Volunteer with Us
Introduction to Volunteering
Volunteering with us offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in authentic Cambodian village life while making a meaningful impact on our community. By living with locals, you’ll experience the warmth of Khmer culture firsthand.
As a volunteer, you can:
- Teach English in morning, afternoon or evening classes.
- Engage in creative activities like arts and crafts, reading, playing games, singing, or dancing with children.
- Participate in our cultural exchange program to deepen your understanding of Cambodia’s rich history and traditions.
- Explore the stunning beauty of Siem Reap and its surrounding countryside by tuk-tuk.
For an immersive experience, we recommend our homestay option, where you’ll enjoy living in the village while supporting the community. A small donation fee of $8 per day (per person) helps sustain our program. This includes three meals daily, along with water, coffee, and tea. Start your mornings with fresh coconut waffles, and enjoy family-style lunches and dinners while learning Khmer phrases and customs.
In your free time, you can:
- Take a private tour of Angkor Wat.
- Join a village tour to meet locals and see the positive changes our education and community services bring to surrounding villages.
- Visit the vibrant city of Siem Reap, only a 15-minute tuk-tuk ride away!
Additionally, volunteers can contribute to upcoming projects such as:
- Remodeling the library and classrooms.
- General maintenance of the school grounds.
- Building playgrounds or homes for the local community.
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. Every contribution, big or small, adds immense value to the lives of our students and community members. We look forward to welcoming you to our program and sharing this incredible journey with you!
Guide to Volunteering with Us
Thank you for your interest in volunteering! Please follow the steps below to ensure a smooth application process. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.
Review Our Volunteer FAQs:
View our Volunteer FAQs below. If you have additional questions, please use the Contact Us form or send us an email to volunteer@heloschool.com.Read and Agree to Our Policies:
Familiarize yourself with our Safeguarding and Code of Conduct Policy to ensure a safe and respectful environment for everyone.Complete a Volunteer Application:
Complete and submit the Volunteer Application form, including all required supporting documents. Upon review and pre-approval, a coordinator will contact you to begin onboarding.Required Supporting Documents:
- A copy of your passport: Ensure it has at least six months of validity remaining beyond your intended stay.
- A background check, DBS check, or police clearance: This must be obtained at your own expense through your local authorities, country-specific requirements, or via an online request.
Sign the Volunteer Agreement:
Once your application and documents are reviewed, you will be asked to review and sign the Volunteer Agreement.Onboarding:
A team member will contact you to:- Confirm and verify your application.
- Answer any remaining questions.
- Coordinate services for your arrival.
Final Confirmation
At least one week prior to your arrival, you will receive a final confirmation email. This will include:- Confirmation of your arrival details.
- Scheduled pick-up services (if applicable).
- Volunteer resources to help you prepare.
- An invitation to join our volunteer group chat on WhatsApp for ongoing communication during your stay.
Volunteer FAQs
1. What volunteering opportunities are available?
Volunteers can teach English, assist with creative activities (arts, crafts, games, singing, dancing), help remodel the library and classrooms, and participate in community projects like building playgrounds and homes. There are also opportunities for cultural exchange through local tours and community involvement.
2. Is there a cost to volunteer?
Volunteering is free, but a small daily donation of $8 is requested for those staying in our homestays. This covers three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and basic amenities, supporting community initiatives and school operations.
3. What are the requirements to volunteer?
A passion for working with children and a desire to make a positive impact. No prior teaching experience is required. Volunteers must submit a Volunteer Application (with required supporting documents) and sign our Volunteer Agreement.
4. What are the required supporting documents?
Volunteers must submit the following documents with their application:
- A copy of your passport, ensuring that it is valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date.
- A background check, DBS check, or police check from your country of residence (obtained at the volunteer’s expense).
5. What is the difference between HELO and LLCCA?
HELO: Hosted by founder Sophara in Speaknaek village, HELO serves over 200 students and accommodates up to 15 volunteers. It offers private and shared spaces, a library, sacred bungalows, and a vibrant community experience.
LLCCA: Hosted by Sarath in Phum O village, LLCCA serves over 120 students and can accommodate up to 4 volunteers. While it offers a more intimate experience, LLCCA is a fan favorite with cozy shared spaces, hammocks, and it is deeply embedded in the local community.
Both schools offer unique volunteer experiences. Note that volunteers from both schools are added to a group chat for communication on events and activities.
6. What are the accommodation options?
Volunteers stay in homestays with private or shared rooms and bathrooms, with access to amenities like Wi-Fi, a fan, and mosquito netting. Our homestays provide an immersive cultural experience with local families in Speankaek and Phum O villages. Alternative accommodations can be arranged in the city at the volunteer’s expense.
7. What meals are provided for volunteers?
Volunteers receive three meals daily: breakfast, lunch, and dinner with authentic Khmer food. Special dietary restrictions can be accommodated upon request. Volunteers are welcome to bring their own food, but note that there aren’t any accommodations to hold food as our meals are prepared fresh daily.
8. Where are your locations, and how far are they from key landmarks?
HELO School is in Speaknaek Village, 60 minutes from Siem Reap Airport, 30 minutes from Angkor Wat, and 25 minutes from Pub Street.
LLCCA is in Phum O Village, 5 minutes from HELO, 65 minutes from Siem Reap Airport, and 35 minutes from Angkor Wat.
9. What is the daily schedule for volunteers?
Volunteers typically teach from 8-10 am and 2-4 pm, with optional evening classes from 5-8 pm. Meals are served approx. at 7:30 am (breakfast), 12:30 pm (lunch), and 8:30 pm (dinner). Free time is available between classes and on weekends.
10. What roles and expectations are there for volunteers?
Volunteers assist with teaching, supervise students, organize educational activities, participate in building and maintenance projects, and lead recreational activities. We ask our volunteers to commit to at least 4 hours of work per day.
11. What support is provided to volunteers?
We provide visa assistance, airport pick-up, local transportation, activity recommendations, and emergency contacts. Volunteers receive teaching resources and support. Financial or travel support is not provided.
12. What safety measures are in place at HELO School?
We prioritize safety with emergency procedures, local health recommendations, COVID-19 protocols, and first aid supplies. Volunteers also have access to local medical referrals.
13. What visa type is acceptable for volunteering?
Volunteers can enter Cambodia with a tourist visa (T-visa). A letter of confirmation (LOC) is provided upon request, which is for volunteering only. Any misuse of this document will be reported to immigration authorities.
14. What should volunteers know about weather, attire, and local customs?
Siem Reap has a tropical climate with hot and humid conditions. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing, and dress modestly, especially in schools and public spaces. Women are required to wear undershirts or appropriate tops that cover their shoulders. Shoes must be removed before entering classrooms or homes.
15. What should volunteers know about communication?
Volunteers can contact us via WhatsApp for pre-arrival questions. Upon arrival, you will be added to a volunteer group chat for updates and communication with other volunteers.
16. How do I get to HELO School and around Siem Reap?
We offer pick-up services for an additional fee. Volunteers can also use tuk-tuks or the Grab app to get around.
17. How else can I contribute beyond teaching?
Volunteers can contribute by donating to causes like sponsoring children or supporting school projects. Visit our donation page for more information and contact us at volunteer@heloschool.com for any questions.
18. What else should I know before volunteering?
Siem Reap is a culturally rich city with attractions like the Angkor Wat temples. It is a safe and welcoming place for exploration. Visit Trip Advisor for more information.
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!
