Off the Plane and Into Northern Laos Villages

It's been four years since my last visit to Laos, and I must say I have been eager to get back ever since...and thanks to Steve Rutlege, a fellow-Rotarian from Ontario - there are reasons to be back here that can get some beneficial projects going for the small villages in the remote Northern hill villages of Laos!

Before you read on - check out Steve's Blog at: http://adoptavillageinlaos.blogspot.com/

Adopt a Village in Laos is a non-profit Canadian organization building wonderful schools and providing vital clean water to these small remote villages. We'll be seeing many of these projects and intended future projects - one of them being a VERY exciting prospect - A Muskoka School site in the village of Hat Kham, by the Ou river near the northern boundry line between Phongsali and Luang Prabang provinces. More on that project in future postings.

Pauline Johns and I spent a very special Christmas Day. We took a flight to Luang Prabang which saw us arrive there at 6pm. We were met by Steve and Mike and a host of friendly Laos friends who wisked us away to Steve's lovely house (The 'Hilton' compared to some of the villages we stayed at in Cambodia)here in Luang Prabang.

After a toast to the season, it was time to enjoy a restaurant celebatory meal. We all caught up on projects at hand in Laos and Cambodia, and it was about midnight until my mind settled down enough to sleep...I was just so wound up with all the plans ahead that could transpire into such meaningful projects for the children here.

Next morning, Steve had the day planned with our first trips into the villages. Laos has got to be one of the most beautiful countries on earth - these hills in the north are lush, water is abundant, and a climate that is much more bearable than Cambodia.

Rich in beauty, but unfortunately that's where the weath ends. Laos is a struggling developing country seeing far less organizations at work in the rural areas than it's surrounding countries. There is a serious lack of schools and many that are operating are unsafe for the children attending.

Our first visit was to Xieng Nguen District School. Over 1300 students attend there 3 wooden structures that have main beams so badly infested with termites, it will soon pose a danger to the students attending. Four of the classrooms have been 'added on' under the floor beams resulting in 4 dungeon classrooms where children can barely see the blackboard at the front of the school. Steve's got a great plan that will save these students from there presently over-crowded, unsafe classrooms.

Next, it was off to Na Dad village where Steve is investigating a possible solution for a clean water source for the families there. At the top of the mountain, water flows down the mountain into a generating station and then continues into a river which flows through small villages alongside the water. Halfway down the river, there is a pig farm! Every bacteria you can think of from that pig farm is flowing down that river and is the water source for the people living alongside!

Some of the villagers have dug rusty steel wells right beside the river. We suppose that they think that that is a clean source of water, but it really is only the same river water that is a few feet away!

Last stop of the day has been recorded on video, which I'll have linked up to this site soon. A visit to a thoroughly neglected district clinic.

Many challenges, most that can be solved through the provision of education, schools and provision of clean water.

So many children here need bicycles to get to school. Steve and I will be investigating the logistics to provide some future Rotary Wheels for Learning bicycles to the rural children here.

A Mine Free World Foundation Board Members, Pauline and I are here to also investigate the needs of landmine victims here. There is apparently a whole village of landmine survivors living together that we'll be visiting.

We are off to more nearby villages tomorrow, and then after that we'll be making a 3-day trek by land, water and foot into some more remote areas up the Ou river.

A Mine Free World Foundation: Canadian Landmine Foundation Funds Businesses for Landmine Survivors

Cambodian 'Muskoka School' Children Receive Bicycles

On December, 22nd here in Ta Trav village,Siem Reap district, 20 students receive bicycles funded by the volunteer endeavors and donations by the citizens and Rotarians in Muskoka, Ontario, Canada. US$3,500 was raised through A Mine Free World Foundation's Giant Garage Sale in Muskoka towards 100 bicycles for rural children in this area lacking transportation to get to school. The Trailblazer Foundation, here on the ground in Cambodia is conducting this vital project. For info:schoolsforcambodia@gmail.com

THANK YOU MUSKOKA

Cambodian ‘Muskoka School’ Students Receive Bicycles

Christmas has come two days early to 20 students here in Ta Trav village in rural Siem Reap province.

This past summer, a Giant Garage Sale was held at the Curling Club in Gravenhurst, resulting in US$3,500.00 raised for 100 bicycles for area children at the Muskoka School in Cambodia.

Thanks to the generosity of Muskoka citizens and Rotary Clubs, a bicycle project is now in place for 100 area children who lack the transportation to get to school.

The project saw funds raised through A Mine Free World Foundation http://www.aminefreeworld.org/ . The organization on the ground here in Cambodia handling the distribution program is the US Charity ‘The Trailblazer Foundation’ http://www.thetrailblazerfoundation.org/

Many Thanks to Scott and Chris Coats and Ung Rattana of the Trailblazer Foundation for the implementation of the project here in Cambodia.

Today saw the second lot of twenty bicycles distributed to students at the school here. Most of the students who received bicycles were those that will be going to a secondary school next year. At the Bicycle Distribution Ceremony, the Commune Chief urged them to use these bicycles to continue and further their education.

The ‘Muskoka School’ was built by the Trailblazer Foundation in 2009. Muskoka residents and Rotary Clubs raised over US$20,000 towards this school-building project.

Two more days to go until Christmas Day – when Pauline and I will be on a flight to Luang Prabang in Laos to meet fellow-Rotarian Steve Rutledge from Ontario who is building schools and providing clean water to the villages in the hills there. I’ll be there one month. Check Steve’s blog: http://adoptavillageinlaos.blogspot.com/

A Mine Free World Foundation - Etobicoke Rotary Meal Plan

A four month Meal Plan at Big Love School in Trapeang Thum village, Takeo province, Cambodia sponsored by the Rotary Club of Etobicoke Ontario. 70-80 children receive a nutritious hot meal of rice, meat, and vegetables six days a week. The children's weight has increased since the induction of the Meal Plan. Cost is aprox. $20/day to feed the children, plus start-up costs. After today's meal these children will receive Dental Hygiene education from Cambodian Dentist Dr. Khom Pisal, plus tubes of toothpaste and toothbrushes sponsored by funds raised by Rotarians in Gravenhurst and Huntsville, Ontario. Projects conducted by A Mine Free World Foundation, Canada.

For information on supporting a meal plan for impoverished rural children in Cambodia, contact: schoolsforcambodia@gmail.com.

Business Support for Landmine Survivors in Cambodia - Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Etobicoke

Click on above photo to view 13 Landmine Survivors who were provided with occupational and vocational support funded by the Rotary Club of Etobicoke.

11 businesses and 2 vocational courses were supplied to Landmine-affected families in Koas Krala district, Battambang province on November 19th, 2010. Total Project Cost for these 11 businesses and 2 courses was US$2,038.00. This was part of 'A Mine Free World Foundation's' PROJECT BATTAMBANG, which saw 32 businesses implemented, 2 vocational courses provided, educational support for 14 students provided and bicycles distributed by A Mine Free World Foundation and Rotary Wheels for Learning. To help support a landmine-affected family please email: schoolsforcambodia@gmail.com

Educational Support for 14 Students from Landmine-affected Families in Cambodia

Click on above photo to view 14-students from landmine-affected families supported by the Canadian Landmine Foundation

Over the past three weeks A Mine Free World Foundation board members Pauline Johns, Lisa McCoy and Un Vanthon have been busy implementing projects in Battambang and Takeo provinces here in Cambodia.  There are many updates to post!

The first stage of educational, vocational and occupational support has been implemented in Battambang province for landmine-affected families.  This undertaking is supported by the Canadian Landmine Foundation and the Rotary Club of Etobicoke. 

In Takeo province, we've visited Big Love School where the Rotary Club of Etobicoke has sponsored a four month meal plan for over 70 children.  We've also spent the past couple of days with Dr. Khom Pisal visiting area schools where she teaches the children Dental Hygiene and where we have distributed about 1,500 tubes of toothpaste and toothbrushes. Thanks to Rotarians from Huntville and Gravenhurst for supporting this ongoing successful program.

All our team members have experienced great joy as we travel about Cambodia providing bicycles for children, self-sustainability to families affected by landmines, and educational support to students in need.

Keep tuned to this blog as I try to update all these continuing projects.  November was a busy month:

On November 20th, 2010, landmine-affected families received educational, occupational and vocational support. Funded by the Canadian Landmine Foundation, these 14 students in Koas Krala district, Battambang province have received bicycles, 2 sets of school uniforms, school supplies, school bag and a meal a day for two years. This is a part of 'Project Battambang', conducted on the ground here in Cambodia by 'A Mine Free World Foundation' www.aminefreeworld.org/ board and volunteers. Thanks to the Koas Krala District Office of the Cambodian Red Cross who helped identify these students in need, and is continuing to monitor their needs in the area.

Dental Hygiene Education and Supplies for Hundreds of Cambodian Children

Dr. Khom Pisal from the Angkor Dental Association in Siem Reap teaches valuable dental hygiene to over 300 children at a rural school location in Koas Krala district, Battambang province, Cambodia. This A Mine Free World Foundation project was realized thanks to generous help and support from Bill & Dora Rathbun and Cathy Jordan and members of the Rotary Club of Huntsville, Ontario, Canada. Our team went to 2 more village locations where hundreds more were taught and received toothbrushes and toothpaste. Help us do more! We want to help 300 children at a dump in Phnom Penh receive this help. To donate, please see: http://dentalhygieneforcambodianchildren.blogspot.com/

Cambodian Landmine Families Receive Support and Learn Dental Hygiene

On November 20, 2010 vital support was provided for 52 landmine-affected families in Koas Krala District, Battambang province, Cambodia. Dr. Khom Pisal from the Angkor Dental Association teaches dental hygiene and dental supplies provided to all through generous support from the Rotary Club of Huntsville. 34 businesses provided to families and educational support for children funded by the Canadian Landmine Foundation and the Rotary Club of Etobicoke. Projects conducted by A Mine Free World Foundation. Rotary Wheels for Learning provided 24 of these bicycles to children of landmine survivors. This has been the first self-sustainable support many of these people have received.

You small donation of $5 could provide dozens of toothbrushes and toothpaste for rural families in Cambodia....dental education is vital and non-existant in the rural areas of Cambodia. 

A Mine Free World Foundation,
906 Fung Pl.
Kitchener, ON
N2A 4M3

‘Project Battambang’ Plans Underway Here in Cambodia

Greetings to all from Phnom Penh! It certainly is good to be back here and involved in project plans that will be of benefit to landmine-affected families and impoverished children throughout Cambodia.


The monsoon floods have subsided, but there are still days where a raincoat is needed. When living in a hot, humid country of 80 to over 90 degree temperatures; cloudy days with a little rain are a welcome break.


Plans are underway for several projects that will take us into the remote areas of Takeo and Battambang districts.


With generous support from the Canadian Landmine Foundation and the Rotary Club of Etobicoke, 50 landmine-affected families will each be provided with educational, vocational or business support.


A Mine Free World Foundation (AMFWF) board member, Pauline Johns arrived from Australia earlier this week. Along with Un Vanthon and family and assisted by Red Cross worker Sophany in Koas Krala district in Battambang province, plans are well underway for our trip to Battambang on November 19th to provide this vital support for these 50 families.


You can view an album of these 50 landmine survivors and their families at this link:
Photos of 50 Landmine-Affected Families

On this 291km road trip from Phnom Penh, our vanload of volunteers will be accompanied by a truck carrying supplies for 32 businesses, 29 bicycles and school supplies for 14 students. The same local team of volunteers who conduct the AMFWF and Rotary bicycle distributions will conduct the first stage of this project along with 3 volunteers in Koas Krala.


A special volunteer will be also coming along – Dr. Khom Pisal from Siem Reap. She has had years of experience in teaching dental hygiene to rural families throughout Cambodia. She will be volunteering for Project Battambang as well as teaching dental hygiene at at least two scheduled sessions in Koas Krala – one for the 50 landmine-affected families on November 20th and another at a local school location. Thanks to generous funds raised through the efforts of Rotarians Bill Rathbun, Cathy Jordan and members of the Rotary Club of Huntsville, over 2,700 tubes of toothpaste and toothbrushes will be distributed to rural families in Koas Krala and Takeo province districts. For more details, click here:
Dental Hygiene for Cambodian Children

In August of this year, AMFWF board member and local project coordinator, Un Vanthon made a trip to this remote area of Battambang province to identify 50 families in need of assistance. Working with district, commune, village officials and Sophany, Vanthon and a team of three local volunteers visited the homes of these landmine survivors to conduct an initial needs assessment. Care was taken to investigate each family’s distinct needs. Families without any sustainable income were interviewed to assess skills and personal interests to determine which village-level businesses could bring improvements to their lives. Families which already had an operating small business were assessed for business needs that would improve their existing businesses.


Each of these families lived in conditions that you and I cannot imagine. Most rural people live far below the poverty level, but landmine survivors are at the very bottom. Most are treated as outcasts in their villages as there still remains a strong, superstitious belief among rural people that landmine victims have befallen their fate due to bad luck associated with them.


Landmine survivors deal with social, psychological and physical hardships. But for these 50 families, there will be a marked improvement in the quality of their lives through the provision of education and self-sustainability.


32 families will receive supplies and start-up capital to implement a small business, or, supplies and capital to make improvements to their existing business.


Two landmine survivors will receive a year-long motorcycle repair course which will enable them to acquire a job at local shop, or with some help, eventually open their own small enterprise.


The following 20 businesses will be supported through grant funding from the Canadian Landmine Foundation:


9 Chicken Rearing Businesses


1 Barber Business


4 Bicycle Repair Businesses


1 Carpentry Business


5 Small Food Stall Businesses


The following 13 businesses and courses are sponsored by the Rotary Club of Etobicoke:


6 Bicycle Repair Businesses


1 Watch Repair Business


1 Television Repair Business


2 Small Food Stall Businesses


2 Motorcycle Repair Courses

1 Barber Business

The ladies of Daphne’s Drop In at the Women’s Resource Center in Bracebridge are sponsoring a Sewing Business for a landmine survivor.


Costs for these small businesses cost between US$100-150 each, and include capital. For example: each $125 Chicken rearing business will receive 10kg of small chickens, a chicken basket and capital to buy more chickens and build a wooden chicken house on their property. Chickens are free-range in Cambodia, so there is no need to buy feed.


Please consider sponsoring one of the 16 remaining landmine-affected families in a small business that will lift them out of poverty. For more information you can contact me at: schoolsforcambodia@gmail.com . You will receive biographical information on your sponsored family and will receive a photo of them with their new business.


Pauline, Vanthon and I will be revisiting the current 34 recipients in a few weeks after they receive their supplies and support to document the improvements these vital businesses have made in their lives. We’d be so happy to be able to supply more businesses to the remaining families at that time!

Give the Gift of Self-Sustainability to a landmine-affected family this holiday season.


Cheques can be made out to ‘A Mine Free World Foundation’ and please write ‘Small Business Support’ in the memo field.

MAIL TO:

A Mine Free World Foundation
906 Fung Place,
Kitchener, On, Canada
N2A 4M3

Many Thanks Everyone!

Phnom Penh Monsoon Video

Just got out of Kandal Province in Cambodia which has been under over one-meter high floodwaters for over 3 days. It is the worst flooding my friend Vanthon has seen in his 50 year lifetime.
I have never experienced such rain and the after affects of the severe flooding. It is quite an experience to sit helplessly and watch hour-after-hour for the flooodwaters to recede.
After three days, I've watched everything go into the water that you have no choice but to walk in.
No electricity. No drainage. No functioning toilets. No way to safely wash.
I now have small insight into what long-term flood victims must go through.

$15,000 For Cambodian Landmine-Affected Families From Canadian Landmine Foundation

A Mine Free World Foundation would like to thank the Canadian Landmine Foundation (CLMF) http://www.clearlandmines.com/ for its recent approval of a grant of $15,000 that will go a long way to help landmine-affected families in Battambang province, Cambodia.



Plans are underway to provide a number of the 50 identified families in Koas Krala district (see previous blog entry) with small self-sustainable businesses and educational support for their children.


Through the support of this grant along with funding from the Rotary Club of Etobicoke, up to 30 of these families will be provided with rural small businesses such as bicycle repairs, vegetable farming, noodle-making, sugar cane drink stalls, clock & watch repairs, chicken farming, barber and hairdressing shops – just to name a few.


Amongst the 50 of these families, 14 children will receive bicycles, two sets of school uniforms, school supplies and fees and breakfast daily for 2 years.


Another 8 children from these families will receive bicycles from the support of generous individual donors of A Mine Free World Foundation.


A trip to Battambang is planned for the first part of November to distribute this support to these identified landmine affected families.


Through the Rotary Wheels for Learning   http://rotarywheelsforlearning.blogspot.com/ program of the Rotary Club of Gravenhurst, donations are currently being sought for 75 bicycles for children of these families and other impoverished children in this rural area.


I arrived in Phnom Penh 3 days ago to begin 6 months of volunteer work here. Local volunteers Un Vanthon and family and myself have been busy getting plans in place for next weekend’s Rotary Wheels for Learning bicycle distribution of 75 bicycles for rural children in Trapeang Tasome village in Takeo district.


Buy A Silk Scarf for $20 – Support Dental Hygiene for Rural Children!


Our Team will be making numerous trips to Battambang and Takeo districts this winter and accompanying us on some of these trips will be Cambodian Dentist Dr. Khom Pisal.

Please visit: http://dentalhygieneforcambodianchildren.blogspot.com/ .

Your purchase of a pure silk Cambodian scarf can provide dental hygiene education, toothbrushes and toothpaste for countless rural children and their families.


Help Support A Mine Free World Foundation’s work for rural landmine-affected children and their families. Your donations can go a long way to help these rural families out of their life of poverty.

To Donate, send your cheque to:


A Mine Free World Foundation


906 Fung Place,


Kitchener, On, Canada


N2A 4M3

A Mine Free World Foundation/Rotary Club of Etobicoke Sponsored Meal Plan in Trapeng Tasome Village,

Click on this photo to view full picasa web album, or click on the link below:

http://picasaweb.google.com/schoolsforcambodia/AMineFreeWorldFoundationRotaryClubOfEtobicokeSponsoredMealPlanInTrapengTasomeVillage#

Approximately 75 children (sometimes more!) are receiving a warm meal a day for 4 months at
Big Love School #2 in a rural village in Takeo province, Cambodia. Rice, vegetables and meat are eagerly gobbled down by
children who don't aways have a nutritous meal at their poor homes. It's the rainy season now, and this warm meal will give
them the strength to ward off disease and to study at school.


Thanks to A Mine Free World Foundation Board Member Un Vanthon and local teacher Ban Ven for all their work to implement
this successful program.


The Meal Plan is funded by the Rotary Club of Etobicoke, District 7070.


ROTARY WHEELS FOR LEARNING


To help support bicycles for the children at the two Big Love Schools, please see:

http://rotarywheelsforlearning.blogspot.com/


Rotary Wheels for Learning is an international program of the Rotary Club of Gravenhurst, Ontario.

Your donation of ANY amount is tax-receiptable in Canada.
Give a rural child much-needed transportation for Education!

Our target is to provide 75 children at these schools with bicycles this October.

Project Battambang - Educational/Vocational Support for Rural Landmine Survivors & Their Families

A long-term project to assist 50 identified impoverished landmine-affected families living in the villages surrounding Koas Krala in Battambang province -
one of the most heavily mined areas in Cambodia. A Mine Free World Foundation (AMFWF), with initial funds provided by the Rotary Club of Etobicoke,
will provide small business enterprises for these families as well as educational support and supplies for their children's needs.
Lisa McCoy, Pauline Johns and Un Vanthon of AMFWF will be making their way into this area in November 2010 to implement this project.

View full picasa web album with information on each project recipient and their families at this link:

http://picasaweb.google.com/schoolsforcambodia/ProjectBattambangEducationalVocationalSupportForRuralLandmineSurvivorsTheirFamilies

Day-to-day life is an endless struggle for families eking out a meager existence in the rural areas of developing countries. Of tantamount difficulty, is to manage this existence amongst a myriad of landmines below your feet – That is what families in rural Cambodia face, and will continue to face for many years, as Cambodia is one the world’s heaviest mined countries.


Over 4,000,000 million Explosive Remnants of War (ERW) and landmines lay hidden beneath the ground in the rural areas of Cambodia, lying in wait for a hapless child playing to step upon.

The following information was found on the Landmine Cluster and Munition Monitor :

http://www.the-monitor.org/index.php/publications/display?url=lm/2008/countries/cambodia.html

‘About 40% of all casualties occurred in just two provinces: Battambang and Banteay Meanchey.’

‘Many governmental and NGO VA services in Cambodia are urban-based and do not fully reach persons with disabilities in rural areas. Although there were substantial improvements in the government’s treatment and rehabilitation of persons with disabilities, NGOs provided most of the VA during the reporting period, in cooperation with relevant authorities. Mine/ERW survivors remain a significant proportion of the total number of persons with disabilities in Cambodia and are among the poorest of the poor; Cambodia admits that much remains to be done to “ensure that appropriate mechanisms” exist to meet the needs of survivors and other persons with disabilities.’

‘Cambodia has no legislation to protect the rights of persons with disabilities. The government continues to prohibit persons with disabilities from being teachers in public schools.[139] However, the draft Law for the Protection and Promotion of the Rights of People with Disabilities was submitted to the government in December 2006 and approved by the Council of Ministers in February 2008; the law has yet to be approved by the National Assembly.[140] Cambodia signed both the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its Optional Protocol on 1 October 2007, but as of 31 July 2008 neither had been ratified.’

A Mine Free World Foundation (AMFWF) is dedicated and determined to reach these disabled families- ‘the poorest of the poor’ - in their rural areas.

Thanks to the support of the Rotary Club of Etobicoke, ‘Project Battambang’ has been launched. AMFWF Board Member and Cambodian Project Coordinator, Un Vanthon has just returned from a ten day mission from Phonm Penh into the rural area of Koas Krala in Battambang province. He went with a small team of volunteers, which included 2 local Koas Krala guides and a member of the Red Cross.

In just this one area, 50 landmine-affected families were found, interviewed and a needs assessment was conducted. These 50 families can be viewed at the above picasa web album link.

Along with Vanthon and local guides, we will make our way back into that area in November to assess and provide the best self-sustainable help for these families. Many can be helped by just providing them with a small business - $100 can provide a chicken business, $125 a sewing business, $75 a small food business – the list is endless.

Their children can be provided with scholarship support or perhaps a bicycle, school bag and uniforms.

It will take time to assess the best needs and solutions for each family. Time that we happily give to see the end result for these families – a way out of poverty – a way to education.

NAMES OF LANDMINE SURVIVORS AND THEIR NEEDS AS SHOWN IN THE ABOVE PICASA WEB ALBUM LINK:


Hean hon "Moung District, A civil now, 57 year old
" "Was a army in 1979. have no right leg
Fought in 15 01,1991" "wife: Yim Mert 55 year old, 3
children" want to be fix the bicycle

Aeng Chun "Prey Parpal village, Kah kralor district,
a civil now, 45 Year old" "Was a army in 1982, Check the area
and stepped on mine and lost leg in
K.S Province" "Wife: Ngan pisey 42 year old, 2
son" want to be fix the bicycle

Leam Chunly "Prey Parpal village, Kah kralor district.
A civil now, 52 year old" "Was a army in 1772, Fought on 29 04
1984, in Mokol bory district, Lost two leg" "Wife: Ann yern 33 year old, 4
children " Want to be fix the clock

Heang saret "Kah Kralor village, Koh kralor district
49 year old, a civil now" "Was a army in 1979, in Beylin and
Lost right leg in september 1998" "wife: Yang Sopous 41, 5 children,
2 daughter and 3 son " "Now is a fix of Tv & radio,
want to have fund"

Khom Khang "Spean village, Kah kralor commune,
Koh kralor district, 68 year old, a cilvil" "Was a army in 1964, have accident in
8 1998 " "Wife: Mon Ann 61 year old, no
children" Want to raise animals

Kog koum "Kah kralor village, Koh kralor commune
Koh kralor district, 16 year old" "Cause by played with mine in 2004,
Lost right arm" "Father: Jonh Kog, 48. Mother:
Jonh mon 53. 7 sibling "

Ngern Kouy "Kah kralor village, Koh kralor commune
Koh kralor district, 41 year old" "Was a army in 1975, Lost eye in 1988
" "Wife: Phal rert 43, 3 daughter
" "A famer now, and want to be
a seller"

Rerng sovann "Tebhady commune, Koh kralor district
45 year old, a civil" "Was a army in 1979 in Soroung village
Lost left leg in 1991" "Wife: Choum Seak, 43. 3
children" "want to do the agriculture,
grow mashroom"

Plet Hing "Female, 48. a widower
Tebhady commune, Koh kralor district" "Stepped on mine and lost right leg in
Tatok village" 2 daughter "want to sell water of
sugarcane"

Choun nget "Male, 52 year old. Chay village Tebhady
commune, Koh kralor district." "Was a army in 1982 and lost right leg
in 1982" "Wife: Neng samin, 55. 1
daughter"

Ho vearn "Tebhady commune, Koh kralor district,
79 year old" "Was a army, and lost right leg in1992
cause by stepped on mine" Wife: Yart chout, 69. 1 daughter want to be a seller

Harge saret "Tebhady commune, Koh kralor district,
48 year old" "Was a army 1979 and lost one leg in
01 07, 1995" Wife: Vey Chot, 51. 6 children Want to raise animals

Tep kosal "Tebhady commune, Koh kralor district,
48 year old, " " disability body in 1998 in Toul methes
Village" "Wife: Ren sopone, 33. 4
children ( study)" want to do the agriculture

Mouv Cheat "Tebhady commune, Koh kralor district,
55 year old, female" "Lose eye, when have war,
Cause by mine in1988" Wife: Sem eearn. 7 children

Rien Youm "Tebhady commune, Koh kralor district,
32 year old" Lost twos Leg Live with mother 68 year old want to be a cut hair

Phech one "Tebhady commune, Koh kralor district,
48 year old" Was a army, and lost two leg "Wife: Ket nong. 4 daughter
(study)" "now is a carpenter. And
need some meterial"

Sourn Yoen "Tebhady commune, Koh kralor district,
79 year old" "Lost left leg in 1972 before Pol Pot
regime" Wife: Harm rain, 80. No children want to have fund

Kege Kouy "Tebhady commune, Koh kralor district,
48 year old" Lost left leg in 1996 "Wife: dead. Mother, 98 year old
4 children" Want to raise animals

Keg Man "Tebhady commune, Koh kralor district,
55 year old " Lost leg in 1982, in Sok San Area "Wife: Vern Von, 45. 5 children
( 1 is study)" want to be a seller

Vit Thoun "Koun Prom village Tebhady commune,
Koh kralor district. 47 year old" "Was a army and Lost right leg in 1992
in Boung Reang" "Wife: Koge kog, 44. 5 children
(3 is study)" "a cut hair now. Want to have
material of cut hair"

Rim Choum "Tebhady commune, Koh kralor district,
53 year old" "Was a army and lost left leg 31 12,
1982 in Kah kralor" "Wife: Peou Puge, 50. 6 children
(3 is study)" want to do agriculture

Kouy Vuth "Kontout village, tebhady commune, 49
year old" "Was a army and lost right leg in1986
in Koh kralor village" "Wife: Douk seoum, 59. 1
daughter"

Chok Chup "Kontout village, tebhady commune,
78 year old" Broken hip, cause by bullet in 1979 No wife raise animals

Son Sang "Kontout village, tebhady commune, 46
year old" Lost left leg in 1999 in Somlot. Wife: Choat Poug, 37. 1 son want to raise animals

Kheng herng "Kontout village, tebhady commune, Koh
Kralor district. 84 year old" "Lost right leg, deaf cause by mine in
Kah kralor district in 1983" Wife: Yill Loum, 65. 2 children raise animals and seller

Ney Cham "Toul baloung village, Koh kralor
commune. 48 year old" "Was a army in Beylin province, lost
right leg in 1989" Wife: Chea Touh, 48. 3 children Want to learn to fix Moto

Hum Chreug "Toul baloung village, Koh kralor
commune. 54 year old" "Was a army and lost left leg in 06 06,
1986 in Beylin province" "Wife: Ma sophone, 56. 1
daughter ( study)" Want to learn to fix Moto

Meum Haeng "Bong Preah village, Preah phous
commune, 40 year old" "was a army in 1991 at Tabon, and
disability body" Wife: Ngerm Ngar, 36. 4 chidren "want to make cake, or raise
animals or make wine"

Pun Bin "Toul baloung village, Koh kralor district
43 year old" was a army and lost left eye in 1986 "Wife: Kae savann, 31. 6 children
( 5 is study)" raise animal Seller

Het Heuy "Takour village, Preah phous commune,
Koh kralor district, 48 year old" "was a army and lost eyes in Beylin
in 12 03, 1989" "Wife: Hern Rous, 51. 3 children
1 is study" want to raise animals

Nil noy "Such harb village, Preah pous
commune, koh kralor district, 46 y" "Was a army and lost right leg in 1988
in Tebhady district" "Wife: Touy rom, 45. 6 children
(3 is study)" Seller: Gasoline, fix moto

Khev sareun "Such harb village, Preah pous
commune, koh kralor district, 64 y" "Lost left leg cause by dig land in Koh
kralor district in 12 04, 2003" "Wife: Hong Chern, 53. 1
daughter." raise animals do the farming

Phev ponlok "Boung Chenas village, Koh kralor
commune, 42 year old" "Lost left hand by mine in 1984 in
Somlot District" "Wife: Leang Sokha, 32. 3
children" want to be a seller

Hun Therm "Krang Svart village, Koh kralor
commune. 54 year old" Was a army and Lost left leg in 1985 Wife: Pok bong 56. no children raise animals do the faming

Hearm Ngon "Krang Svart Village, Chenal Moune
commune, Koh kralor District, 47
year old" "Was a army and Lost right leg in
Banon" "Wife: Chearl Khvean, 51. 7
children" raise animals

Keo Phel "Krang Svart Village, Chenal Moune
commune, Koh kralor District, 48
year old" "Was a army and lost right leg in
Komping Pouy" "Wife: Moum Nat, 41. 5 children.
(No study)" "Want to have bicycle to take
vegetable to sell ( No land to
live)"

Sern Chey "Krang Svart Village, Chenal Moune
commune, Koh kralor District, 53
year old" "Lost left leg, cause by Mine in 1997
in Chenal Moune, when he was cut tree " "Wife: Chen Hern, 49 year old.
9 children( 2 is study)" raise animals

Terng yeark "Krang Svart Village, Chenal Moune
commune, Koh kralor District, 56
year old" Lost left leg in 1991 No wife: 2 children raise animals

Meas dos "Banteay Char village, Koh kralor district
45 year old
" "Lost left leg in 1995 in Kompot Phonm
Voer" "Wife: Heang Chanthea, 38. 4
children (study)" raise animals

Arn Nann "Rersey Preah village, Koh kralor district
35 year old" "Was a army, Lost eye, cause by mine
in Marlay district" "Wife: Kom Kern, 38. 4 children
(study)" Sell fish, and need fund

Soun Sout "Prey Sern village, Koh kralor District,
47 year old" "Was a army and lost left leg in 1980,
in Sok San camp" "Wife: Reat Begn, 33. 9 children
( 3 is study)" "Want to fix Bicycle and
motor or raise animal "

Yaan sarert "Prey Sern village, Koh kralor District,
44 year old" "Lost left arm in 1988 cause by mine
" No wife. 6 children. (5 is study) "raise animal and support
children to school"

Cheang sareoun "Prey Sern village, Koh kralor District,
52 year old" "Was a army in 1978 and lost left eye
in 1988 in Porvil." "Wife: Keo Phern, 47. 1 children
(study)" raise animals

Choum Sovaan Prey Sern village, Koh kralor District, 20 year old Lost left leg in 2004 in Sompeou Lon "Mother: mern Touk 52, Father:
Sreir Choum, 53. 8 sibling" "Want to fix Bicycle and
motor or raise animal "

Haerm Buntheoun "Prey Sern village, Kok Kralor district,
50 year old" Lost Leg raise animal

Koun khan "Prey chok village, Preah Pous
commune, 54 year old" "Was a army, Lost twos Leg in 2001 in
Poypet " "Wife: Park Veang, 46 children
3 children (study)" raise animals

Heang Sareoun "Koy Veang village, Preah pous
commune, Koh kralor district,
55 year old" Lost right arm in 1987 "Wife: Srash Moush, 55. 4
children ( 3 is study)" raise animal & agiculture

Kak Kob "Sorong village Koh kralor District,
38 year old" Lost left leg in 1996 in Krawine Wife: Kom Touh, 21. 3 children raise animal and fix bicycle

Lauy chart "Sorong village Koh kralor District,
75 year old " Lost left leg in 1993 "Wife: Yom Hugn, 66. no
children" want to do agriculture

Cheang In "Samkhey village, Koh krolar district
46 Year old" Lost right leg in 1985 "Wife: Lon Chout, 50. 4 choildren
" raise animals & agriculture

Consider helping or sponsoring one of the above families!


Your donation - any amount will help toward this big undertaking - can be sent to:

A Mine Free World Foundation
906 Fung Place,
Kitchener, ON, N2A 4M3


In Memo Field, please write:

‘Project Battambang’
Many Thanks for your Support,
Maria van Santen, Pauline Johns, Lisa McCoy
A Mine Free World Foundation

Etobicoke Rotary Club Sponsors Children from Landmine-Affected Families in Rural Cambodia

A Mine Free World Foundation (AMFWF), www.aminefreeworld.org , would like to thank the Rotary Club Of Etobicoke, District 7070, for their generous educational/vocational support for rural landmine-affected families in Cambodia. Their total donation of $5,000 ($2,500 earlier this year and another $2,500 this past week) for landmine survivors, and another donation of $2,781 for a Four-Month Meal Plan for 76  children in Cambodia will provide much-needed support that rural familes in Cambodia cannot afford. Three more children received Bicycles, School Uniforms and Supplies this past week.

The Rotary Club of Etobicoke has now supported 5 children on the outskirts of Phnom Penh with bicycles, uniforms, books, school bags and supplies. They are also supporting 2 sisters from a landmine-affected family in Siem Reap - Theary, age 17 and Sampous Jouen, age 7who are living and learning under the care of AMFWF Khmer Team Member Chea Socheat and family in a house provided by AMFWF board member Pauline Johns.  Thank you Khemra for your help too!

The Rotary Club of Etobicoke is supporting Theary and Sampous with meals, clothes, bicycles and school supplies.  They have provided Theary with a sewing machine and supplies, and a professional sewing course at a local seamstress shop which Theary is enjoying immensely!

You too can provide a sewing machine business for a rural woman in Cambodia for a donation of $125 to AMFWF.

Of Special Note to Rotarians - On August 23rd, Chris Snyder of the Rotary Club of Toronto will be the special guest speaker at the Rotary Club of Gravenhurst Meeting.  He's participated in and led  'Sweat Equity' trips into many developing countries.  He'll be showing a DVD on this past winter's trip of 20 Rotarian's and friends to Cambodia and will tell you about a return trip in the making for the fall of 2011.

Chris is also on the board of the Canadian Landmine Foundation, and will speak a little about the work this organization does.   The meeting begins at noon at the Regatta Restaurant down at Muskoka Wharf in Gravenhurst.

Many thanks again to the ladies of Daphne's Drop In at the Women's Resource Center in Bracebridge, Ontario for providing such a business to a rural woman.  I'll be happily giving out that donation personally when I head to Cambodia the beginning of October.

A BIG PERSONAL THANK YOU to Jay and Linda Harrison of Gravenhurst, Ontario who surprised me this past week by donating $1,010 to pay for my airfare to Cambodia!  They had just finished a work project for Don and Mimi Gillies of Gravenhurst and had decided to donate their work efforts towards my airfare.

My on-the-ground transportation in Cambodia will be my sturdy new STRIDA bicycle donated by Steve Inniss at Saved By Bikes. Check out his blog at: http://savedbybikes.com/blog/ .

Being a self-funded volunteer, I appreciate and am thankful for the support I receive.

Director Om Chamnap of AMFWF supported school - Banyan Learning Tree - on the outskirts of Phnom Penh, is shown in 2 of the picasa web albums giving the donations to children living in 3 surrounding villages. Your Donation of $85 can supply a child with these needed items for school. Contact schoolsforcambodia@gmail.com for information on how you can support the child of a landmine survivor in Cambodia through A Mine Free World Foundation.

To view all three picasa web albums of Etobicoke Rotary sponsored students please see:

http://picasaweb.google.com/schoolsforcambodia/EtobicokeRotaryClubSponsoredChildrenFromLandmineAffectedFamiliesInRuralCambodia#

http://picasaweb.google.com/schoolsforcambodia/RotaryHelpForLandmineAffectedStudentsInCambodia#

http://picasaweb.google.com/schoolsforcambodia/EtobicokeRotaryClubSponsoredStudents#

More updates on the Rotary-sponsored Meal Plan In the Takeo village of Trapeang Tum Tbong in my next blog posting.  AMFWF Team Member Un Vanthon is on his way there now to implement the project with local teacher Ban Ven.

A big AMFWF Etobicoke Rotary sponsored project is on the horizon for Battambang Province - the most heavily mined area in Cambodia.  This province has the most landmine casulties in Cambodia and the greatest need for educational/vocational support for landmine survivors and their families.  The project will be implemented in November when Pauline Johns arrives in Cambodia to volunteer with me.  Un Vanthon is laying the groundwork for this project now.

October is fast approaching and I am looking for donations of  good used LAPTOPS, DIGITAL CAMERAS and READING GLASSES.

To donate, please contact me at: schoolsforcambodia@gmail.com

Thank you Everyone!

Lisa McCoy - Executive Director, AMFWF
Maria van Santen -  President, AMFWF

Garage Sale Funds Making a Difference in Cambodia

It’s been a month since we held the Giant Garage Sale at the Curling Club here in Gravenhurst, Ontario which raised $4,740 for children in Cambodia through A Mine Free World Foundation (AMFWF).



These funds have been sent to Cambodia and are slowly making improvements for the education of children there.


US$3,500 was sent to the Trailblazer Foundation to conduct a 100-Bicycle Distribution Project for children requiring this necessary transportation to get to the ‘Muskoka School’ in Siem Reap province. The Trailblazer Foundation, www.thetrailblazerfoundation.org , is the US registered charity that spearheaded the building of the Muskoka School. They conduct numerous school building and water projects throughout the area.


They will be slowly disbursing the 100 bicycles to children who have to walk miles, or cannot get to the Muskoka School and surrounding schools. They’ll be sending along photos and a list of all the children who get this valuable means to get to school.


It’s the rainy season over there now. Some roads are impassable during this time of the year, so getting the bicycles to the children may take a while. Incidentally, schools are closed during July and August because it rains so hard.


But, there are some schools that stay open year-round there. These are the small ‘free-education’ schools. They are usually supported by outside organizations and depend on their funding to operate, since there is inadequate government support for any schools in Cambodia, as in most developing countries.


Free education schools provide Khmer and English literacy education, math and other subjects free of charge to any child, any age, who wants to learn. It does not matter if they attend a government school or not, and many can’t attend the government schools. Some children, especially in the rural areas, are needed to work the farm or the family business. Some can’t afford the few pennies it costs to attend most government schools. But here, at these ‘free-education’ schools, a child can attend one, or several of the usually one-hour long classes that are offered throughout the day.


Earlier this year, my dear friend Pauline Johns from Australia, put the funds in place to register such a ‘free-education’ school and organization in Cambodia – just on the outskirts of Phnom Penh.


It is run by Director Om Chamnap, a qualified teacher who has background experience in operating a non-government organization (NGO). Over 50 children are attending the one-room school – Banyan Learning Tree.


A Mine Free World Foundation sent US$435 to Banyan Learning Tree School for desperately-needed school-desks, notebooks, pens, pencils and rulers. – plus 3 signs that will help visitors, volunteers and prospective students find the school! More funds are needed for some English/Khmer books, and other supplies for this new school. If you can help out, please contact me at: schoolsforcambodia@gmail.com


There are other ways you can help this school – if you are in Phnom Penh, drop by and sit in with one of the classes. Help the children learn to read English. Or, volunteer on a longer basis. Groups are also welcome to visit. There is a huge sign on the highway to Takeo now indicating precisely where the school is. If you telephone tuk-tuk driver Vanthon in Phnom Penh, he will take you right to the school: 012 906 793.


To volunteer or visit you can contact me or Director Om Chamnap. I will be in Cambodia from the beginning October to the beginning of April.

Banyan Learning Tree School


House #70, Street Chamcardong, Kvar Village,


Sangkat Dangkor, Phnom Penh, Cambodia


Phone: (+055) 012 590 009 Email: chamnap.kethya@gmail.com





Another ‘free-education’ school which received AMFWF Garage Sale funding is ‘Big Love School’ in the rural Takeo village of Trapeang Tum Tbong. They received US$250 for much-needed school supplies there. This rural village will be the main station for Pauline and I this winter. Pauline has rented a house where we will live and conduct many of our projects and volunteer at the school. A big Thank You to Vanthon for finding us this house. We hope to get a one-room clinic operating in this house, as the impoverished people in this area lack the money for basic medical attention or the transportation money required to get to a local free clinic.


There’s lots more news to tell and photos to share, but I’ll leave that for my next posting.


In the meantime, there are some items that are on the NEEDS LIST for Cambodia, that I would like to take over with me the beginning of October. Please contact me if you can donate any of the items below in good-used or new condition:


DIGITAL CAMERAS


LAPTOPS operating on Windows


READING GLASSES


Many Thanks,


Lisa McCoy

$4,740 RAISED AT GIANT GARAGE SALE FOR CAMBODIAN CHILDREN

$4,740 RAISED AT GIANT GARAGE SALE

Many thanks to all those who helped raise this monumental amount at our 5th Annual Giant Garage Sale in aid of needy rural children in Cambodia. Our goal to raise US$3,500 for 100 bicycles for the ‘Muskoka School’ in Siem Reap province was far exceeded thanks to the hard work and generosity of Muskokans far and wide.


A big thank you goes to the Gravenhurst Curling Club for allowing us to hold our July 10th & 11th sale in their arena – which we filled with four garages worth of donated items. Sincere thanks to fellow Cambodia travelers Jay and Linda Harrison, who helped coordinate the event. Our dedicated volunteer’s energy levels were replenished thanks to delicious sandwiches provided by Blondie’s Restaurant and Catering. Bill & Dora Rathbun kept us going with fresh perked coffee all weekend.

Thanks to Friday trucking and muscle power provided by Jay & Linda Harrison, Enno Hoekstra, Pat Bongers, Leslie Chamberlain, Steve Hayhurst, Andy McCoy and our crew of movers. Thanks to all who manned the sale over the weekend and helped to clean up. A special thanks to all those from the Rotary Club of Gravenhurst for their volunteer efforts.

Dan Blix Ad Services provided the graphic design for all our posters and handouts. Many thanks to Muskoka area publications for their support and promotion of the sale. Thanks also goes to Dan for designing the bright new header on this blog site.

Because of your donations and efforts, rural children in Cambodia who do not have the means by which to attend the ‘Muskoka School’ there, or have to walk kilometers to attend, will be provided with a bicycle. This is a collaborative project of ‘A Mine Free World Foundation’ in Canada and ‘The Trailblazer Foundation’ in the US. Excess funds will go to provide school desks and supplies for two small rural schools and educational support for needy children. You can follow the progress of these projects at: http://schoolsforcambodia.blogspot.com/

On Monday, July 12th, I visited one of my fovorite group of ladies in Bracebridge at 'Daphne's Drop In' to give them a presentation of my past winter's volunteer efforts. Last year, these wonderful women donated $150 for food for flood victims in Cambodia after Typoon Ketsana left many homeless and in great need there.

This year, they donated $125 for a sewing machine and supplies for a rural Cambodian woman to have her own clothesmaking and mending business.  One of the women also donated a good used laptop that is desperately needed by teachers and students there.

My good friend, Maria Duncalf, organizies Daphne's Drop In, which is a fun weekly drop in for ALL women - every Monday, from 9:30 - 12:00 at the Women's Resource Centre in Bracebridge. For more info, contact: Daphne@muskoka.com

Speaking of laptops - I head back to Cambodia the beginning of October and am in need of more good used LAPTOPS to take with me - also some used educational CD-ROMS.  Contact me at 705-687-8538 or schoolsforcambodia@gmail.com if you can help out with this need.

Having fun riding my new STRIDA bicycle - getting it warmed up for Cambodia action - check out Steve Inniss'  Saved By Bikes blog at:  http://savedbybikes.com/blog/.


Lisa McCoy,

Executive Director

A Mine Free World Foundation

Rotary Help For Landmine-Affected Students in Cambodia

Etobicoke Rotary Club Sponsored Students

DONATIONS & VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR 5TH ANNUAL GIANT GARAGE SALE FOR CAMBODIAN CHILDREN

PASS THIS ON FRIENDS!

We Need Donations of New/Used Items - Volunteers Also!
Rent a Table to Sell Your Own Items - for a minimun Donation of $25

5th Annual Giant Garage Sale and Flea Market For Cambodian Children
Saturday July 10, 7:30am & Sunday July 11, 9am
Gravenhurst Curling Club

 Help us raise money for 100 bicycles for the ‘Muskoka School’ Children in Cambodia!
Contact: Lisa & Carl 687-8538 or Jay & Linda 687-7679 or: schoolsforcambodia@gmail.com

'A Mine Free World Foundation' Fundraiser!
www.aminefreeworld.orgDetails:

Our annual garage sales have raised funds to help build the 6-room rural government ‘Muskoka School’ in Cambodia, and last year we raised US$2,000 for 400 school uniforms and shoes for the students attending the school.

This year, Gravenhurst residents Carl and Lisa McCoy and Jay and Linda Harrison are hoping to raise US$3,500 for 100 bicycles for ‘Muskoka School’ area children who lack this necessary transportation to get to school. This is a collaborative project of the non-profit organizations ‘A Mine Free World Foundation’ and by the ‘Trailblazer Foundation’, who pulled their efforts together to get the ‘Muskoka School’ built.

The giant sale will take place on Saturday and Sunday, July 10th and 11th, doors open at 7:30am, at the Gravenhurst Curling Club. Your donations of new or good, used items are needed. Volunteers are needed for sale dates and ambitious volunteers are needed to help us move items into the Curling Club on Friday, July 9th.

This year, we are adding a flea market component to the sale. For a minimum donation of $25, you can have a table and floor space to sell your own items!

Many Thanks to the artistic talents of Dan Blix for creating our A Mine Free Wolrd Foundation logo pictured on our header.  It is of the 'Rumdul' - the national flower of the Kingdom of Cambodia.  Dan's graphic talents have also created all our AMFWF posters and handouts.  See more of his artistry at:

Dan's Advertising Design:

http://dansadvertisingdesign.blogspot.com./

Dan's Pet Portraits:

http://danspetportraits.blogspot.com/

To donate items, volunteer or have some space to sell your own goodies contact Carl and Lisa McCoy at 687-8538 or Jay and Linda Harrison at 687-7679, or email schoolsforcambodia@gmail.com I's also like to take this opportunity to welcome Pauline Johns of Bowral, NSW, Australia to the Board of 'A Mine Free World Foundation'.(AMFWF) Pauline has given her heart and soul to help the impoverished children of Cambodia for several years now.

I've had the priviledge to work along side her in Cambodia for 2 years now. She has been an invaluable 'on the ground' help in all the bicycle distributions.

Providing much-needed local volunteer help with bicycle distributions, are AMFWF Team Members Un Vanthon and family from Phnom Penh and Socheat Chea and family of Siem Reap.  They act as facilitators, interpreters and monitors of all bike distributions.  They are all committed to making a difference to the lives of the rural children and landmine victims of Cambodia.

Next posting will highlight some amazing contributions from the Rotary Club of Etobicoke that have funded a Meal Plan for 76 rural children in rural Takeo province, and their Night Of A Thousand Dinners event which raised $5,000 for the support of landmine survivors in rural Cambodia.

For $50 - you can provide a bicycle for a rural child in Cambodia!  This bicycle will provide the child with transportation to school.  You will receive a photo and biographical information of your sponsored bicycle recipient.  Contact me at: schoolsforcambodia@gmail.com for more info.

Many Thanks,
Maria van Santen & Lisa McCoy
A Mine Free World Foundation

Lisa Will be Cycling Around Cambodia!

As a self-funded volunteer, it's always nice to get a little help. I can't thank Steve and Catharine Inniss enough for their most generous donation that will provide ME with this valuable mode of transportation while traveling in the cities and rural areas of Cambodia this October to April! Now, I'll be cycling in style on this new Strida bicycle - along with my Cambodian students. I know that they will all want to try out this bike, as it is like nothing that they have ever seen before.

www.savedbybikes.com

Check out the above link to see all the details on this marvelous bike! It folds up in a snap, and I'll be able to take it along on any plane, bus or car! I can easily carry it - as it weighs only 22lbs, but don't let the weight fool you - it is the sturdiest bike that I have ever rode. I really like the disc brakes.

It will get a good workout in Cambodia this winter!

Give Steve a call at 705-345-3307 if you want to give the Strida bike a ride.

Inspiring Sounds & Huntsville Students Raise Funds for Bicycles!

I was delighted and honored to be the guest speaker at the May 29th Concert put on by Muskoka area talented young musicians at the Inspiring Sounds Music Studio Annual Spring Concert .

These fabulous students entertained a large audience at the Bracebridge United Church with voice and piano, under the expert direction of their talented teacher, Wing Chow.

Featured Guest performers for the show were 'Just 8' - vocal ensemble under the direction of pianist and arranger, George Kadwell.

All put their talents and efforts together to help those less fortunate in a small country on the other side of the world! At this concert, $577.50 was raised towards 100 Bicycles for the Muskoka School Children in Cambodia - a project of A Mine Free World Foundation www.aminefreeworld.org

Many thanks to Wing Chow, 'Just 8' and all the talented performers who are providing less fortunate children with this valuable transportation to school.

I will certainly be attending their next concert - I have never had such an entertaining afternoon!

Inspiring Sounds Music Studio
705-646-9791
Inspiringsounds@gmail.com
inspiringsounds.tripod.com

These aren't the only students who have done some wonderful fundraising for the cause. The 2008-09 students at Huntsville Public School raised $150 for Muskoka School Bicycles through their fundraising efforts under the direction of teacher Alana Hall.

Students helping students a half a world away!

'A Mine Free World Foundation' - Update, Fundraisers & Events for Cambodia

Time has gone by quickly since my April 1st return from six months in Cambodia!

On Monday, April 12th, I was pleased to give my first presentation to The Rotary Club of Gravenhurst. The presentation was covered by COGECO and focused on the Muskoka School Official Inauguration Ceremony in Cambodia, the 276 bicycles that were distributed to poor rural children, two small rural school-building projects, Ketsana flood relief, educational support for student landmine survivors and many of the other projects and programs implemented there.

Friday, April 9th, I was interviewed by the ‘A Channel’, who was also interested to hear all about the Muskoka School Inauguration and the bicycles that were distributed in Cambodia.

Sunday, April 25th, I attended the Rotary District 7010 PETS & Assembly and Youth Exchange Training in North Bay. I gave a presentation there encompassing all the projects that were implemented in Cambodia this past winter.

I am always happy to give a presentation to any groups interested in hearing about volunteer efforts, projects and programs of benefit to the impoverished in the developing country of Cambodia. I have a PowerPoint presentation that introduces the country, its gentle smiling people and children, and accounts of the many resulting rewarding experiences that can be had by getting involved through volunteerism ‘on-the-ground’ in the rural areas of this small SE Asian country.

To arrange a presentation for your group, please contact me at 705-687-8538, or email: schoolsforcambodia@gmail.com . Or – Perhaps I’ll see you at one of the following events and fundraisers planned:


Rotary Club of Etobicoke
Night of 1000 Dinners Event
Friday, May 7, 2010 6:00 PM
At: Active Green and Ross Headquarters
580 Evans Avenue, Toronto
To RSVP: contact Hugh Williams 416-738-9583

The Event
The Rotary Club of Etobicoke is having a social, fundraising “Night of 1000 Dinners” event on Friday, May 7 starting at 6:00 to raise money for landmine eradication.
Our guest speakers, Maria Almudevar-van Santen and Lisa McCoy of A Mine Free World Foundation (www.aminefreeworld.org) will provide a unique and powerful view into this issue and their work in Cambodia.
Dinner and wine are being provided and prepared by Ralph Chiodo and family.
Cost for dinner is only $60 per person. Receipts will be provided.
The Need
The global landmine crisis is one of the most pervasive problems facing the world today. There are many millions of landmines in the ground in at least 70 countries. Landmines reportedly maim or kill 10,000 civilians every year. Those victims that survive endure a lifetime of physical, psychological, and economic hardship.
The Menu !


1. Antipasto

o Parmigiano Reggiano

o Friuliano

o Salami, Capicolla

o Articokes

o Olives

2. Prima pasta:

o Pasta Faggioli (Pasta & Bean Soup)

3. Seconda Pasta

o Penne Rigate in a meat sauce

4. Terza Pasta

o Fusilli Tre Colori (Three Colour Pasta with Peas and Shrimp)


5. Salciccia alla Pizzaiola

6. Insalata Mista (Mixed Green Salad)

7. Dolci (Dessert)

8. Caffe (coffee)

9. Frutta (Fruit)

Vino Bianco (White Wine)
Vino Rosso (Red Wine)


Inspiring Sounds Music Studio - Annual Spring Concert 2010 – May 29, 2pm Bracebridge United Church
Children in Muskoka Perform to Raise funds for Children in Cambodia

Young musicians from across Muskoka are set to go on stage in the sixth annual spring concert hosted by Inspiring Sounds Music Studio. The concert takes place at Bracebridge United Church on May 29th (Sat) at 2 p.m. It will feature performances by young musicians under the direction of music specialist Wing Chow.

Pianists and vocalists will treat the audience to a variety of pieces from different musical styles in solo, duet and ensembles. The concert will include a wide variety of selections designed for the entire family. Performances will include children’s songs, classic favourites, Broadway tunes and popular music repertoires such as Star War, Beauty and the Beast, Thank You for the Music (ABBA), Ode to Joy (Beethoven), Entertainer (Joplin) and much more.

Students will also perform pieces that earned them gold medals and scholarships from the Kiwanis Music Festival in April, including their very own composition works. This year, there are 30 students attended the Kiwanis Music Festival for both piano and vocal classes. They have received total 34 Gold medals, 2 trophies and 2 scholarships. They will be attending the Stars of Festival on May 31 at Orillia Opera House to receive the awards and scholarships.

At the end of the concert, the guest performers from “Just 8” vocal group will perform some Jazz tunes to audiences.

Tickets can be purchased at the door starting at 1:00 p.m. The tickets are Adult $10.00, Student $5.00 and Children under 6 years of age are Free. Any excess profit from the ticket sales will be donated to the non-profit organization, A Mine Free World Foundation, for helping children in Cambodia.

Inspiring Sounds Music Studio will continue to offer private piano and vocal instructions for all ages and small group classes for young children. Call the director for details of the Early Bird registration and other special discounts for group classes. The next Fall registration will start in June. Call 705-646-9791 or visit inspiringsounds.tripod.com.

I’ll be attending this concert and will give a short presentation at the beginning. Many thanks to Wing Chow, director of Inspiring Sounds Music Studio, pianist and arranger, George Kadwell and the rest of my friends with ‘Just 8’ who have generously donated their time and talents for this event. It is always a delight to watch our talented young performers in Muskoka.

Rotary Club Of Aurora - Monday June 14th

Many Thanks to fellow Rotarians down at The Rotary Club of Aurora for their invitation to attend their meeting. I'll be giving my 'Projects in Cambodia' presentation to their members. They meet 6:15 at Gabriel's Cafe, south of Wellington St. on Yonge St.

Inviting All Women!

Womyn’s Way Drop In – Tuesday, June 8th – 10am to noon - Huntsville - at 494 Muskoka Road #3 North (about 1/2 km past the hospital, on the left hand side, across from the cemetery, beside Tebby Heating. I’ll be giving my visual presentation ‘Winter in Cambodia’ there. This program is open to all women and I hope to see you there!

Daphne’s Drop In – Monday, July 12th – 9:30am to noon. That’s the day I’ll be giving my ‘Winter in Cambodia’ presentation to my friends up there. This program is open to all women, so come and meet us there. ********* REFRESHMENTS AND SNACKS AVAILABLE *********Learn to make new friends. Learn new skills. Laugh. Enjoy life. Located at the Women’s Resource Centre 29 Manitoba St. Bracebridge. For information call ******* 646-2122 ******* maria@daphnewymn.com or www.daphnewymn.com

The above ‘Drop Ins’ are open to all women and have fantastic weekly meetings covering many interesting topics. Be sure to Drop In any week!

Giant Garage Sale in July—You can Donate Items Now!

Everyone has been asking me if there will be a ‘Giant Garage Sale’ again this summer – YES! It will be held in July in Gravenhurst, and donations are coming in already. This year, money raised will go towards bicycles for children at the ‘Muskoka School’, and towards supplies for two small rural schools in Cambodia. Please contact me if you would like to volunteer or if you have some new or gently-used items that you would like to donate.

There are many more ‘A Mine Free World Foundation’ events planned to provide bicycles, educational support, school support and support for landmine survivors. Become a follower of this blogsite! In the meantime, here are ways YOU can help a child in Cambodia:

How you can help:

- Provide educational support for a landmine survivor

- Donate a Bicycle for a needy rural student - $50

- Support a rural School Project

- Provide a Sewing business for a rural woman - $125 – we need 2 machines for Beng Donpa village in Siem Reap District.

- Come and Volunteer in rural schools and/or Distribute Bicycles in Cambodia. I am now looking for interested Rotarians and Friends who may want to get involved in joining me in some rewarding volunteer work this winter in Cambodia – contact me now. I can help arrange your, or your group’s transportation, accommodation and volunteer efforts on the ground in Cambodia!

- Your donation of even $5 can go a long way in providing toothbrushes and toothpaste for rural Cambodian children in the new 'Rural Dental Hygiene Education Project' to be implemented this October in Cambodia. Siem Reap Dentist, Dr. Khom Pisal will be accompanying our team into rural areas during bicyle distributions to provide this valuable hygiene education and dental supplies to rural children and adults.

- Hold a Fundraising Event for ‘A Mine Free World Foundation’ projects in Cambodia

- Donate Items to our ‘Annual Giant Garage Sale’ (Call 705-687-8538)

- Donate a good used laptop for a Cambodian student

- Please send a Donation to:

‘A Mine Free World Foundation’
906 Fung Place
Kitchener, OntarioN2A 4M3

Gravenhurst Rotary Bikes and YWCA Women In Business Sewing Machines

The sixth, and last month of my volunteer work here in Cambodia has been the busiest yet, with yet a couple of small projects to implement before I head back to Canada in 3 days!

On March 20th, 37 Rotary Club of Gravenhurst, Ontario, Canada (District 7010) bicycles, and 5 ‘A Mine Free World Foundation’ (AMFW) donor-sponsored bicycles were picked up from the wholesaler in Phnom Penh. That same afternoon, the 5 AMFW bicycles were distributed to 5 needy students living on the outskirts of Phnom Penh. These students lived considerable distances away from their homes, and these bikes will make their daily trip to school more quicker. It will also ensure their regular attendance.

That afternoon Khmer volunteer Un Vanthon and his family loaded and secured the 37 bikes that would head down to rural Takeo province the next morning. Also loaded on the truck were 2 sewing machines, tables and sewing supplies that were donated by the Muskoka YWCA Women in Business Group and Leslie Chamberlain. Their donation of $200 empowered two rural impoverished women! They now have their own self-sustainable home-based sewing and clothes repair businesses. Both these recipients had past sewing experience, but lacked a machine and supplies. Both recipients are also receiving free ‘brush-up’ sewing lessons from another qualified local seamstress. Thanks to local teacher, Ban Ven who will be monitoring this project for me while I am in Canada.

Also, loaded on the truck was a water pump and lengths of hose that were donated to the monks by my good volunteer friend Pauline Johns of Australia. Pauline has volunteered for almost all the bike distributions this past winter and has been an invaluable help.

Water is scarce in the dry season in the rural areas. Many people’s ponds are dried up for months, which means water for home and cattle are a one or two kilometer walk away. A water pump was a good solution for these elderly monks. They now can pump the water from the pond close to their pagoda. I found out that the reason that many of these ponds are dried up is because they have not been dug to the 3 meter required depth. Poor people in these villages just don’t have the money to have the equipment come in to dig them deeper.

5 am Sunday morning, the truck loaded with bikes, sewing machines, pumps and hose headed down to the village of Trapeang Ta Soam, about 25km west of Takeo city. Our minivan of volunteers left at 7am, arriving in Trapeang Ta Soam about 9am. When we arrived at the bicycle distribution site - Trapeang Thum primary school - all the bike recipients, parents, monks, area teachers, officials and monks were waiting for us! A loudspeaker and mike had been set-up and Pauline and I were ushered to a make-shift head table where we enjoyed a fresh coconut drink.

In Cambodia, most projects are received with such a ceremony. Permission from village and commune officials must be acquired before conducting or implementing a project. Doing this, also facilitates further projects that would be conducted in that same area. By having followed this protocol, that names of ’Rotary’ and ’A Mine Free World Foundation’ are welcomed help in this rural area.

The ceremony began with us kneeling in front of the local monks and receiving their blessings for us and our gifts. Cambodia is 95% Theravada Buddhist and Buddhism is an important part of their daily life.

Next came the speeches, by the local officials (pictured on right), by Un Vanthon, our ‘Rotary’ volunteer, translator and facilitator, and then by me.

This was followed by the bike distribution. Each student and bike were numbered, and one by one, the children were called to the head table, where their personal info was recorded onto the ‘Bike Application Form’ . then they signed the form, and proceeded to the bike distribution area, where they were photographed receiving their bike. Pauline, Vanthon and I have streamlined this mass bike distribution process down to a fine art. It couldn’t have gone smoother.

We were done about noon, and then had a quick lunch in the village before heading off to our next project for the day - delivering the two sewing machines.

Both area sewing machine recipients lived in poor bamboo huts. The one woman was a widow with two children. The other was a mother with 4 children. Her husband was a poor farmer (as most are in the rural areas), and only receives an income of maybe $1/day when a neighboring rice farm is looking for some help for the harvest. These small rural self-sustainable businesses are a godsend for these women. They could not thank us enough. The one recipient offered us 5 mangoes and one cucumber as a thank you gift.

There are many small rural business ventures that can improve the lives of rural people. They include chicken and duck raising, fish farming, Bike and Motto repair, barbering, weaving and crafts, carpentry, vegetable and mushroom growing, noodle and home-based food businesses…just to name a few. Businesses along this line provide a quick income, as opposed to pig and cow raising, where income takes time to generate. Anyone interested in sponsoring a small business for a rural person can contact me at: http://schoolsforcambodia@gmail.com .

In October, our team of volunteers will be heading into Battambang province, the most heavily mined province in Cambodia, and through ‘A Mine Free World Foundation’ we want to implement some rural-based businesses for landmine survivors. More businesses are needed for the poor in rural Takeo as well.

Later that afternoon, we stopped at our next wonderful project: ‘Big Love’ Free Education school.
This school has been the dream of qualified rural teacher, Ban Ven for quite some years. The local government school is quite some distance away from ‘Big Love’ school at the foothills of the western area hills. Some of the children, who now have bikes, can attend both the government and ‘Big Love’ school’. But for many children and illiterate adults (women in particular), this is their only available school.

A few months ago, a neighboring widow donated some of her land for this school building. The village adults and children had all worked together to build his simple bamboo-structured school. Ban Ven already has 56 children that he and his niece are teaching. More are arriving daily. Area women have asked for a literacy class. There are many women in the area whose husbands have left them, and who live by very poor means. Many other women are abused by husbands suffering from alcoholism. Ben Van would like to start a support group for them there. Many of the people lack basic knowledge of sanitation and first aid. So much basic education is needed in that area.

Teacher Ban Ven is qualified to handle the rural educational needs here. He recently returned from a rural improvement training course in Japan that was partially sponsored by Rotary International! Ven grew up in this area and has 15 brothers and sisters. His only income is that what he makes as a farmer.

Pauline Johns’ family has donated money for desks and school supplies for this school and it’s students. Jim Goodwin has donated a bicycle for this teacher. The Rotary Club of Gravenhurst has donated US$87 towards the cost of the 51 student books the children are now learning from. This tiny school, built on the dream of one man with the help of the villagers themselves, is well on its way to providing basic education for these rural people.

July will see a Giant Garage Sale in Muskoka that will go towards the continuing needs of this rural school which is supported by ‘ A Mine Free World Foundation’. Money raised will go towards a concrete floor for this school to ease conditions in the rainy season. More bikes, sandals, clothes and school bags are needed for these children. I am looking for a Gravenhurst location to hold this sale…please contact me if you can help.

It was an immense joy to see the eagerness of the children to learn at this tiny school.

In Cambodian culture, it is not polite to visit an area, give out gifts, and then leave. The rest of he afternoon was spent visiting and eating with rural families.

It was a long but happy day, and by late afternoon our team of volunteers headed to Takeo city where we spent the night in a small guesthouse to rest up for the next days events…going back to Phnom Penh with 5 local blind and diseased children. They, and their parents were coming back to Phnom Penh with us to seek medical attention for their various conditions. Vanthon and I had identified them when we were doing the home-interviews for the bike applicants during our last visit there. Pauline Johns is now sponsoring their medical treatment. More on this in my next blog entry.