AceUp Smiling Gecko is fundraising
Help Us Transform the Lives of 22 Children through Education
Donate today to help us provide urgent and immediate access to healthcare, nutritious meals, quality education, and a renewed sense of hope to those who need it most.
We’re rallying support to transform the lives of 22 children living in one of Cambodia’s poorest rural regions.
Why Cambodia & Why Smiling Gecko
Cambodia is still healing from the devastating legacy of the Khmer Rouge regime, which wiped out over 2 million people, including most of its educated class, between 1975 and 1979. Today, education remains the most powerful tool to break the cycle of poverty and rebuild a brighter future.
Smiling Gecko, a Swiss-Cambodian nonprofit, is dedicated to long-term, sustainable change in Cambodia. Inspired by the Swiss education system, the organization offers primary schooling, vocational training, healthcare, and nutrition in a safe, supportive environment. Its unique campus model uplifts entire families, not just students.
AceUp is proud to support Smiling Gecko’s work and help expand access to education, dignity, and opportunity for Cambodia’s next generation.
Why Now
Located in one of Cambodia’s most underserved regions, Smiling Gecko’s school already serves 500 children and young adults. In July, they hope to welcome 22 more–but they need our help.
Each child’s full-year support costs $3,900, covering tuition, healthcare, daily meals, and essential care.
Our goal: Raising $85,000 by July 12th, which represents the scholarships of 22 children.
With your support, we can open the doors for 22 new students to begin their journey out of poverty by the end of year.
How You Can Help
- Donate: Every dollar counts. Even $5, the price of a cup of coffee, can make a difference.
- Share: Spread the word. The more visibility this campaign has, the more lives we can impact.
- Learn more about our commitment tiers below for large donors and family offices
Commitment Tiers
Tier 1 | $1,000
- Personal thank-you note from Hannes Schmid (Founder, Smiling Gecko) and Will G. Foussier (Founder, AceUp)
- Access to the AceUp x Smiling Gecko 2030 Global Community—an exclusive network of global philanthropists, artists, and changemakers
- Invitations to fundraising dinners and events (next one: NYC, Summer 2025)
Tier 2 | $3,900
- All Tier 1 benefits
- Sponsor one child’s full year of care
- Receive a personal letter and drawing from the child, plus regular updates
Additional Commitment Tiers upon request
Your Impact
By supporting this campaign, you’re providing:
- Education: Bilingual, high-quality learning in a safe, well-equipped school
- Healthcare & Nutrition: Daily meals and vital medical care
- Safe Spaces: A nurturing environment for creativity, play, and growth
- Family Support: Vocational training for parents, creating community-wide resilience
Click the Donate Now button to be part of this life-changing mission. Together, we can give 22 children the chance to dream, grow, and thrive.
With heartfelt thanks,
Daphné Kobia, Penultimate Year Student, EHL
Will Guillaume Foussier, Co-Founder & CEO, AceUp
Hannes Schmid, Founder, Smiling Gecko
94 supporters
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