Volunteer in Kathmandu

  Nepal

• Kathmandu: 
Kathmandu

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks, 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks and 3-6 months
Typical Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks
Dates: please inquire for a specific date

Description: Adoptionsforever is a Pennsylvania licensed 501 c3 International Adoption and Humanitarian Aid Organization. We are accredited to place children throughout the entire United States and with American families living abroad. We have expanded our charter to help people make an active contribution to Nepal through experiential education.

Nepal is a landlocked country located between the Tibetan region of China and India nestled in the midst of the majestic Himalayas. It is home to eight of the 10 highest peaks including Mt Everest, the tallest mountain in the world.
Nepal, the birthplace of Buddha is blessed with one of the richest cultures in the world which is greatly influenced and manifested by the diverse social customs and festivals, by its music, architecture, religion and literature. Hundreds of famous temples are located in and around the Katmandu Valley.

Nepal is the only official Hindu kingdom in the world. It is quite easy to get by with English in Nepal, especially in the Katmandu valley and in Pokhara. The Nepali language is said to be quite easy to pick up however if you come away with no other words or phrases, remember the word "Namaste". It is used to mean "Hello" to "How are you?" Properly used it should be accompanied with the hands held in a prayer like position, the Nepali gesture equivalent of the western handshake.

The Nepali's are known to be hospitable, warm, affectionate hosts and that is one of the reasons volunteers, interns and students of all ages and levels from all over the globe return to visit and to contribute to Nepal, one of the poorest countries on earth. By participating in any one of our programs, you are not just a cog in a wheel but part of the machinery that will eventually lift Nepal into the 21st century.

We offer a number of different exciting programs for volunteers/interns and you are welcome to join more than one during your stay. An open heart and a willingness to learn is all that we require. It is our hope that you return to your native country a more enlightened person who has made a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Orphanage
You will have the opportunity to live in and/or work at an orphanage that cares for babies, toddlers, and children. You will aid in daily activities and can live, work, and eat alongside the caretakers. We encourage you to share any special talents/interests you have with the children.

Teaching English
There is a chronic shortage of English teachers in many developing countries. Our volunteers spend time teaching children and adults of all ages and levels to read, write and speak conversational English. They also assist local teachers with lesson plans and teaching materials. There is a lot of creative freedom with your lessons.

Teachers
We need teachers to work with students at all ages, levels and subjects. This includes the sciences, math, social studies, health/sex education, music, art, dance, photography, journalism, etc. We will find a place for you according to your interest and expertise. You would have the freedom to develop your own lesson plans.

Health Post
Doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals are needed at hospitals, clinics, schools, treating local people with common health problems. You may also be asked to give seminars at schools to teach children about basic healthcare, sanitation and nutrition awareness. If you have any experience in a particular medical field, we will assign you accordingly. It would be very helpful if you bring donated medical supplies. Volunteers must be studying or practicing in the healthcare field.

Construction
We are looking for volunteers for construction and maintenance projects in Katmandu and outlying areas. Plastering, plumbing, gardening, constructing playgrounds, repairing and painting classrooms, homes, community centers, medical clinics and organic farming are just a few of the activities that may be available. Volunteers with no prior construction experience are also invited to join this program!

Cultural Exchange
You will live with a family in Katmandu or a small rural village in this particularly unique experience. At least one member of the family will speak English. You would follow the daily routine and rhythm of the family and learn about their lifestyle, language, food and people - You can spend the day visiting the local village and school and exploring the local area. Our goals are to immerse you with the communities that you are visiting, and to provide a cultural exchange between you and the local people.

Conservation
This will take place at the wildlife parks in Chitwan and other environmental/eco projects in the forest and the hillside. You will work with local clubs and community leaders. Hands-on service activities offer opportunities to learn about the environment while you protect and preserve it for future generations.

Highlights:
- Room and board included in fees
- Transportation to and from airport
- 24/7 support
- In-country orientation
- Assistance with personal travel itineraries
- Sightseeing
- Cultural immersion with Nepali family

Qualifications: Program Requirements
We require that all program participants be at least 18 years old and do not suffer from any major medical problems. You set the agenda. There are no educational requirements, except for the health post program. This program is open to worldwide participants of all ages and skill levels. Volunteer programs can start on any day of the week with exception of Saturday. You are asked to volunteer for at least one week however, a longer stay would help to provide continuity to the people you serve. In addition, you would get a chance to immerse yourself in a culture.

Salary / Pay: We can place couples in the same or different location, depending on preferences.

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: Most of our volunteers are 18 and above but we accept families with younger teens if supervised by the parents. Most of our volunteers stay between 1-3 months with some staying 2 weeks and other 5 months.

Age Range: 18 and above unless traveling as a family

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Nepal Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Online Application plus Application Assessment
• Resume

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network
• Exit Debriefing Abroad

Adoptions Forever's Mission Statement: Adoptions Forever is a Pennsylvania licensed 501 c3 International Adoption and Humanitarian Aid Organization. We are accredited to place children throughout the entire United States and with American families living abroad. We have expanded our charter to help people make an active contribution to Nepal, India and other countries. We support education through our study abroad and internership programs. You can volunteer helping a sick or orphaned child, teach and develop an English language program or any other subject of your choosing. Programs are extremely affordable. Through experiential education participants learn about themselves as well as the world around them in an idyllic setting in developing countries. It will be an exciting and a personal and inspiring experience.

Year Founded: 2002