Welcome to the Mad Monkey Hostels’ Community Impact report for the first half of 2024! We’re thrilled to share the incredible difference we’ve made together through our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. From supporting local schools to participating in global campaigns, our commitment to giving back is stronger than ever. Let’s dive into the highlights from January to June 2024.
Contents
Global Contributions
World Water Day Campaign
Our World Water Day campaign last March was a global success, raising $1,725.09 distributed among 5 charities across Cambodia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Laos, and Thailand. This initiative underscores our commitment to addressing the world’s water crisis and making a tangible impact on global communities. By allocating these funds to different water-related charities, we aim to improve access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene in underserved areas. Clean water is a fundamental human right, and our efforts are focused on ensuring more people have access to this vital resource.
World Oceans Day Celebration
In celebration of World Oceans Day, four of our beach hostels—Nacpan Beach, Siargao, Panglao, and Koh Rong—organized beach clean-ups and educational workshops. These activities helped maintain the beauty of our beaches and raised awareness about ocean conservation. By involving both locals and tourists, we fostered a sense of shared responsibility and community engagement toward preserving our oceans.
Mad Monkey Panglao Beach Clean-up on World Oceans Day. Photo courtesy of Mad Monkey Hostels.
Local Heroes in Southeast Asia
Supporting Water Wells in CambodiaThrough the sale of raffle tickets, we raised approximately $158, which will be added to the donations from our World Water Day campaign. These funds are directed towards supporting the Cambodian Buddhist Association for Vulnerable Children (CBAVC) water well projects. Access to clean water is a critical issue in many Cambodian communities, and these wells provide essential resources for drinking, cooking, and sanitation. By supporting these projects, we help ensure that children and their families have reliable access to safe and clean water, improving their overall health and quality of life.
The Mad Monkey Siem Reap team turning over donations to CBAVC. Photo Courtesy of Mad Monkey Hostels.
Enhancing Healthcare & Education in Laos: Located in Nathong Village in Vang Vieng, the SAE Lao Project focuses on sustainable development and education. Our Vang Vieng hostel’s contribution of $326.14 supports their various educational activities, including English lessons, IT classes, a library, adult skills training, and sustainability presentations. These initiatives empower the local community by providing them with the knowledge and skills needed to improve their quality of life and promote sustainable practices.
Meanwhile in Luang Prabang, our donation of $61.37 supports Friends Without A Border Hospital in Luang Prabang. By funding healthcare services, we contribute to improving the health and well-being of children who lack access to essential medical care. This support is crucial for ensuring that these children can lead healthier, happier lives.
Philippines: Supporting Young Athletes and Students
Mad Monkey Siargao: In Siargao, we raised funds through Charity Bingo and an anniversary boat party to support the athletes of Catangnan Elementary School, preparing them for the 2024 CARAGA Regional Athletic Meet. We provided essential items such as bedrolls, tumblers, and pillows, ensuring these young athletes had the necessary resources for their training camp. This support not only aids their physical preparation but also boosts their morale, showing them that the community is behind them.
Principal Joselito Tiu and the Mad Monkey Siargao team. Photo courtesy of Mad Monkey Hostels.
Mad Monkey Nacpan Beach: After discovering that 50 local children were missing meals daily, we took immediate action. Our team, including General Manager Kurt, Resident Operations Manager Craig Holmes, and Regional Marketing Manager Michelle Mendoza, contributed a printer and a large cooking pot to the local school. These resources help the school provide meals and support educational activities, ensuring that children receive the nourishment and education they need to thrive.
GM Kurt, ROM Craig, and RMM Michelle at Calitang Elementary School. Photo courtesy of Mad Monkey Hostels.
Mad Monkey Siquijor: On the charming island of Siquijor, we donated two large fans to Tignao Elementary School, providing much-needed relief during the hot season. Additionally, we provided snacks and juices for kindergarten and first-grade students, enhancing their school experience and showing our commitment to their well-being. These small but impactful gestures create a more comfortable and supportive learning environment for the youngest learners.
REM Dean at Tignao Elementary School. Photo courtesy of Mad Monkey Hostels.
Mad Monkey Panglao: We donated a wall fan to Danao Elementary School, significantly improving the learning environment for students during warm days. The principal and students expressed their sincere appreciation, highlighting the positive impact of this simple yet meaningful contribution. It is moments like these that remind us of the power of giving and the difference it can make in people’s lives.
Mad Monkey Panglao team with their fan donations. Photo courtesy of Mad Monkey Hostels.
Special Events and Milestones
Pride Cambodia Event
The Mad Monkey Phnom Penh at the Pride Cambodia 2024 Event. Photo courtesy of Mad Monkey Hostels.
In June, we raised $1,000 for the Pride Cambodia Organization, celebrating diversity and supporting the LGBTQ+ community in Cambodia. This event not only raised funds but also fostered a sense of inclusion and acceptance, reinforcing our commitment to creating safe and welcoming spaces for everyone. By supporting Pride Cambodia, we help promote LGBTQ+ rights and advocate for equality and respect within the community.
Sihanoukville Marathon
Mad Monkey founders & the Phnom Penh team. Photo courtesy of Mad Monkey Hostels.
Our team members from Cambodia and Vietnam participated in the 9th Sihanoukville International Half Marathon. The theme this year, “Run for the protection of nature, saving our globe and the well-being of humankind,” resonated deeply with our values. Participating in this marathon showcased our dedication to promoting wellness and environmental responsibility. By engaging in such events, we encourage a healthy lifestyle and reinforce our commitment to protecting the environment.
Ironman 70.3 Cebu for Rabbit School Cambodia
Donation turnover to the Rabbit School Cambodia. Photo courtesy of Mad Monkey Hostels.
Our co-founders Alex and Tom participated in the Ironman 70.3 in Cebu, raising $2,200 for The Rabbit School in Phnom Penh. This school provides vital education and support for underprivileged children with learning disabilities. The funds raised will be used to renovate a new classroom, enhancing the school’s ability to support more children. This expansion is crucial for fostering an educational environment where students with learning disabilities can excel and embrace their potential.
Dream School Project – Ha Giang Province, Vietnam
Groundbreaking Ceremony of the Dream School Project. Photo courtesy of Mad Monkey Hostels.
We celebrated Children’s Day on June 1st by participating in the groundbreaking ceremony for three new classrooms at Minh Thang Primary School. This project aims to improve educational facilities for one of the poorest schools in Bac Quang district. During the ceremony, we also gave gifts to poor and disabled students, reinforcing our commitment to supporting vulnerable communities. The project is expected to be completed by the new school year, providing a better learning environment for the children of Ha Giang.
Ongoing Initiatives and Partnerships
Pink Tuesday (Mad Monkey Hanoi): We have partnered with the Breast Cancer Network Vietnam, showing our support for breast cancer awareness and research. This partnership aims to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer patients, providing them with the necessary support and resources to fight the disease.
Chili House (Mad Monkey Gili T): Through our Culture Clash charity event last June, we contributed $745 (Rp 12,000,000) to repairing the school and playground of the Chili Community House. This donation will help ensure a better learning and playing environment for children. This initiative highlights our dedication to creating positive impacts in the communities we operate in, enhancing the quality of life for residents.
Team Mad Monkey Gili T donation turnover. Photo courtesy of Mad Monkey Hostels.
Fundraising Successes
Mad Monkey Nacpan Beach: Our Quarter 2 CSR event raised PHP 134,450, thanks to raffle ticket sales and generous donations. These funds will significantly benefit Calitang Elementary School, providing them with the resources needed to improve their educational facilities and support their students.
Mad Monkey Nacpan Beach Sports Fest. Photo courtesy of Mad Monkey Hostels.
Mad Monkey Siquijor: Our dance-a-thon and continued fundraising efforts have provided essential school supplies and support to Tignao Elementary School. These initiatives ensure that students have the materials they need for their education, promoting a positive and conducive learning environment.
Dance-a-thon Charity event at Mad Monkey Siquijor. Photo courtesy of Mad Monkey Hostels.
Conclusion
The first half of 2024 has been a testament to our dedication to community impact and CSR. We are proud of our achievements and grateful for the support from our community and partners. Together, we’re building brighter futures and stronger communities across Southeast Asia. Stay tuned for more updates and join us in making a difference!
