I am a former volunteer firefighter with Lake Dillon Fire and Rescue in Summit County, Colorado. As travel is one of my passions, I visited Cambodia in 1997 and fell in love with the people, culture, crafts, food and even the weather! In June of 2001, for my 3rd trip to Cambodia, I saw a fire station in Sihanoukville. On my return I had an idea that maybe I could help, and was able to make contact with the station for a wish list of items the small station would like.

 

In February of 2003, I brought three boxes of station-wear clothing for the station in Sihanoukville, donated by Lake Dillon Fire and Rescue. With lots of patience, media exposure and ongoing generous donations, I have made eleven trips since February 2003, helping fire stations in Sihanoukville, Kampot, Phnom Penh, Battambang, Siem Reap and Ban Lung, Ratanakiri Province. The two biggest gifts are two fire trucks, one to Sihanoukville in April of 2006 and one to Ratanakiri Province in August of 2007.

 

In October of 2005, the Douglas Mendel Cambodian Relief Fund received its’ 501 (c) (3) non profit status. I raise money in a variety of ways, one of which is on this site via the donate page. I also bring back Cambodian crafts, selling at various venues, whereby all proceeds go back in the non profit. All funds raised by donations, fundraising and craft sales help with projects for the Cambodian people. Thank you for your support!