February 2022: Every Picture Tells a Story

EVERY PICTURE TELLS A STORY

Earlier this month, we visited two families to evaluate if they might qualify for new Heartprint homes. They were a bit away from our normal stomping grounds and it reminded us - once again - of the tremendous needs existing all across Cambodia. It can, honestly, sometimes seem overwhelming.

But then we made a surprise visit to two families whose homes we built in the past and that reminded us how everything we do creates a small sea of change in the world. The families, in their Heartprint homes, are living in a safe and clean environment. The kids are in school. The families have made additions to their homes, and they are taking advantage of the services available at our HoPE initiative. All Minds Matter, Build a Future, and Social Support relief. These programs are helping them continue to improve not only their lives but also their children's future.

On top of these two families there are numerous other families also taking advantage of learning new skills. Their children are learning how to speak English, express their creativity, be healthy, move with joy and so much more, including extra help with school lessons if they need it. 
So as we remind ourselves that small changes generate big waves, we remind you that every time you commit a few dollars to our work, when you share our stories, or when you volunteer to help us, you are a force behind the generation of big waves. Thank you.

Speaking of pictures telling stories: we have been teaching Powerpoint skills and strategies to our computer class kids. Their final project was to create a Powerpoint called “A Week in my LIfe” to present to the class. They were brilliant. Their presentations did tell us the story of their everyday lives and helped them overcome their fear of speaking to a group - all while expanding their computer skills. We were all better for the experience. Have a look.

Oh, and then there is volunteering. For us, even saying this word out loud causes us to exhale with extreme gratitude and relief. Because for two years all of our volunteer activities have been held hostage by Covid. But now! We - and you - can travel again! You can come to Siem Reap and be a hands-on wave-maker. Check out all the volunteer details at heartprint.org.au/volunteer

OR why not take on an internship with us. For interns, we do ask you to commit to at least four weeks. Or you can choose to stay as long as 52 weeks. You will work alongside us five days a week and really absorb yourself and find out what it is like to work in a charitable organisation in a developing country. Maybe you specialise in a specific area and would like to share your knowledge, you can also work on your own pre approved activities. There is a minimal cost to you so we can support your accommodation, in-country transportation and the small salary of our volunteer coordinator. But the investment will change your life. And, the lives of all the amazing people you will help. Promise.

You know how we feel about education. It is the keystone to advancement and financial stability - and to greater understanding and happiness. We love the fact that all young children have access to free public education. It’s the fees that come after the free part that become obstacles for many families. One of those fees is that students must purchase their school-branded uniforms directly from the school. For some, this is not even in the realm of affordability.

This month, with the help of the Heartprint Heart of Gold Club, we coordinated across eight schools, consulted with children and families about their needs, and were able to supply 19 formal school uniforms, 9 sports uniforms, and 6 pairs of shoes for kids to return to school. To learn. To help their communities and country become stronger. To make waves.

Finally (although check out our Facebook page because there is so much more there), everyone needs just a little bit of drama, huh? Our Creative Arts program at the HoPE Initiative includes a drama module and the kids really had a chance to shine. The pictures tell the story. Check them out.

As ever, thank you for being here for Heartprint and the people in our community. Thank you.