GlobeMed at the University of Denver partners with Buddhism for Social Development Action in Kampong Cham, Cambodia to assist marginalized people in their social development.
GlobeMed at the University of Denver + BSDA
Chapter
GlobeMed at the University of Denver| Denver, Colorado
Partner
Buddhism for Social Development Action (BSDA) | Kampong Cham, Cambodia
Key Fact
Buddhism for Social Development Action was founded after community members living near the Nokor Bachey Buddhist Temple criticized the monks, stating that they preach altruism but hardly ever employ it. After hearing the rumors, seven monks were deeply hurt and decided to start BSDA, funding the first three years of its work entirely on their own.
“I want to give the chance to young university student to understand more about real situation of poor community in developing country like Cambodia as well as the Cambodian culture. I want to promote BSDA among university student in the globalization and find more chance to help support the poor community through sustainable activities to assist them to access the health care service.”
– Vandong Thorn, Executive Director of BSDA
About the Partnership
Buddhism for Social Development Action was founded in 2005 by Buddhist monks from the Nokor Bachey Temple to bring social solidarity, democracy, and integrity to the poorest members of Cambodian society. BSDA believes that by empowering women, children, and marginalized people, they can bring about a society where people are empowered to fully exercise their potential to live in dignity, peace and free of poverty.
The GlobeMed chapter at University of Denver felt immediately connected with BSDA’s emphasis on human dignity and peaceful action when their partnership began in the fall of 2011. Since beginning its partnership, the GlobeMed chapter has raised over $3,000 for BSDA’s income generating activities for families living with HIV.
Project
This year, GlobeMed at the University of Denver is working with Buddhism for Social Development Action to implement a fish pond and gardening program which will provide food and a source of income to families living with HIV/AIDS. They aim to provide supplies and training for the fish ponds and gardens for 36 families. This will benefit the families and give them incentive to help themselves instead of relying solely on aid.
Impact
Not only will families generate income from these activities, they will also be provided with a sustainable source of food that will allow them to thrive despite their HIV status. Over time they may also be able to sell enough food to pay for travel costs to get to the health center for HIV treatment.
Get Involved
Read GlobeMed at University of Denver’s annual report and donate to their cause. Interested in joining the chapter? Contact denver@globemed.org.
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