I was given a month long volunteer position at ANGKOR HOSPITAL FOR CHILDREN in the Capacity Building and Health and Education Program (CBHEP). This team takes a preventative approach to health care, working to both educate and improve rural health centers in the Siem Reap Province.
My role with CBHEP was to finish a report summarizing their 4 year project in one rural commune. After a day trip in the field with the team I was able to see how their 4 year intervention process had grown. Starting with a baseline survey the individual needs of the community were assessed and a program was designed based around improving child, maternal and environmental health. The team spends the majority of their time in the field empowering locals and encouraging self-sufficiency. I collaborated with a well-known American doctor on the project, and our work was recently presented to the board.
Though challenging at many points, my experience at AHC was very rewarding. To be involved in the final stages of a long term project and provide the CBHEP team with a resource that really highlights the impact of their work, was a fulfilling experience. Furthermore, I was introduced to a team of very dedicated, optimistic and passionate people who are committed to creating change in their country.
I’d like to extend my sincere thanks to Angkor Hospital for Children, especially the Capacity Building and Health and Education team for involving me in such a dynamic project. I would also like to thank Dr. Mike Wall, whose occasionally blunt but guided editing was invaluable.
Canadian Volunteer Alison Jackes
Summer 2014
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