On November 25, the Child Jesus Catholic Church in Phnom Penh’s Boeung Tompun commune will host a special charity concert aimed at transforming the lives of children with autism. This event, blending the timeless beauty of classical music with a heartfelt mission, seeks to raise funds for constructing a dedicated 10-storey school for children with special needs.
A Concert for a Cause
The event, titled Mozart Spiritual Bouquet, promises an inspiring evening of music and community spirit. Performances by the Cambodia Opera Project and MusiCA, under the artistic direction of Japanese mezzo-soprano Ai Iwasaki, will feature some of Mozart’s most cherished compositions. “Music has the power to heal, unite, and inspire action,” Iwasaki remarked, emphasizing the concert’s purpose of raising awareness and support.
Free seating will be available, while sponsors can enjoy VIP seats through various contribution tiers: Gold ($1,000), Silver ($500), and Bronze ($100). Attendees will also benefit from food, refreshments, and nursery facilities to ensure an inclusive and comfortable experience.
Building a Future for Special Education
The funds raised will support the construction of a state-of-the-art facility for the Growing Special Education School (GSES), which has been a lifeline for families of children with autism since 2017. Currently operating from three rented flats, GSES serves 313 children but struggles to meet the growing demand for specialized education and therapy. The new facility will include classrooms, therapy rooms, sensory spaces, a nursery, and even a swimming pool, at an estimated cost of $1.65 million. With $1 million still needed, the community’s support is crucial.
Phok Many, the founder of GSES and a mother of an autistic child, initiated this project to address the lack of educational opportunities for children with special needs. “This school is more than just a building; it’s a symbol of hope and equality,” she explained.
Transforming Lives
GSES has already made a significant impact, with over 50 children transitioning into general education schools. Parents like Kem Davonn shared heartfelt stories of transformation. “When my son first started, he could barely speak and displayed challenging behavior. Today, he’s thriving in a general school,” she said. Grateful for the school’s support, she and her family remain active supporters of its mission.
Beyond education, GSES alleviates the burden on families. By providing a safe and nurturing environment for children, it enables parents to work and improves family dynamics.
Challenges and the Path Ahead
Despite these achievements, families of children with autism in Cambodia continue to face stigma and limited resources. Many encounter prejudice when attempting to integrate their children into mainstream schools. This underscores the importance of initiatives like GSES and events like the charity concert, which aim to break barriers and foster inclusivity.
According to estimates, Cambodia is home to over 20,000 children with autism, yet resources remain scarce. The World Health Organization highlights the need for increased awareness and support for children with autism, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
How You Can Contribute
The charity concert invites individuals and businesses to support this transformative project. Contributions can be made by attending the event, sponsoring a tier, or donating directly to GSES. Each act of generosity brings Cambodia’s children with autism closer to a future of hope and opportunity.
Together, let’s turn melodies into milestones and build a brighter tomorrow for these exceptional children and their families.
The charity concert, titled “Mozart Spiritual Bouquet,” will take place on November 25 at the Child Jesus Catholic Church, located in Boeung Tompun commune, Meanchey district, Phnom Penh. This event aims to raise funds for constructing a 10-storey school dedicated to children with autism.
Event Details:
- Date: November 25
- Venue: Child Jesus Catholic Church
- Location: Boeung Tompun commune, Meanchey district, Phnom Penh
- Purpose: Fundraising for a new school for children with autism
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