Issue 1 2012 > Charity in Motion: Crown’s Work in Cambodia
Interactive Version | 
Email | 
Print | 
Download
Charity in Motion: Crown’s Work in Cambodia
The English version of the Phnom Penh Post is a popular independent newspaper in Cambodia. This reputable newspaper is one of the oldest of its kind in Southeast Asia, providing full local news coverage. In their 4th of July edition, Crown's Founder and Chairman Jim Thompson, was featured in an interview where he spoke about the founding history of Crown and how his entrepreneurial spirit helped grow the company into the global organization it is today.
The article highlighted Jim's belief in corporate social responsibility (CSR). Crown has a strong commitment to help a variety of social causes. Crown integrates programs such as "Charity in Motion" and "Destination Green" into the company's operational philosophy. The company has been a strong and consistent contributor to various educational projects including constructions of schools and libraries in Cambodia. The Phnom Penh Post's article placed emphasis on the educational projects that Jim has continuously contributed to since his first visit to Cambodia in 2007. To date, Jim and Crown Cambodia staff have participated in many CSR-related activities and donated money to help further the causes. The donations have ranged from $US34,000 for a school in Kampong, to $US120,000 for the Want San Sam Kosal School. Most recently, Jim donated $US52,000 to help construct the Hazel Joyce Library, named after Jim's sister who has done a great deal of charitable work in her life. Located in the remote Pursat province of Cambodia, the library houses both English and Khmer books and also offers study areas. The library was completed at the end of October 2011.
According to Jim in the Phnom Penh Post article, "Giving away is one of the things that's really rewarding. There are so many needs in the world, it's overwhelming—but when you begin to focus, you can really do something of lasting value for people."