Volunteer with Us
Introduction to Volunteering
Volunteering with us is a unique chance to experience authentic Cambodian village life and make a lasting impact. By living alongside locals, you’ll gain meaningful insight into Khmer culture and community life.
As a volunteer, you can:
Teach English in morning, afternoon, or evening classes
Lead creative activities such as arts and crafts, reading, games, singing, or dancing
Participate in cultural exchange programs to deepen your understanding of Cambodian traditions
Explore the beauty of Siem Reap and the surrounding countryside by tuk-tuk
For a truly immersive experience, we recommend our homestay option. A small donation of $8 per day (per person) helps sustain our programs and includes three home-cooked meals, water, coffee, and tea.
In your free time, you can:
Tour the iconic Angkor Wat
Join a village walk to meet locals and see the positive changes our education programs bring
Visit the lively city of Siem Reap, just 15 minutes away
You can also support community projects, including:
Remodeling classrooms and the library
School grounds maintenance
Building playgrounds or homes for local families
There is no fee to volunteer. As grassroots NGOs offering free education to local children, we rely on volunteers and donors to continue our mission. Every effort—big or small—helps create a better future for our students and community. We’re excited to have you join us!
Guide to Volunteering with Us
Thank you for your interest in volunteering! Follow the steps below to ensure a smooth application process. If you have questions, feel free to contact us.
1. Review Our Volunteer FAQs
Check out our FAQ section for answers to common questions. For anything else, email us at volunteerwithHELO@gmail.com.
2. Read and Agree to Our Policies
Please review our Safeguarding and Code of Conduct Policy to help maintain a safe and respectful space for all.
3. Submit Your Volunteer Application
Complete the online application and upload the required documents. Once reviewed, a coordinator will contact you for onboarding.
4. Required Documents
A passport copy (valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay)
A background check or police clearance (valid for at least one year prior or after, and obtained at your expense through your local authorities or an online provider)
5. Sign the Volunteer Agreement
After your documents are approved, you’ll be asked to sign the agreement.
6. Onboarding Process
A coordinator will reach out to:
Confirm your application
Answer your questions
Arrange pick-up and arrival details
7. Final Confirmation
At least one week before your arrival, you’ll receive a confirmation email that includes:
Arrival and pick-up details (if applicable)
Helpful volunteer resources
An invitation to join our WhatsApp group chat for ongoing communication
Volunteer FAQs
1. What volunteering opportunities are available?
Volunteers can teach English, lead creative activities (arts, crafts, games, singing, dancing), assist with classroom maintenance and school beautification, and participate in community projects such as building playgrounds or homes. Cultural exchange is encouraged through village tours and local engagement.
2. Is there a cost to volunteer?
Volunteering is free. However, a daily donation of $8 is requested from those staying at our homestays. This covers three daily meals and basic amenities, helping to support school operations and community programs.
3. What are the requirements to volunteer?
No teaching experience is necessary. A positive attitude, willingness to help, and love for children are most important. Volunteers must complete the Volunteer Application, submit required documents, and sign our Volunteer Agreement.
4. What documents do I need to submit?
You must provide:
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A copy of your passport (valid for at least 6 months from your arrival)
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A background check, DBS, or police clearance from your country of residence (at your own expense)
For guidance by country, please refer to the links provided on our website. If your country is not listed, contact your consulate or search online for options.
5. What’s the difference between HELO and LLCCA?
HELO School – Located in Speankaek village, hosted by Sophara. Serves 200+ students and accommodates up to 15 volunteers. Offers vibrant campus life with shared and private spaces and a library.
LLCCA – Located in Phum O village, hosted by Sarath. Serves 120+ students in a more intimate setting. Hosts up to 4 volunteers and is deeply rooted in the local community. Volunteers enjoy shared spaces and village immersion.
Volunteers from both schools are added to a shared WhatsApp group for communication and group activities.
6. What accommodation options are available?
Volunteers stay in homestays with private or shared rooms and bathrooms, mosquito nets, fans, and Wi-Fi. Accommodations are located in either Speankaek or Phum O villages. City-based lodging can be arranged at the volunteer’s expense.
7. Are accommodations with Air Conditioning available?
Yes. Based on availability, volunteers can upgrade to a room with installed Air Conditioning for an additional $8 per day. This amount will be added to your total accommodation fee.
8. What meals are provided?
Three fresh, home-cooked meals are served daily (breakfast, lunch, dinner). Vegetarian and dietary requests are honored when communicated in advance. Volunteers may bring snacks, but we do not provide refrigeration or storage for personal food items.
9. Where are you located?
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HELO: Speankaek Village – 60 min from Siem Reap Airport, 30 min to Angkor Wat, 25 min to Pub Street.
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LLCCA: Phum O Village – 65 min from Siem Reap Airport, 35 min to Angkor Wat, and 5 min from HELO.
10. What is the daily volunteer schedule?
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Morning class: 8:00–10:00 AM
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Afternoon class: 2:00–4:00 PM
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Optional evening class: 5:00–8:00 PM
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Meal times: 7:30 AM (breakfast), 12:30 PM (lunch), 8:30 PM (dinner)
Free time is available between and after classes, and weekends are off.
11. What are my roles and expectations as a volunteer?
Volunteers assist Khmer teachers, supervise students during tests, lead games or lessons, help with school upkeep, and contribute at least 4 hours of work per day. Being flexible, respectful, and proactive is essential.
12. What support is provided?
We assist with visa letters, airport pickup (extra fee), transport, emergency contacts, and teaching materials. We do not cover personal travel, insurance, or medical costs.
13. What safety measures are in place?
We have emergency protocols, access to local health services, first aid supplies, and guidance on health and wellness. Your safety and comfort are a priority.
14. What health and safety steps should I take before traveling?
Please consult your doctor or travel clinic about vaccinations or health precautions before coming to Cambodia. You should also check your home country’s travel advisory for Cambodia. Valid health and travel insurance is required for all volunteers.
15. What kind of visa is needed?
A 30-day tourist visa (T-visa) is acceptable and can be obtained online or upon arrival. We can provide a Letter of Confirmation (LOC) upon request. This letter must be used only for volunteering. Misuse will be reported to the immigration authorities.
16. What should I know about local customs and attire?
Cambodia is conservative. Lightweight, modest clothing is best. Shoulders should be covered in the classroom. Please remove your shoes before entering homes or classrooms. Be respectful of local traditions.
17. What should I know about communication?
You may contact us via WhatsApp before and during your stay. After arrival, you’ll be added to a WhatsApp group with other volunteers for updates and support.
18. How do I get to the school?
We offer pickup from the airport, bus station, or local hostel (fee applies). You may also use a tuk-tuk or the Grab app. We’ll share the exact location via Google Maps.
19. Can I contribute beyond teaching?
Yes! You can donate school supplies, sponsor a child, or help with building projects. Contact us at volunteerwithHELO@gmail.com or visit our donation page for more info.
20. What else should I know?
Siem Reap is a safe, tourist-friendly city with a rich history and stunning attractions like Angkor Wat. Explore local markets, temples, and cultural experiences on your days off. Visit TripAdvisor for more information on current experiences in Siem Reap.
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!
