For Corree Sinkwitz, sponsoring a child through Cambodian Children’s Fund (CCF) has been nothing short of life-changing — not just for her sponsored child, Sophon, but also for herself.
An entrepreneur based in Southern California, Corree has always been driven by purpose, love, and the desire to uplift those often overlooked. When a friend introduced her to CCF, an intrigued Corree wanted to know more.
The authenticity, the impact, and the humanity of what CCF does captured my heart.
When the friend later invited her to join a visit to Cambodia, she never imagined the depth of connection she’d find within the Steung Meanchey community in Phnom Penh, where CCF works.
“Walking through the community, meeting the children and families, and seeing the programs in action brought everything to life,” says Corree, who believes deeply in the power of community.
“The authenticity, the impact, and the humanity of what CCF does captured my heart.”
During that first visit in 2023, Corree was introduced to a young girl named Sophon. The bond was instant. When she learned that Sophon needed a sponsor, Corree didn’t hesitate.
Witnessing the magic of CCF firsthand left a lasting impression on Kelley — just as it did on me.
Corree was inspired to share her sponsorship journey with others — just as a friend had once done for her.
When she returned to CCF a year later, she brought along her friend Kelley. That visit would prove life-changing for Kelley as well. She became a sponsor herself,
“Witnessing the magic of CCF firsthand left a lasting impression on Kelley — just as it did on me during my first visit,” says Corree. “She immediately fell in love with the mission, the people, and the incredible energy that surrounds the Steung Meanchey community.”
Kelley says: "The trip to CCF was truly life-changing. Seeing firsthand the love, joy, and opportunities being created for the children was powerful. It’s one thing to hear about the work being done, but to walk the grounds, meet the staff, and see the smiles of the kids—it really moved me. It gave me a deep appreciation for the incredible impact of CCF and solidified in my heart how meaningful sponsorship truly is."
Kelley also sponsored a girl.
“Over time, I had shared with Kelley many of the emails, photos, and stories from my sponsorship experience, and I think it helped her understand how truly special and personal the connection is,” says Corree.
“The young girl Kelley now sponsors is actually one of Sophon’s friends - which makes it all the more meaningful. Now we both walk this journey side-by-side, not only as sponsors and friends, but as women invested in the future of two beautiful young women who happen to share a friendship of their own.”
Sponsoring a child felt like a natural extension of who I am and what I value
Kelley finds the experience of being a sponsor just as meaningful as Corree.
“Corree introduced me to the program, and after visiting, it was impossible not to want to be a part of it,” says Kelley. “I’ve always believed in pouring into others, especially children, and I knew right away that this was an opportunity to make a real difference in someone’s life. Sponsoring a child felt like a natural extension of who I am and what I value.”
“Reading her story, seeing her photos, and receiving updates has made me feel connected to her in a very real way. Even though we haven’t met in person yet, I already feel invested in her future and her journey. It’s a blessing to be able to support her education and overall well-being, and I already look forward to watching her grow over the years."
Sponsorship has given Corree the connection that she wanted.
“Donating makes a difference, but sponsorship creates a bond. I didn’t just want to give; I wanted to connect,” she says.
“Sponsorship through CCF is about more than financial support—it’s about presence, love, and consistency. It’s about letting a child know that someone, somewhere in the world, truly sees them and believes in them.
“That kind of connection is transformational - for both of you. It’s certainly transformed me in ways I never expected.”
The connection with Sophon was sparked from the moment they met.
“She immediately captured my heart,” says Corree.
“There was something about her spirit - so bright, kind, resilient, and full of love. I knew in that moment that I wanted to walk this journey with her. She’s an extraordinary girl, and being her sponsor has been one of the greatest gifts of my life.”
Today, Corree describes Sophon, now aged 12, as family — a younger sister, a friend, and someone she loves “as if she were my own child.” Through regular updates, drawings, video calls, and emails, their special bond has only deepened.
“I will always be in her corner, cheering her on, encouraging her dreams, and offering support however I can,” says Corree.
“I want her to know that she will always have someone who believes in her wholeheartedly. She is truly part of my heart, and I will always be here for her, no matter what.”
CCF is more than an organization - it’s a movement of love. When you sponsor a child, you become part of that. I can’t think of anything more worthwhile
Corree’s passion for CCF is contagious.
“Do it. It will change your life,” says Corree to anyone considering sponsorship. “Sponsoring a child isn’t just about giving - it’s about receiving. You’ll gain perspective, purpose, and a bond that transcends distance. CCF is more than an organization - it’s a movement of love. When you sponsor a child, you become part of that. I can’t think of anything more worthwhile.”
She’s already promised Sophon that she’ll return for another visit in 2026 - a promise she fully intends to keep.
“Being in Cambodia, surrounded by the warmth, strength, and spirit of the [Steung Meanchey] community, fills me with a sense of peace and purpose that’s hard to describe,” says Corree, who loves to travel and keep active outside of her work and philanthropy.
“CCF and Cambodia have come to feel like a second home to me. I’ve left a piece of my heart there.”
