Jordan's generosity in memory of Mike – for Cambodian Kids
September 2006
When I returned from my first trip to Cambodia and Sunrise, I set a goal to raise the $20 K USD needed to build one cottage in the new orphanage planned for the south of Cambodia – to be dedicated in the memorry of my dear friend Mike Matsushita who was killed in the London Bombings in July 2005.
Mike was a tour guide in Indochina for Intrepid Travel, and when he was tragically killed – I set up a memorial website and helped to raise over $30K which was matched dollar for dollar by Intrepid. That $60K was distributed to 5 charities in Indochina – Sunrise Children’s Village in Cambodia was one of them.
I am happy to announce that ONE AMAZING individual stepped forward and offered the full amount – and now we have our cottage for Mike.
Jordan Swartz was on one of Mike’s tours through Cambodia. He was also touched and inspired by Geraldine and the sunrise kids – and also the tragedy that took our Mike.
Jordan, from Toronto Canada, flew to Sydney to join us at the Fundraising Gala Dinner for Sunrise – and before stepping through the doors of the function centre – told me that he wanted to donate the full $20 K USD ( $25,500 AUD)
Sue, Geraldine and Jordan at Sunrise’s Gala Dinner held in Sydney in October 2006
Jordan said: " Helping Sunrise was something I knew that I would do from the moment I visited the orphanage. Visiting Cambodia with Mike as my guide was an experience that changed my view of the world. I’m just grateful to be able to do something that can make a difference in the lives of children who had such a difficult start in life."
So Mike’s Mates – Thanks to Jordan, I am so proud to tell you that we will have our cottage for Mike. That cottage will house 12 children and a carer in Sianoukville.
Jordan and his family have taken inspiration for helping others into action and have now started their own charitable venture to help a family in Kenya.
