Education Cambodia Project #62353

Being a kid IS their job!

by ABCs and Rice

Project Report | Dec 12, 2024
2024 is going out with a bang!

By Tammy Durand | Founder

Hello everyone,

I am thrilled to share some exciting updates from ABCs and Rice! Our brand new playground is finally complete, and it is everything we dreamed of and more. The highlight of this playground is a large, school bus-shaped swing that is completely wheelchair accessible. This swing is my pride and joy, and seeing the children enjoy it fills my heart with immense happiness.

Our previous playground was quite old and had become a concern. In response to my sadness over this, some wonderful friends came together to make my dream of a wheelchair accessible swing a reality. This generous act set into motion the creation of our dream playground. With the help of our Australian friend, Matt at the helm, and an overwhelming response to our fundraising call, we were able to complete this beautiful new playground. It has been a huge hit with the children, and we are planning an official opening and fundraiser in the community in the upcoming weeks. I can't express how beautiful it is to see the children playing, sharing, getting excited, and just being kids.

In October, we welcomed Soul Flow Journeys and Heart Revival, led by our dear friend and long time sponsor Vanessa from the USA to our lovely village in Siem Reap. They offered workshops for the students in sports, arts, health, and other activities. Their financial support included playground equipment, classroom sponsorships, and much much. more. They are a special group, who are already missed.

I recently visited Canada for some fundraising activities. I had the pleasure of meeting with several Rotary Clubs and various classrooms to discuss our work at ABCs and Rice and the need for further support. Talking to the children was a highlight for me; I really enjoyed it, and I believe they did as well. Despite my dislike for public speaking, the Rotary Club meetings went very well. The Rotarians were kind, supportive, and receptive to our message, and we look forward to working with them in the future.

Our new board in Canada, led by our returning President, Lindsey, organized not only these meetings but also a wine and cheese silent auction night. This event was a lot of fun, raised much-needed funds for ABCs and Rice, and increased awareness of our cause.

Additionally, some very close friends and long-standing ABC supporters organized an incredible night of laughs, smiles, and music in my hometown of Capreol. It was a music bingo night on a Friday, and it could not have been more successful. I was thrilled to catch up with old friends and acquaintances. Everyone had a blast singing along, and the community support was humbling, with roughly $3,000 CAD raised from a night at a local bar. I am so honored to be part of such a supportive community.

November saw our sister organization, Cambodian Rice Run from Australia, come to visit all their projects, including ABCs and Rice. The highlight for me was when they took our three senior levels on a field trip to the aquarium. The children prepared projects beforehand and had worksheets to complete during their tour. At the end, they were rewarded with a meal at a local restaurant. This was a first for many of these children, who had never been to a restaurant or an establishment like the wildlife aquarium, which is world-class. The children were well aware of what an amazing gift this was, and it brought tears to our eyes as they thanked the donors.

Thank you all for your continued support and for making these dreams a reality for our children.

Warm regards,

Tammy Durand

Founding Director, ABCs and Rice

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Aug 13, 2024
Empowering Futures in Siem Reap

By Tammy Durand | Founder and Director

ABCs and RiceEmpowering Futures in Siem Reap, CambodiaDear Valued Donors,

We are thrilled to share the remarkable progress made by ABCs and Rice in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Your unwavering support has transformed lives, and we invite you to celebrate these heartwarming milestones:

Community Engagement and Environmental Awareness:

Our recent Dr. Seuss environmental movie screening brought the entire community together. Popcorn in hand, families gathered under the starlit sky to learn about caring for the earth.
Each child at ABCs and Rice received a Seedling eggplant plant—a symbol of growth, resilience, and sustainability.

Empowering Young Women:

We’ve connected our women’s empowerment class with Cambodia’s first-ever women’s football club. These girls now see themselves as future leaders, breaking barriers on and off the field.
Thirty girls attended the inaugural game, inspired by the possibilities that lie ahead.

Nursing Station and Outreach Programs:

Our nursing station continues to collect vital data and provide care to children and families in need. Your support ensures their well-being.
Outreach programs in local villages extend our impact, reaching those who need it most.

Dedicated Volunteers and Board Members:

Volunteers Paul, Matt, and Mark have become integral parts of our ABCs and Rice family. Their commitment fuels our mission.
Our Canadian governing board is evolving, with Lindsay returning as chair and a passionate team driving positive change.

Your Continued Support Matters:

ABCs and Rice thrives because of donors like you. Together, we can create brighter futures for these resilient children. Consider renewing your support today—every contribution makes a difference.

Thank you for believing in our mission. Let’s keep empowering dreams, one child at a time.

With gratitude, Tammy Durand

Founder

ABCs and Rice

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Apr 17, 2024
2024 Off to a Great Start

By Tammy | Founder and Director

ABCs and Rice: Making Strides Since December

Hello, wonderful ABCs and Rice supporters! Let’s catch up on the fantastic progress we’ve made since last December. Buckle up, because it’s been quite a ride!

Belgium Intern Agreement We’ve been lucky to have enthusiastic volunteers all the way from Belgium join our cause. These awesome folks have rolled up their sleeves and dived right into making a difference. Our partnership with KDG university has been like a magical knowledge exchange potion. Since 2017, university teaching students have been getting hands-on experience with us, and our teachers have been soaking up wisdom like sponges. But in 2020, our intern group had to dash off halfway through their placement because of—you guessed it—the pandemic. But…. They’re back this year, and it’s like having four secret weapons in our mission to empower kids and communities.

School Progress: Where Dreams Take Flight Our school project is soaring! The kids? Oh, they’re not just learning; they’re acing it! Imagine little minds lighting up with curiosity, resilience, and a hunger for knowledge. Our dedicated teachers are superheroes, providing top-notch education and creating a positive vibe in the classroom.

Emergency Food Services: Because No One Should Go Hungry Challenges? We’ve faced a few. But we’ve kept our emergency food services going strong for around 50 families. When tummies rumble, we’re there with a bowl of hope.

Community Clinic: Where Healing Happens Hold onto your hats, because Kid Care—the coolest community clinic in town—has some news! We’ve expanded our services, reaching even more in need. Families are getting better access to medical care, and health education is spreading like wildfire. Plus, our sister organization, Cambodian Rice Run, has our back at least until June.

Post-Covid Recovery: The Comeback Crew The pandemic tried to knock us down, but we’re like those spring-loaded toys—you push us down, and we bounce right back up! Our community’s resilience is shining through as we dust off our knees and keep moving forward.

Rising Rice Costs: Our Grainy Challenge Rice prices? Oh boy, they’ve been a nightmare! But fear not, dear supporters. We’re committed to our mission. We’re feeling the pressure, but we won’t crack. We do however need your help to keep our rice programs thriving and bellies full.

Upcoming Fundraising in Canada: Maple Syrup Meets Compassion Canada, get ready! We’ve got some exciting fundraising plans brewing. Depending on your support, and the alignment of the stars, we’re aiming for impact. If you’re up for making magic happen, reach out—we’d love to have you on our team!

Thank you, thank you, thank you! You—yes, you—are part of this incredible journey. Your generosity and commitment give wings to our mission every single day. Let’s keep changing lives together!

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