The History of Cambodia's Hope

After long careers in family systems therapy, Marvel and Terry Kellogg visited Cambodia in 1999 to adopt a two and a half year old girl named Sopahn. Four years later, Terry returned to Phnom Penh to visit the Palm Tree and Cham Chou Orphanages. He went there hoping to discover news about his daughter's birth parents, but instead found a desperate situation at both facilities. As a result of the U.S. State Department's moratorium on adoptions, funding was inadequate and the food budgets of both orphanages were cut. Both orphanages were anxiously trying to find money for food, and facilitators had run out of their personal funds. There were no extras and not enough of the basics.

In 2003, together with other caring friends and family, Terry and Marvel Kellogg formed the 501.c.3 charitable organization Cambodia's Hope. Initially, this organization provided funds to increase the food budget and to increase learning, adventures and outings. Currently, Cambodia's Hope is responsible for the well-being and education of the 93 children at the Palm Tree Orphanage. In the spring of 2005, land was purchased for farming.

Terry recalls, "I realized as I got to know the children that my life was taking on a new direction. I have been so inspired by the motivation, hard work and dedication, as well as the sacrifices made by the staff."

Cambodia's Hope is primarily interested in creating a safe living space for these children, and providing them with good nutrition, education, love and security. Until they are ready to become employed and independent, we will care for them and support them. Cambodia's Hope will supplement their learning with programs and with opportunities to become self-sufficient so that they can become leaders who will not forget where they have come from, who will reach back to their own roots and forge a new Cambodia.