Those involved with running NGOs and other voluntary organisations know how difficult it is to receive sufficient funding to meet their expenses. In addition, extensive research into responsible tourism was undertaken in Siem Reap during July 2008. A wide variety of visitors were interviewed, asking if they had witnessed examples of poverty, and if so, whether they wished to become involved. All of those who wanted to help felt frustrated because the information on projects is dispersed and not accessible in one place, making it difficult to make informed choices and have the confidence that any support given would be used for the proper purposes.
Therefore, there is a need to bring together the organisations and the supporters, and to:
provide a staffed information service to:
improve the promotion of projects and activities
be a one-stop point of information, making it easier for visitors to find out about, and engage with, local causes
give visitors the confidence that the causes they select to assist are well managed and will deliver real benefits
increase the amount of funds, volunteering and other engagement in responsible tourism activities
promote a wider range of projects and activities
extend the geographical range of organisations receiving help
fund all this and make it sustainable
These needs are achievable because Siem Reap only receives a fraction of the potential help available. The reasons for this include:
a large proportion of the monetary help and volunteer assistance is still given on an ad hoc basis after people arrive
many people who eventually become involved had no intention to do so when they planned their visit
the average length of stay is only 3-4 days
most people who are willing to contribute are unable to find information on projects during their stay
Greater awareness through: promotion in the hotels, guesthouses and restaurants; easier access to information in one location; and the endorsement by ConCERT.. will help more people to become involved in responsible tourism activities and increase the level of support received by the local communities.
So, what’s been happening in the world of ConCERT lately?
Cambodia has two international airports, Phnom Penh, and Siem Reap-Angkor. Siem Reap airport is 7 kilometres from the town centre and is a 20 minute taxi ride. Alternatively you can take a tuk-tuk... More...
Those involved with running NGOs and other voluntary organisations know how difficult it is to receive sufficient funding to meet their expenses. In addition, extensive research into responsible tourism was undertaken in Siem Reap during July 2008. A wide variety of visitors were interviewed, asking if they had witnessed examples of poverty, and if so, whether they wished to become involved. All of those who wanted to help felt frustrated because the information on projects is dispersed and not accessible in one place, making it difficult to make informed choices and have the confidence that any support given would be used for the proper purposes. 
