Cambodian Dream Journal                  Sept 2011 

Editor's Note 

"Why there, why not here?" is a question I get asked often. "There is plenty of need, plenty of poor people right here in these United States of America." I have my answer ready and it is twofold:

First and foremost, because I am not rich enough. I am an immigrant and a middle class mom of three. I don't have a trust fund or stock options in my company from which I retired before 40. The few dollars I can put aside go a very short way here and a very long way there. And the kids in Cambodia don't mind if I bring them scuffed up shoes or jeans that another kid has worn through at the knee. I remember getting Adopt a Family Christmas lists from my daughters' school with a long list of clothes, coats and electronic games. For the amount of money I would spend on the Christmas list for one family here I could support a whole village there. I was always unhappy with the instructions to drop off new wrapped up toys for tots at the Firemen's station or new backpacks at back to school time. Sure, I can see why it is nice to receive new things, even if you are poor. But not when my own kids were getting Christmas gifts found at garage sales and thrift stores and wore hand me downs from the older sister.

Secondly, because there are plenty of governmental, religious and private organizations helping the needy here and very few that help the needy there. Hey, shouldn't the Cambodian government help their own people? Sure. How about donor nations and UNICEF and other big organizations? Sure, they send in billions of dollars, yet only cents trickle down. HeedJenni's advice and read the new book on Cambodia, that she recommends. You'll know where the millions end up!

It gives me great joy to be able to help children in Cambodia and beyond. It also feels nice to feel rich enough to be able to do it. Call me selfish if you want!

Best Regards,

Your Editor,

Ksenija Olmer

Director of Development