In 2014, a group of friends set off on their first backpacking trip through Asia. We traveled with a purpose: to explore new places and meet the people who live there.

Of all the places we visited, Siem Reap, Cambodia stood out. It is one of the poorest nations in the region, yet that never stopped its people from being welcoming, generous and kind. While we were there, we saw the conditions so many children were living in, and we kept asking ourselves the same question: how can we help?

One of us stayed behind a little longer and was fortunate enough to hear about Mr. Leng and his inspiring work helping children through art. With what little money he had, he brought the children candy and toys.

When he shared that story with the rest of us, it inspired us to do more. On the next trip, one of our members gathered friends together and asked them to donate, so we could return to Cambodia and help. Together we brought rice, noodles, cooking oil, hygiene supplies and school supplies for 30 children.

That experience moved all of us. It showed us how much a small group of friends can do, and it inspired us to keep going, not only in Cambodia but in countries around the world.