WE Don't accept volunteers and heres why

[phuketrichard]

More Cambodians should look at healing their country
not filing their bank books


Thanks for your generous offer, however….

Over the past year, we have been approached numerous times by people wishing to volunteer at Human and Hope Association. Whilst we do appreciate the generous offers, as a team, we have decided to no longer accept volunteers at Human and Hope Association. This procedure is in place for a number of reasons.

Empowerment of staff – Our mission is to empower Cambodians to create sustainable futures. We believe in applying this not just to our beneficiaries, but to our staff as well. Therefore, it is important to give our staff the opportunity to thrive in their roles and gain confidence. We have seen firsthand that when volunteers come into organisations, this can often be disempowering, as the local staff believes that they cannot fulfill their jobs without the support of foreigners. We believe that local people are the subject matter experts, as they are the ones who know the country and traditions best. By promoting team work amongst the locals, they can learn from each other and not become reliant on foreigners.

read more here;
http://www.humanandhopeassociation.org/ ... r-however/

[vladimir]

The NGO I worked at take son foreigners for a maximum of two years, but usually one. After that a Khmer takes over.

Still use volunteers for listening and speaking English skills.

Very few expats in permanent positions.

[phuketrichard]

i don't think its the max time that is a concern but when they come for a week, 2 weeks than leave, it disrupts everything,
personally i think better their way, NO Barangs at all

Am sure there are plenty of Cambodians that speak english ( although how many wish to volunteer?)

I hate all these pay to volunteer organizations!!

[Jacobincambodia]

There is room and a place for western volunteers. It's all about having the right regulations and procedures in place.

[Joon]

My organization still needs a native English-speaking volunteer because our materials are published in Khmer and English, and our advocacy work brings us on the international stage as well. So our written English has to be edited and excellent. Plus, the volunteer is expected to help staffs to improve their English level.

But good on Human and Hope Association for focusing on Cambodians.