Trailblazing in Siem Reap

Bio-Sand Water Filters Being Loaded for Delivery

One down.

The filter at-work next to a cement ring well. This well and filter provides 3 families with a consistent supply of clean, potable water. This little boy and his family was one of 8 families we provided bio-sand water filters to that day.

Additional photos can be viewed at: http://picasaweb.google.com/robyou/TrailblazerFoundationSiemReapCambodia82862010?feat=directlink

Steve and I just finished our week of volunteering in Cambodia with the Trailblazer Foundation (www.thetrailblazerfoundation.org) and we were left with the feeling of what more could we do. Although my closest friend Sokunthea is Cambodian and her family fled from the war, it wasn't until we arrived here and have read up on the history that I understand the full extent of what occurred. As many of you know, Cambodia is one of the poorest countries in the world, having suffered the devastating effects of genocide during Pol Pot’s Khmer Rouge regime (1975-79). A couple million people, representing nearly 20% of the population, died as a result of mass executions, disease, forced labor, and starvation during this period. Educated people were systematically eliminated, especially doctors and teachers.

Cambodia’s economy and infrastructure were left in tatters. As a result, recovery has been slow and difficult. All of this took place in a country already confronted by frequent drought conditions, poor health care, disease, famine, and a lack of potable water. Through it all the Khmer people have struggled to survive, trying desperately to rise up and rebuild their lives. With little to no infrastructure, the average rural Cambodian earns on average 25 cents a day. One out of every seven children dies before the age of five, many from preventable water-borne diseases. Access to water and sanitation, an adequate food supply, education, and economic opportunity is a challenge millions of Cambodians continue to face every day.

I encourage folks to read about Trailblazer's work at www.thetrailblazerfoundation.org

We'll write an email soon to tell you more about this organization and our experience volunteering with them.