In August 2012, FordHarrison began an ambitious fundraising project to raise money to build a school in the Prey Veng province of Cambodia.
In Cambodia, which has one of the lowest per capita incomes in the world, children in hundreds of rural villages have no access to education. In October 2012, the fundraising for the school was done - and then some. Instead of the $15,000 needed to fund the school, the firm raised more than $85,000. On January 3, 2013, FordHarrison officially opened the doors of The FordHarrison School.
As a result of its efforts, FordHarrison was able to not only provide funds to build a five-room primary school building and its continuing operation, but also:
- a teacher position dedicated to teaching English and computer skills;
- six computers and enough solar panels to power them;
- a satellite connection for Internet access;
- school supplies for 420 students and additional teaching supplies;
- a printer with ink cartridges and paper;
- a digital camera;
- book shelves and books; and
- a water filter and well.
After months of planning, Orlando partner Kay Wolf, Los Angeles partner Michelle Abidoye and Orlando legal assistant Amy Cook traveled to Cambodia for the dedication and to officially turn the school over to the country's Ministry of Education.
In 2017 and 2021, the firm asked attorneys, staff, clients, and friends of the firm to send holiday messages and words of encouragement to the students of the school. Each message generated a donation to the school. To view the messages click here: Holiday Card 2017 | Holiday Card 2021
The firm provided funds for the children to have their very first art lessons and for four years, we proudly featured the children's artwork in our firm holiday card. To see their creative masterpieces, please click the links below.
Holiday Card 2016
Holiday Card 2015
Holiday Card 2014
Holiday Card 2013
Positive press has surrounded the opening of the school, including coverage by The National Law Journal in January 2013 and an interview of Kay Wolf by Super Lawyers for their July 2014 edition of Florida Super Lawyers. For more information on the firm's involvement, please visit:
If you'd like to learn more about the World Assistance for Cambodia Rural Schools Project, go to http://www.cambodiaschools.com/our-programs/rural-schools-program/.