Journeys Within Our Community: Nonprofit, Charity, and Philanthropy in Cambodia and Southeast Asia

Large scale disasters such as the 2004 Tsunami or Hurricane Katrina draw international media attention, support and relief efforts. However, small scale disasters, both natural and man made, occur with unfortunate frequency within developing countries. It is usually the poorest people who are affected and who have the least ability to help themselves. In these situations there is no media reporting on the events and no social or government programs to aid those in need. In fact, all too often the situation is ignored and people are left to fend for themselves.

We stand ready to take action when crisis occur and families are in need of immediate aid. Our only limit is the resources we have to draw from. By contributing to the Emergency Relief Fund you are playing a part in ensuring that we are able to provide this kind of immediate aid. Having funds designated for emergency use means that we do not have to pull funds from other projects or spend time appealing to donors for help.

Read about the January Village Fire...

See our Cyclone Nargis Myanmar Relief work...

Please visit our "Donate Now" page to make a contribution to the emergency fund and help us ensure the relief is there even before it is needed.

What JWOC is doing

A JWOC Emergency Relief Fund has been created as a way of providing immediate relief when it is most needed. This relief could come in the form of simple blankets and rice or it could be provided as interest free loans. Part of JWOC's operational philosophy is to remain flexible in order to best respond to problems on the ground. In the past, JWOC has been the only responder to local crisis situations and we seek to maintain a state of readiness should another emergency present itself.

Our ability to respond quickly and effectively is an asset many larger organizations and government agencies lack. We appreciate any contributions towards the JWOC Emergency Relief Fund as it helps us build up our resources for the next time a swift response is required. While contributing to a fund such as this may not be as exciting as seeing a well installed or a student given a scholarship, the impact it makes when used is no less. Please click on the link above to read the story of a local village fire that occurred and left almost 40 families destitute.