That was a dream for Anna Wythes, daughter of Phillip and Cheryl, Canowindra, who is heading to Cambodia next month to volunteer her time, skills and love for the

children who live at the ASPECA: Kampot Children’s Orphanage.

Anna began to follow her dream after she completed her teaching degree at Charles Sturt University, Bathurst and accepted a teaching position in Western Sydney.

She has always wanted to help children learn, but after three years in her career, became aware that this is not happening in many places throughout the world, especially Cambodia.

Anna decided that her skills as a primary teacher could be better utilised by volunteering at the ASPECA Orphanage.

The orphanage is located in the small rural village of Kampot and is home to over 60 children who are cared for by only one house mother.

Anna will be volunteering at the orphanage for six to nine months. She intends to set up an early learning

program for the younger children at the orphanage that will be sustainable on her return to Australia.

Anna independently organised her volunteer placement after taking the moral stand that the little money she has, should go directly to the children, therefore she has avoided using a volunteer tourism organisation to locate her placement.

Due to the recent economy slump Anna needs to raise funds to supplement her budget for resources for the kids.

A ‘Help Anna Care for Kids in Cambodia’, is taking place this Saturday January 24 at Porters Café, Bathurst.

All money raised at the fundraiser and any donations given will go directly towards buying resources for the kids at the orphanage.

If you are interested in attending the fundraising event or make a donation please contact Anna by email, annawythes@yahoo.com.au.