Volunteer with Us

Volunteer with Us

Volunteering at our School is truly a remarkable experience for anyone who wants to make a positive impact on the lives of local children. 

By living with locals, you’ll also get a chance to experience authentic Cambodian village life. We offer many experiences for our volunteers. To start, you can teach English in morning and afternoon classes, engage in artsy activities, read books, play games, sing or dance with children, and bring joy and inspiration to their lives by simply showing up and being yourself. Moreover, our cultural exchange program immerses you in Cambodia’s rich culture and history. It’s a great way to give back to the community and an opportunity to explore the stunning beauty of Siem Reap and the surrounding countryside on a tuk-tuk.

We highly recommend our homestay options for those seeking an immersive Cambodian cultural experience while volunteering with us. To support the continued success of our community, we ask for a small donation fee of $8 per day (per person) for those who choose to stay with us at our homestays. This fee includes three meals plus water, coffee, and tea. Additionally, you’ll have the pleasure of waking up to delectable coconut waffles each morning and indulging in family-style lunches and dinners while learning the Khmer language and delving into authentic Cambodian village life.

You can take a private tour of the beautiful Angkor Wat or join other volunteers on a village tour to meet the locals and witness the changes as we continue to provide education and community services in Speankaek and Phum O villages. These options are an excellent way to take your volunteering experience to the next level and maximize your time in Siem Reap. 

Plenty of volunteer opportunities are available for those interested in our upcoming projects, such as remodeling the library and classrooms, general maintenance of the school grounds, and participating in special projects, including building playgrounds and homes in the local community.

Guide to Volunteering

Follow the guide for Volunteering with us. If you have any questions, please contact us.
  1. Read our Volunteer FAQs below and let us know if you have additional questions using our Contact Us form.
  2. Read and agree to our Safeguarding and Code of Conduct Policy.
  3. Complete a Volunteer Application.
  4. Upon review and approval, a team member will contact you for onboarding.
  5. Join us and make a positive difference.
So that you know, there is no cost to volunteer here. As NGOs that provide free education to students in our villages and beyond, we rely on the support of our volunteers and the public to continue our work.

Volunteer FAQs

1. What kind of volunteering opportunities are available at your Organization in Siem Reap, Cambodia?

 

A: We offer many experiences for our volunteers. To start, you can teach English in morning and afternoon classes at HELO School in Speankaek Village or at our extended center in Phum O Village, engage in artsy activities, read books, play games, sing or dance with children, and bring joy and inspiration to their lives by simply showing up and being yourself. 

Moreover, our cultural exchange program immerses you in Cambodia’s rich culture and history. You can take a private tour of the beautiful Angkor Wat or join other volunteers on a village tour to meet the locals and witness the changes as we continue to provide education and community services in surrounding villages.

In addition, plenty of volunteer opportunities are available for those interested in remodeling the library and classrooms, general maintenance of the school grounds, and participating in special projects such as building playgrounds and homes in the local community.

2. What are the requirements to volunteer with your organization?

 

A: We strongly believe that the most essential requirement is love. Love for working with children, love for learning, and love for laughter are the keys to making a significant difference in our community. Our volunteers come from diverse backgrounds, and having previous teaching experience is optional. 

What truly matters is your passion to create a positive impact in the lives of our students. We welcome anyone willing to spread kindness and make a lasting impact in our community.

3. What is the duration of a typical volunteering program at your organization?

 

A: Volunteering at our School is a fantastic experience that typically lasts at least two weeks. Although we require a minimum two-week stay, we understand that circumstances may differ and are willing to accommodate a lesser term if necessary. It is essential to note that the maximum volunteer stay at our Organization is 30 days. No matter your length of stay, don’t hesitate to be a part of our team and make a difference in the lives of our students.

4. What is the process to apply for a volunteering program with your organization?

 

A: To volunteer with us, you must complete the application thoroughly and accurately. Our team will review your application, and if it meets our standards, we will contact you for verification and onboarding. It is essential to understand that additional background and reference checks are mandatory to ensure the safety and security of our students. We take teaching roles seriously here and expect our volunteers to do the same. 

5. What support is provided to volunteers during their stay?

 

A: At our School, we provide comprehensive informational support to our volunteers during their stay. Our team members are available to assist with visa consultations, airport pick up and drop off, laundry services, things to do in Siem Reap, and to put you in touch with local tuk-tuk drivers or scooter rental companies before and during your stay. 

We understand the importance of our volunteers’ safety and well-being; therefore, we have a first aid kit on site and referrals to local hospitals and doctors if needed. Our teachers are provided with learning materials, and if additional resources are required, we will do our best to accommodate you in the classroom. Please be advised that we do not provide financial assistance or travel support at this time.

6. Is it necessary to have teaching experience to volunteer?

 

A: Volunteering with us is an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of our students. Your passion for learning, laughing, and working with children is all that is required to become a part of our team. 

Teaching roles are not just jobs but a chance to inspire a new generation. Here, we take pride in our commitment to the safety and security of our students. Join us in this noble endeavor and help us create a brighter future for our children.

7. Can volunteers choose the age group of students they want to work with?

 

A: Our Organization provides morning and afternoon classes for primary to secondary level students, while young adults attend the evening classes. The standard commitment for volunteer work is 4-5 hours per day, with assigned afternoon classes and the option to participate in morning classes with our younger students or evening classes with our young adultsWe also encourage volunteer teachers to try teaching different age groups, as each level can contribute to their teaching experience.

8. Will I teach at HELO School?

 

A: Volunteers should remain flexible to assist with teaching at our School in Speankaek Village or at our extended center in Phum O Village, depending on the need for help at either location at the time of onboarding. 

9. What is the accommodation like for volunteers at your School?

 

AWe highly recommend our homestay option if you’re interested in immersing yourself in Cambodian culture while volunteering at our School. You can enjoy one of our homestays below for just $8 per day. Please note that this fee is calculated per day (per person) for the duration of your stay.

Location A: At our School in Speankaek village, you can enjoy a cozy and comfortable private (or shared) room with a private (or shared) bathroom and shower, fan, mosquito net, Wi-Fi, and immediate classroom access. This option offers an immersive Cambodian cultural experience while staying with locals Sophara and Dalin. 

Location B: At our center in Phum O village, you can enjoy a cozy and comfortable private (or shared) room with a shared bathroom and shower, fan, Wi-Fi, and immediate classroom access. This option offers an immersive Cambodian cultural experience while staying with locals Sarath and his family.

These are excellent ways to take your volunteering experience to the next level and maximize your time in Siem Reap. While preferences are chosen during the application process, we ask our volunteers to be flexible with the availability of our homestay options and our current need for help at either location. If you prefer to stay in the city, we can help arrange accommodations at preferred hotels, Airbnb, and hostels. 

10. What meals are provided for volunteers?

 

A: Besides accommodations, you can enjoy breakfast daily and family-style lunches and dinners with authentic Khmer food while learning the Khmer language and experiencing Cambodian village life. 

All three meals provided throughout your stay include water, coffee, and tea. We can accommodate your request if you have any dietary restrictions or prefer vegetarian meals. Just let us know your meal preference during your application submission.

We understand that our volunteers may want to explore the town and its local eateries for dinner during evenings on weekdays or at any time on the weekends. Therefore, you may forego homestay meals anytime; however, a small donation will still be required and appreciated.  

11. Can you tell me more about your organization’s locations?

 

A: Our organization (School) is located in Speankaek Village, just a 30-minute tuk-tuk ride from the world-famous Angkor Wat temples in Siem Reap, 25 minutes from Pub Street, considered the center of the action as the night falls in Siem Reap, and 60 minutes from Siem Reap International Airport.  

Our center is located in Phum O Village, just a 20-minute bicycle ride from the School, a 35-minute tuk-tuk ride from the world-famous Angkor Wat temples in Siem Reap, 30 minutes from Pub Street, considered the center of the action as the night falls in Siem Reap, and 60 minutes from Siem Reap International Airport. 

But there is more – the ancient Bakong temples, located just 10 minutes away by tuk-tuk and seldom visited, are also within easy reach. 

12What are some tips for transportation to your School and around Siem Reap?

 

A: We aim to ensure our volunteers have a hassle-free travel experience. We offer pick-up services from Siem Reap International Airport for incoming flights or from the local bus stations for an additional fee. Upon arrival or later, this fee can be paid directly to our residential tuk-tuk driver. 

While our locations are a bit ways outside of the city center, if you need transportation to the city, we also offer convenient transportation options to explore the town center, local eateries, and tourist attractions. Our residential tuk-tuk driver is available to take you on a personalized ride experience to visit markets and Pub Street or even take a private tour of Angkor Wat for an additional fee. 

Or downloading the Grab App is helpful for other transportation options that fit your comfort and budget.

13. Is there any cost of volunteering at your organization?

 

ASo you know, there is no cost to volunteer here. As NGOs that provide free education to students in our village and beyond, we rely on the support of our volunteers and the public to continue our work.

However, to support the continued success of our community, we ask for a small donation fee starting at $8 per day (per person) for those who choose to stay with us at our homestays. This fee contributes to three meals daily, plus water, coffee, and tea. Please note that this fee is calculated per day (per person) for the duration of your stay.

14. How can volunteers contribute to the development of HELO beyond teaching?

 

A: As a volunteer at our School, you can significantly impact our students’ lives. Beyond teaching, you can contribute to the development of our organization by donating to various sections, such as sponsoring a child, building a home in the community, providing school supplies, uniforms, or even a teacher’s salary. Whether you spend one day or one month with us, your valuable time and effort are greatly appreciated. 

Please visit our donation page to learn more ways you can contribute to HELO and help us create a brighter future for our children.

15. Does your Organization provide visa assistance?

 

A: Volunteers without nationality in ASEAN countries must have visas to enter Cambodia and volunteer at HELO. Our team members are readily available to assist with obtaining an e-visa online or a visa on arrival. We strongly suggest that volunteers contact us with any questions or concerns about the visa process.

16. Is there anything else I should know before volunteering with your Organization?

 

A: Before volunteering with us, it’s essential to have a basic understanding of Siem Reap as a city in Cambodia. Siem Reap is a beautiful city in the southwestern region of Camb, with a rich history and culture. The town is famous for the majestic Angkor Wat temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting worldwide tourists. Siem Reap is a safe and welcoming city with friendly locals, delicious food, and many opportunities to explore. Check out more things to do in Siem Reap on Trip Advisor.

If you have any further questions about volunteering or donating or general inquiries about HELO School, please do not hesitate to contact us at volunteer@heloschool.com. We are more than happy to answer any questions you may have and help you on your journey to make a difference in the lives of our students.

Past Volunteers

Volunteer Application

We Need Your Help!

 If you would like to make a repeat donation, please don’t hesitate. Your contribution will help us provide free education to underprivileged children and young adults in Cambodia’s Siem Reap Province. Thank you for being so supportive!

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