About Us

The Lydia Project

Founded in 2009 in response to the needs of a small Orphanage near Battambang, Cambodia (still recovering from the Killing Fields era), Co-Founders Bob Petrik and Rob Corley were visiting a “business as mission” project when they were introduced to the orphanage leader by a still unknown man named David. The leader told of 28 children, hungry because the funding partner of the home had died and left no money or instructions. Food was provided for the children that very day. The Petrik’s and Corley’s upon returning home established the Lydia Project to provide for the children.

With the assistance and sacrificial regular giving of now more than 80 families, those children and over 170 more who have followed have been provided a home, nutrition, care, and education. Today the Sunrise House Children’s Home… a University House for college students… Jesus School, an elementary school in a village adjacent to the city dump, and countless children in after school programs in villages across the country are cared for by Lydia Project. Plus, the Melody House widow’s home as well as our pastor led widow’s ministry cares for more than 100 women… Grace Fields, a trafficking rescue and restoration center… the School of Discipleship, a pastoral training program with over 85 students in training… and a network of churches and pastors across the country, round out our ministry projects.

We thank each of our partners, and welcome those who are interested to reach out, learn more and hopefully come alongside as we care for these wonderful friends.

Caring for the people of
Cambodia is our Passion

Board of Directors and Advisory Board

Our all-volunteer Leadership in the US includes Rob and Stephanie Corley, along with three additional board members, Lauren Heidler, Caleb Santos and Jerry Roetcisoender. Rob Serves as Chairman and President, caring for the day-to-day activities of the ministry finances and communication. In Cambodia, we have an Advisory Board that includes Pastor Lav Houen and Pastor Dr. Meng Aun Hour, Both survivors of the Killing Fields and long serving pastors and leaders in Phnom Penh. In addition, Pastor Meng’s wife, Rady Chan Hour serves on the Advisory Board, assisting with Children’s and Women’s Ministries.