Gala

of MAY 4, 2024

of MAY 4, 2024
Welcome to Caring for Cambodia's Gala of Hope! Tonight, we come together with hearts full of optimism and determination to educate a new generation of Cambodian children and advance educational opportunities in Cambodia. Your presence here nurtures our collective vision of creating brighter futures for Cambodian students, teachers, and communities.
With your generous support, we're unlocking pathways to opportunity. Together, we're building a network of global connections to empower Cambodian communities and inspire futures. Your contribution isn't a simple donation—it's a catalyst for change, paving the way forward for generations to come by and for the Cambodian people.
Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey. Tonight, as we celebrate the power of education to transform lives, let's continue to shine brightly, lighting the path towards a future where everyone can soar.
In Appreciation,
Amy Westby Executive Director, Caring for CambodiaCocktail Reception
Doors Open at 6:30PM
Welcome
Emcee, Sophaline Mao
Blessing Dance
Khmer Youth of Modesto
Personal Message
CFC Board Chairman, Hong Choing
Rice Harvesting Dance
Khmer Youth of Modesto
Dinner Service and CFC Message
CFC Board Director, Jamie Amelio and Executive Director, Amy Westby
Live Auction
Fund-A-Need
Managing Director of APJ, Rebecca Large
Silent Auction Closes
Musical Performance
Emmy Award winner and Cambodian-American, Jay Chan
Caring for Cambodia, founded by Jamie Amelio, has dedicated itself to transforming the lives of Cambodian children since its inception in 2003. What started as a single school in Siem Reap has grown into a network of 21 schools, educating over 7,000 students yearly and aiming to brighten countless more futures. Through innovative programs like "Removing Barriers" and "Food for Thought," CFC ensures that every child has access to education and nourishment, while comprehensive teacher training initiatives empower educators to drive educational change nationwide. Recognized for its impact, CFC stands as a beacon of hope, embodying a vision for a brighter, more equitable future for Cambodia and beyond.
Impact Numbers:
• 7,000 students educated each year
• 2.8 million meals served each year
• 3,000+ bicycles distributed to students
• 20,000 toothbrushes distributed each year
• 300+ teachers & staff members professionally trained
• 109 water wells & 10 water filtration systems installed in rural villages
• 81% of CFC teachers have completed or are obtaining university degrees
For more information, please visit: www.caringforcambodia.org
Sophaline (Sophie) Mao, a 1.5 Cambodian-American born in a ref ugee camp, brings a multifaceted perspective to the board of Caring for Cambodia. Growing up in Stockton, California, a hub for Cambodian resettlement, she is deeply connected to her roots and actively engaged with the Cambodian-American community. With dual Master's degrees and a Bachelor’s degree from universities in San Francisco, Sophie combines academic prowess with a passion for empowering others. Her blend of academic achievement, cultural immersion, and professional dedication embodies leadership that drives CFC towards greater success and positive impact.
A native of Cambodia and a survivor of the Khmer Rouge re gime, Hong Choing considers himself fortunate to have been given the opportunity to start anew in the United States. He firmly believes in the transformative power of education. Caring for Cambodia’s mission holds a special place in his heart, as he stands as an example of the children currently benefiting from CFC's support. Together with his wife Tinara, he is dedicated to making a meaningful contribution to the world. Hong currently holds the position of Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Alliances at Oracle Corporation, bringing over 25 years of experience as a seasoned business and technology executive working with multinational companies globally. Serving as Chairman of the Board of Directors, Hong plays a pivotal role in driving CFC’s ongoing success.
Jay Chan, born Chanthoeun Pen in a refugee camp, found so lace in his mother’s music, particularly the iconic Sinn Sisamouth, after his father disappeared during Cambodia’s genocide. Reuniting with his father in 2009 fueled Jay’s passion for music, blending Cambodian melodies with 90s R&B. Despite challenges growing up in 90s America, music became Jay’s lifeline. Now a dedicated artist, he aims to unite Cambodian heritage with R&B rhythms. In 2023, Jay received an Emmy Award for Outstanding Musical Composition Arrangement for “Legends Unite for Sr. Jude,” collaborating with Stevie Wonder, Skip Martin, AZYet, and others to benefit St. Jude Hospital.
Richard D. Pio Roda brings over 30 years of auctioneer ing expertise to global fundraising initiatives, including events for Tokyo English Life Line and the International Ocean Film Festival. As a partner at Redwood Public Law Group, he provides legal counsel on contracts, technology procurement, and governance to entities throughout California. Richard’s commitment to public service is demonstrated through his tenure as a Commissioner on the City and County of San Francisco Human Rights Commission and his chairmanship at the Justin Siena High School Foundation. Currently, he serves as the City Attorney of San Leandro, California (sanleandro.org).
Thank you to our sponsors and donors for their tremendous support!
Angkor Wat Title Sponsor
Hong and Tina Choing
Bayon Sponsor
Peter Sheren
Ta Prohm Sponsor
Jean King
Mony Nop Real Estate Inc.
Oracle Corporation
Banteay Srey Sponsor
$25,000
$10,000
$5,000
$2,500
Jenny Chea-Vaing & Jonathan Vaing Financial Planning
Edna and John Cooper
Hue Huynh
Nancy Keo
Liz and Matt King
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our generous donors for their invaluable contributions, which play a vital role in our mission's success.
⦁ Minh Cannon
⦁ Hong and Tinara Choing
⦁ Andy and Suzanne Fenselau
⦁ Chris and Lorelei Fernandez
⦁ Sokunthea Fite
⦁ Ben and Amy Flock
⦁ Maria Greenwood
⦁ Hue Huynh
⦁ John Joh
⦁ Jean and Eric Kondo
⦁ Mony Nop and Sophaline Mao
⦁ Phillipe Oliveros
⦁ Michael Reynolds
⦁ Rely Pio Roda
⦁ Jenny Chea-Vaing and Jonathan Vaing
⦁ Young Ridge Winery
We sincerely thank the Caring for Cambodia Board, Executive Leadership Team, and Gala Committee for their unwavering dedication and tireless efforts in making our initiatives a resounding success.
Hong Choing, Board Chairman
Andy Fenselau, Vice-Chairman
Peter Sheren, Treasurer
Nina Golder, Secretary
Jamie Amelio, Founder
Cuong Do
Elizabeth King
Sophaline Mao
Mony Nop
Jenny Chea-Vaing
Hong Choing
Tina Choing
Nick Fenselau
Andy Fenselau
Sokunthea Fite
Amy Westby, Executive Director
Rebecca Large, Managing Director of APJ
Ung Savy, Superintendent of Schools and Country Director, Cambodia
Laurie Phillips, Finance Director
Tracy Dowell, Donor Relations Manager
Hue Huynh
Linda Lim
Sophaline Mao
Mony Nop
Jonathan Vaing
1. California | Chino: Sabaidee Festival 2024
2. California | Livermore: Helicopter Ride With Sheriff's Office
3. California | Hayward: Stonebrae Country Club Tennis Package
4. California | Santa Cruz: Boulder Creek Cabin Getaway
5. California | Hayward: Stonebrae Country Club Golf Package + Autographed Photograph of Draymond Green
6. Garden of Desire Jewelry
7. Powerup Financial Solutions Tax Service
8. California | San Mateo: Weekend at the Crowne Plaza
9. Canvas & Cork: A Wine-Inspired Painting Experience
10. California | San Jose: Dinner and Wine Pairing for 4 at Angkor Chef
11. William F.M. Kay Art Collection
12. California | Sonoma County: Wine Tasting, Dinner and Golf
Indulge in a luxurious escape to the stunning Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach Resort in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Step into the world of unforgettable moments at Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach Golf & Spa Resort offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Accommodation: Enjoy a 5 days/4-night stay in a luxurious one bedroom executive suite (sleeps up to four people with a sleeper sofa) with a full kitchen, a living room, and a private jacuzzi. overlooking the ocean. This exclusive auction package offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in one of Mexico's most sought-after destinations (https://www.pueblobonito.com/m/resorts/ sunset-beach)
Valid through 2025, subject to mutual agreement on trip dates. All inclusive meals are purchased separately at a discount. Please email Jean Kondo at jeankondo@yahoo.com to make your reservation. Generously donated by Jean and Eric Kondo.
Indulge in a culinary journey for the senses with this exclusive dinner experience for ten, featuring a curated menu of authentic Khmer cuisine paired with exquisite wines. Hosted by Chef Channy at her restaurant, Angkor Chef (angkorchef. com), you and your guests will be treated to a multi-course feast showcasing the rich flavors and unique spices of Cambodia. To complement the flavors of the cuisine, each course will be paired with a carefully selected wine, enhancing the dining experience and creating harmonious flavor combinations. From crisp whites to elegant reds, each wine will be chosen to elevate the flavors of the dish and delight your palate.
This dinner is not just a meal; it's an unforgettable gastronomic experience that celebrates the art of Khmer cooking and the joy of sharing great food and wine with friends. Bid now for a chance to treat yourself and your guests to an evening of culinary delight and cultural immersion.
Dinner is valid through April 30, 2025, subject to mutual agreement on dinner date with Angkor Chef.
Enjoy privacy, convenience, and luxury in this upscale gated complex, just steps from shops, restaurants, and beautiful white sand beaches. Walk to the coffee shop in the morning, spend the afternoon at the beach, take an evening stroll to dinner, and end your day under the stars on your private lanai.
Prepare your meals in the oversized gourmet kitchen or while you enjoy the beautiful views from your outdoor kitchen on the covered lanai. Relax by one of the two swimming pools with Spas and keep up your exercise regimen in the well-equipped fitness center. And rest comfortably in spacious bedrooms, featuring designer furniture, plush mattresses, and fine linens.
These are all waiting for you when you are the lucky winner: to Stay for six (6) days, five (5) nights (available March through December) in a two-bedroom/two bath condominium villa penthouse at the private and gated community of the Waikoloa Beach Villas in Waikoloa, Big Island, Hawaii (right across the street from the Queen Shops and the King Shops and in front of the Hilton Waikoloa Hotel and Marriott Hotel and Vacation Club Resort). Sleeps four people comfortably. A no host Invitation to play golf any day during your stay as guests of members at either one of the world-famous Waikoloa Beach, Lakes or Kings courses which are adjacent to the property (27 holes golf course).
Certificate good from date of award till December 31, 2025, subject to availability and mutual arrangements on stay dates with Sponsor. No Cash Value. Non-transferrable, No split days and ABSOLUTELY no extension beyond expiration date. Transportation, airfare, and golf equipment not included. Certificate must be used by December 31, 2025. A condo cleaning fee of $350 will be collected at time of booking.
Please email: halealani20@gmail.com to make your reservation. When available, a short-term stay extension may be allowed for a nominal fee. Generously donated by Waikoloa Beach Rentals.
Experience seven nights and six days of blissful relaxation at WorldMark Isla Mujeres, Cancun. Your stay, valid from August 30 to September 6, 2024, offers luxurious accommodations for up to four guests. Unwind in a spacious suite featuring a comfortable king bed and full sleeper sofa, perfect for ultimate comfort.
Please note: No kitchen facilities available. Transportation not included. Generously donated by Jenny Chea-Vaing & Jonathan Vaing.
Choose between two of Kenya’s premiere safari stays—the Mara Sopa Lodge and the Amboseli Sentrim Lodge. Located in Kenya's iconic Masai Mara, the Mara Sopa Lodge offers an unrivaled experience of the African Serengeti known for its abundance of local lions, rounded-roof luxury tents, and lush green surroundings. With its close proximity to the Masai Mara National Reserve, witness the world-renowned Great Migration firsthand as millions of wildebeest, zebra, and other herbivores pass through the reserve from July to October every year.
The Amboseli Sentrim Lodge is nestled in the heart of Kenya’s world-famous Amboseli National Park. With herds of free roaming African elephants and private views of Mt. Kilimanjaro, this luxurious tented lodge offers comfortable and wellequipped accommodations, ensuring a relaxing and peaceful stay among some of Africa’s most majestic sights. The Amboseli Sentrim Lodge also offers exciting game drives, where you can witness lions, giraffes, zebras, and a myriad of other incredible creatures up close. Whether you're an avid photographer, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking a rejuvenating retreat, visiting either the Mara Sopa or Amboseli Sentrim Lodge will be an unforgettable Kenyan adventure that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Experience includes:
• 5 Night Luxury Tent Lodging at the Mara Sopa Lodge or Amboseli Sentrim Lodge for (2)
• Daily Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner for (2)
• 2 Drives/Tours for (2)
Terms of Use: Your package Redemption Certificate will be emailed to initiate the booking process. Please allow 15 business days after your event to receive your certificate. Reservations must be booked 60 days before travel, and property inventory is subject to availability. Reservations must be booked within 12 months, and travel must be completed within 24 months of notification. Once confirmed, all reservations are final. Packages may not be transferred or resold. All certificates should be handled with care as they are the same as cash and nonrefundable. Blackout dates are the weeks of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
Escape to Cape Canaveral, FL, for an unforgettable week-long getaway, accommodates a total of four. Your private sanctuary boasts a private walkway leading to a secluded beach, where the rhythm of the ocean beckons. Dive into relaxation with two swimming pools and engage in friendly matches on two tennis courts. Just moments away is Cocoa Beach, offering endless opportunities for adventure or basking in the sun.
This 2 bedroom and 2 bath townhouse has a partially covered private courtyard with a private path to the beach. The ground floor has a living room/dining room with a breakfast bar/island adjacent to the kitchen, which features stainless steel appliances. Upstairs the townhouse has two bedrooms with a wooden porch. Washer and dryer included.
Stay certificate is valid through December 31, 2025. Annual exclusion dates: January 1 - March 31. Transportation not included. Generously donated by Hong and Tina Choing.
Iceland is the land of ice and fire, a rugged wilderness of volcanoes, waterfalls and glaciers that feels as if it’s still locked in prehistory. This Nordic island nation is defined by its dramatic landscape with volcanoes, geysers, hot springs and lava fields. Massive glaciers are protected in Vatnajokull and Snafellsjokull national parks. Most of the population lives in the capital, Reykjavik, which runs on geothermal power and is home to the National and Saga museums, tracing Iceland’s Viking history.
Iceland is volcanically and geologically active. The interior consists of a plateau characterized by sand and lava fields, mountains, and glaciers, and many glacial rivers flow to the sea through the lowlands. Iceland is warmed by the Gulf Stream and has a temperate climate, despite a high latitude just outside the Arctic Circle. The high latitude and marine influence keep summers chilly, with most of the archipelago having a tundra climate.
Experience includes:
• 5 Night Stay at a Hilton, Center Hotels, Radisson Blu, or similar in Reykjavik for (2)
• The Golden Circle & Northern Lights Tours: Explore Iceland's most famous landmarks on Golden Circle Direct and search for the Northern Lights for (2)
• The Blue Lagoon: Explore one of 25 wonders of the world where the powers of geothermal seawater create transformational spa journeys for (2)
• The Reykjavik Grand Excursion: You will get the highlights of the history and culture of Reykjavik, Iceland's beautiful capital for (2)
• The tours of Iceland and its majestic surroundings will take place on separate days.
Terms of Use: Your package Redemption Certificate will be emailed to initiate the booking process. Please allow 15 business days after your event to receive your certificate. Reservations must be booked 60 days before travel, and property inventory is subject to availability. Reservations must be booked within 12 months, and travel must be completed within 24 months of notification. Once confirmed, all reservations are final. Packages may not be transferred or resold. All certificates should be handled with care as they are the same as cash and nonrefundable. Blackout dates are the weeks of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
The Metropolitan Opera is a vibrant home for the most creative and talented singers, conductors, composers, musicians, stage directors, designers, visual artists, choreographers, and dancers from around the world. An evening at the Met is a transformative experience. Since the summer of 2006, Peter Gelb has been the Met’s general manager—the 16th in company history. Under his leadership, the Met has elevated its theatrical standards by significantly increasing the number of new productions, staged by the most imaginative directors working in theater and opera, and has launched a series of initiatives to broaden its reach internationally.
Each season, the Met stages more than 200 opera performances in New York. More than 800,000 people attend the performances in the opera house during the season.
Experience includes:
• Orchestra Seating for an Opera of your choice at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York for two
• 2-Night Stay at Sheraton NY Time Square, NY Hilton Midtown or equivalent for two
• Dinner at your choice; Strip House, Dos Caminos, or Atlantic Grill for two
Terms of Use: Your package Redemption Certificate will be emailed to initiate the booking process. Please allow 15 business days after your event to receive your certificate. Reservations must be booked 60 days before travel, and property inventory is subject to availability. Reservations must be booked within 12 months, and travel must be completed within 24 months of notification. Once confirmed, all reservations are final. Packages may not be transferred or resold. All certificates should be handled with care as they are the same as cash and nonrefundable. Blackout dates are the weeks of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Tickets: Tickets will either be available for pick up at the event or will be mailed to the winning bidder, a minimum of a week before the event.
Between July 26 and August 11, 2024, the Olympics will be taking place in Paris, France! From athletics to wrestling, every event will take place in the City of Love. Our experience includes four nights in a four* central hotel in Paris with tickets and hospitality to the event of your choice.* Your hospitality will include tickets, excellent views, casual dining, wine, beer & soft drinks. It will be an incredible event with a captivating atmosphere; events will be taking places insome of the most unlikeliest of places, such as beach volleyball underneath the Eiffel Tower!
Outside of the Olympics there is so much to explore in the city of Paris. Arts and culture, fashion, dining. Soak in the Parisian lifestyle as you walk along the La Seine and stop by a café for a crepe or glass of wine.
Experience includes:
• 4-night stay in a 4 star hotel (Grand Hotel Normandie, Hotel Marceau Bastille or similar)
• 2 hospitality tickets to the event of your choice (will include 2 tickets, excellent views, casual dining, wine, beer & soft drinks)
Restrictions: Voucher is only Valid between July 26 and August 11, 2024. *This Experience excludes tickets for the following events: Swimming, cycling on the cycling track and artistic gymnastics. Bookings are subject to availability. Price is based on two people sharing a room. Flights are NOT included.
Experience the ultimate tropical getaway with a luxurious two-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom condo in Belize, offering breathtaking ocean views and unparalleled comfort, for seven nights and eight days.
This condo boasts spacious and elegantly appointed living spaces, perfect for relaxing and unwinding. Step out onto your private balcony and soak in the beauty of the Caribbean Sea, or take a short stroll to the pristine sandy beaches just moments away.
Inside, you'll find a fully equipped kitchen, ideal for preparing delicious meals with local ingredients, and a comfortable living area where you can unwind after a day of exploring. Each bedroom is a tranquil retreat, featuring plush bedding and en-suite bathrooms for added convenience.
Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Belize offers something for everyone. Explore the vibrant coral reefs with a snorkeling or diving excursion, immerse yourself in the rich culture of the local villages, or simply relax by the pool and enjoy the stunning ocean views. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the beauty and tranquility of Belize in your own private oasis.
Transportation not included. Valid through May 2025, subject to mutually agreed upon dates. Blackout dates are from November 9 - 16. Tips for house cleaners and resort staff are the responsibility of guests. Generously donated by Lorelei and Charlie Fernandez.
Experience the power of Caring for Cambodia’s impact first-hand on a volunteer service trip that includes a private VIP tour of our schools, a chance to participate in one of our Food for Thought breakfast meals, and a personalized service project designed in collaboration with the winner and our in-country team.
Package includes a seven-night stay for two people at the luxurious Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor, one of the landmark historic hotels of the legendary Grand Tour of Indochina. Also included is a performance at the legendary Phare Cambodian Circus, dinner at Siem Reap’s new restaurant hot spot - Tavern Siem Reap, and a guided tour of the amazing Angkor Wat Temple complex.
Subject to availability, expires after 24 months (May 2026). Airfare and ground transportation not included, except where noted. Generously donated by Caring for Cambodia.
Our Fund-A-Need fundraiser allows donors to support vital initiatives in amounts ranging from $25,000 to $300, enabling everyone to contribute. Together, we aim to raise $2.5 million to address urgent challenges in education, focusing on self-sustaining development, community empowerment, and leadership development. Your contributions will help us reinvent education aid and make a lasting impact on students' lives.
Support students from primary to secondary education and beyond, providing essential needs like food and healthcare, along with learning opportunities, to help them thrive in Cambodia's rapidly evolving and interconnected world.
Provide resources and professional development opportunities for educators to learn leadership development and teach through responsive, student-centered methods.
Impact even more students and teachers, empowering communities to become active in advocating for sustainable growth. In line with our commitment to equitable access, a portion of every donation subsidizes the cost of partnership for schools with limited resources.
Support building a model of aid as capital for self-sustaining schools, operated by and for the people of Cambodia in partnership with CFC.
Upon winning, you will receive an invoice tonight where you will specify your preferred method of payment. Caring for Cambodia accepts the following:
• ACH
• Check
• Credit Card
• Venmo Join