Wednesday, June 3, 2009

ConCERT... Connecting Communities, Environment & Responsible Tourism

Established in November 2008 on World ResponsibleTourism Day at Angkor Palace Resort & Spa by Michael Horton, ConCert is a Cambodian NGO with noble aims.

Despite the rich cultural and natural heritage in Cambodia, it is still one of the world’s poorest nations. In Siem Reap province, over half of the people live below the poverty line and a large number of organisations and NGOs are engaged in community development and support activities, which supplement the work of the government. Covering many sectors, these include the care of children, (orphanages, day centres & schools), education, agricultural development, infrastructure, women's issues, health, the care and rehabilitation of land mine victims, and environmental & biodiversity protection, etc.

The primary aim of ConCert is to reduce poverty by increasing the amount of support given to the organisations in and around Siem Reap. It plays an important facilitating role between organisations and NGOs engaged in community development and support work, and the various communities that need help.

ConCERT offers information on a range of activities that depend on public support, all of whom are well managed, financially transparent, and sustainable, working in partnership with local people. The types of assistance required varies from funding, purchase of materials, raising awareness and volunteers

As a socially responsible member of the community, Angkor Palace Resort & Spa is proud to be associated with ConCERT through the provision of a dedicated display area in the lobby. The area is used for the display of educational and informational materials to raise awareness of the role of the member organisations and their functions in supporting the various communities. Hotel guests are encouraged to browse through the display and participate in the programs.

For more information on ConCERT, click here