Joseph McGoff was a unique and very inspirational person, who sadly passed away in August 2009. Joseph supported many causes, and Cambodia was a place that he held particularly dear to his heart. I hope to further Joseph’s aspirations by volunteering on a project in Atvea, near Siem Reap in Northern Cambodia. The charity I will be working with is Que Rico. I believe this exemplary project will benefit the local community of Atvea, and will hopefully enhance the lives of those facing the poverty and disease that are endemic in South-East Asia. More than 2 out of 5 Cambodians struggle to survive on less than £1 a day, and infant mortality rates are as high as 141 per 1,000 live births.
Both the local monks and the village chief have granted permission for the land to be used for the purposes of the project. I plan to travel to Cambodia in December for a month of voluntary work with Que Rico.
After three decades of war, civil conflict and genocide, Cambodia is recovering from the economic stagnation triggered by the elimination of key institutions, government records and academics. Through steady development and progress, Cambodia is emerging with a new sense of optimism and vibrancy, and tourism continues to invigorate the economy. This diversification of a predominately agricultural society and the influx of visitors has, however, brought with it sex-tourism and human exploitation. Corruption remains a problem and local landowners are subject to illegal eviction, many of them continuing to live in abject poverty.
The country ranks 124 out of 169 countries on the United Nations 2010 Human Development Index, and almost 80 percent of Cambodia's people live in rural areas, where poverty is concentrated. One out of three Cambodians is between 10 and 24 years of age, and landmines pose a grave hazard to internally migrating children. Que Rico recognises the need to support the Cambodian people, and strives to help strengthen the country’s social infrastructure and address economic disparities.
The primary objectives of the project are to provide nursery education, housing, a medical centre, agricultural initiatives and social care. Que Rico aims to implement comprehensive programmes to educate and help protect against child trafficking, whilst supporting local people to improve their standards of living. Que Rico will also work with the people of Atvea to address underlying community needs, with a focus on supporting families and specifically children and women impacted by substance abuse, violence, mental health issues and HIV.
All funds raised on my page will go directly to the charity Que Rico and contribute to their future work carried out in Cambodia. Your donations will make a huge difference and are greatly appreciated, thank you.
joseph-mcgoff.org.uk has been set-up by Joseph's sister Teresa in his memory.
