Immersion Team Serves Children in Siem Reap

From March 21 to 26, the Cambodia Immersion Team went to work with New Hope Orphanage in Siem Reap. The 18-member team included 14 eighth graders, Selena A., Grace C., A Yoon C., Danny C., Elaine J., Christine K., Aden L., Bria L., Jiyu L., Joshua L., Julian P., Adien R., Maddie R., and Kellen Y., and four staff members, Ms. Ayala, Ms. Kershner, Ms. Roop, and Mr. Treviño.

While working with the home, the students played group games, volleyball, and soccer, alongside leading the children at the home in crafts and songs. The team also helped complete a service project by partnering with the kids and houseparents at the home to paint the front wall. The team left their mark on the wall as a reminder of their time together. As the team’s time at New Hope home came to an end, they shared a meal with the children and tearful goodbyes with the hope of meeting again someday. In just three short days, the students' lives were touched by the relationships that they built with the children at the orphanage. 

The next morning at sunrise, the team went to Angkor Wat, where they explored the ruins of the ancient capital city. Afterwards, they went zip lining through the nearby jungle, an activity which proved to be a real highlight. Finally, the team headed back to another temple and spent the rest of the day by the poolside before heading to the night market. 

On the last morning, the team met “hero” rats that sniff landmines and help clear the path for the Khmer people to live safely. This was a cool opportunity to learn a little more about the history of Cambodia. 

The trip was a fantastic experience for the YISS eighth grade students, who had their lives touched by the opportunity to serve the children at New Hope Home!