. This is also the perfect opportunity for you to gain experience in the healthcare industry. You’ll also be able to learn about the medical system in a developing country, and gain better understanding on how healthcare is perceived.
Skills and Qualifications
There is no specific education, experience, skills and/or qualifications needed to join our fight against HIV/AIDS in a volunteer project. Those with medical credentials will be able to help according to your certifications.
If you are interested in the healthcare field, this is a good opportunity to gain professional experience. However, volunteers are expected to be flexible and patient as well as passionate and have love for the poor and HIV-infected people of Cambodia.
Project Location
This project is located in Phnom Penh and Pursat.
Chaotic yet charismatic, Phnom Penh is the capital city of Cambodia. Amid the apparent poverty and depravity of the people, lies a historical treasure trove worth exploring.
For an eye-opening experience, visit The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21 Prison) and The Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, relics of the plight and the suffering of the people under the hand of the Khmer Rouge. The magnificent Royal Palace, The National Museum of Cambodia and Wat Phnom are less-disheartening visits.
Amidst the chaos, lies a laidback culture. Volunteers can take a pleasant stroll along the park-like riverfront, where plenty of cafes and restaurants are located - idyllic settings for you to kick back, relax and absorb the local culture.
Pursat is a beautiful city well-known amongst travelers for its adept marble carvers and oranges. Nearby, the waterfall and floating village of Kompong Luong is an attraction. Pursat also offers perfect access to the Tonle Sap Lake and the massive Cardamom Mountains, a magnificent ecological wonder.