Join helping hands and volunteer to build better lives

"Arkun Build"

Cambodia – November 2025

29 November - 6 December 2025

Battambang

Cambodia

Registrations close by October 1, 2025

Unlock Siem Reap's Splendor: A Week of Impact, A Lifetime of Memories

Embark on a journey through Cambodia’s vibrant tapestry, from the ancient wonders of the Khmer Empire to the modern tragedies of Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge. While the scars of Cambodia’s past are still healing, the Khmer spirit remains resilient, buoyed by significant economic progress in recent decades. However, Cambodia grapples with being one of the world’s poorest nations, where inequality persists, with 18 percent of the population and 36 percent of young people living below the poverty line. Basic facilities are a challenge for many, and rudimentary housing with dirt floors and fragile structures is commonplace.

In the heart of Cambodia lies Battambang, renowned as the country’s rice bowl, where fragrant and Jasmine varieties flourish. Despite its agricultural importance, Battambang faces urbanization challenges, with slum areas along old railways and the Sangker River. In these areas, access to education is limited, and residents face health risks, overcrowding, and inadequate sanitation. Climate change exacerbates these issues, leaving the poorest even more vulnerable to natural disasters.

Yet, amidst these challenges, hope shines through. Habitat for Humanity Australia, in partnership with Global Village volunteers, works tirelessly to provide safe, affordable housing for vulnerable families in Battambang. Together, they strive to turn dreams of decent housing into reality, supporting those living with illnesses, child-headed households, and older adults. Volunteers, standing shoulder to shoulder with partner families, dedicate a week to building not just homes, but brighter futures.

“Arkun” means “thank you” in Khmer. Join us on the Arkun Build. Together, we can build homes and hope in Battambang, Cambodia.

Through shelter, we empower.

Sample Itinerary

29th November – 6th December

The perfect time of year to visit Cambodia!

Saturday: Arrive in Siem Reap

Your build week begins today with your arrival in Siem Reap! Habitat will arrange your transfer from Siem Reap Airport to the hotel, where you have time to unpack and unwind. Take yourself on a walk to acquaint yourself with the city before heading back to the hotel for dinner. You will finally get to meet your fellow volunteers, your Team Leader and the Habitat for Humanity coordinator who will be accompanying you for the week. Habitat for Humanity staff will give you a thorough orientation for the week ahead, including construction safety and building tips.

Sunday: Introduction to culture and community

After a good night’s sleep, the team will depart for Battambang to spend the afternoon familiarising themselves with the local community and culture with some special activities for you all to enjoy. That evening, Habitat for Humanity staff will give you a thorough orientation for the week ahead, including construction safety and building tips, before dinner. Make sure you have a good rest to prepare for your first day on site the following day!

Monday: Begin construction of the house

Arriving on the build site for your first day of construction, you’ll meet the family whose home you will be helping to construct, and will have the opportunity to learn about their stories. The construction supervisor and local labourers will show you the ropes, and you can get started on the house construction. There will be rest breaks for morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea, which will all be provided on site. You can stop for a drink of water and a break as often as you need. At the end of the day, you’ll enjoy a team dinner and a well-earned rest!

Tuesday to Thursday: Full days building with your teammates

For the next few days you will see the new house take shape. You will be amazed at how much can be achieved in just one week. From laying bricks to mixing cement and rendering walls, there are plenty of ways to contribute. Each night we will take you to some local restaurants, where you can unwind with the team and get to know one another better. The evenings are a chance to relax and recharge your batteries for the following day’s work.

Friday: The handover ceremony and celebration

The final day of building has arrived. You will add the finishing touches to the house and maybe even add some celebratory decorations too. You will welcome the partner family to their new home and reflect together on the contribution that you have all made. You will share a special farewell lunch with the whole team and the partner families. This is the time to celebrate all your hard work and imagine the new life that the partner family will have in the home that you have built. That evening, you will celebrate the team effort and the end of an incredible week at a special farewell dinner.

Saturday: Global Village concludes

Today you will depart for home or further adventures. You might like to combine your build with travel to other overseas destinations or indulge in some well-deserved R&R. Although your trip has come to a close, you will be left with amazing memories and long lasting friendships that will keep the experience alive.

Financial Contribution

Fundraising

Program Donation: $1,800

Once you register to a Global Village build you commit to donating $1,800 towards Habitat’s Programs. This program donation allows Habitat to fund our mission in countries where resources are very limited. Funding is used to support our operations so that we can reach out and serve more households. Some may choose to pay this amount themselves, but we encourage you to fundraise to reach this target, to immerse yourself in the cause, spread the message about Habitat’s mission and have fun along the way.

All donations over $2 are tax deductibl..

Program donation deadline: One month before build start date

Costs

Registration fee: $200, which you pay when you select a build.

This covers medical and evacuation insurance, your online fundraising page and a build pack to get you on your way. It is non-refundable but can be transferred to another build within 12 months.

In-country expenses: Estimated between $800 per person (twin share) – $1,000 per person (single room)

These “Build Week Costs” can be fundraised separately from the fundraising above but these donations are not tax deductible as they are your personal costs. This amount will go towards the budget that Habitat Australia and the host country will put together to cover your accommodation, meals, bottled water, snacks, ground transportation and local activities for the week.

In-country expenses payment due 6 weeks before build start date

What’s Included

- Habitat branded T-shirt and cap
- Accommodation
- All meals for the week
- Transportation to and from site, dinners and activities
- Social Learning Exchange Activities
- Airport pick up and drop off
- Snacks and water
- All necessary building materials and safety equipment
- 24 hour support
- Insurance whilst on the build site

What’s Not Included

Volunteers are responsible for booking these on their own:

Flights to and from the country
Travel Insurance
Visa
Vaccinations
Police Check (if not already current)
Any extra accommodation required outside the build week dates

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