I had hired a house in Phnom Penh for future activities. I think, it was the 3rd day after my arrival in Cambodia when all of the sudden about ten children stood right in the entrance and asked for alms. We opened the doors for them, grabbed some paper and pens and got them something to eat.

 

Since that very day our doors were opened for the children every day.

 

In an uprising villa district surrounded by ghetto and houses secured with walls, security guard or barbed wire we let our doors opened all day long for the children.

 

About 40 youngsters of all social classes appeared daily to read books, draw pictures, play or simply be there together.

 

Soon parents, neighbours and taxi drivers joined and enjoyed gathering together and spending time with each other. Sounds of laughter, dancing, noise and playing around in the neighbourhood were not possible to think away anymore.

 

About one month later I engaged two Cambodians to help me and in a small room in the rear we started to work on wooden housemodels to be able to finance the Club furthermore.

 

Unfortunately, my private financial resources run dry and we had to close the Club in May 2007.

 

For both, the children and us, the four months together were an unforgettable time, a time without gates, walls and social differences and complied with everything that we all need: the spontaneity and impartiality of children.

 

Everything else the pictures do tell :)

 

(January – May 2007)