Orphanages Nepal

Product Details

By volunteering at an orphanage in Nepal, you have the unique opportunity to make a real contribution to Nepali society, while simultaneously experiencing the rich culture and different aspects of urban and rural life in Nepal, one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

Being a volunteer at an orphanage in Nepal is similar to being a big brother or sister to the children. You can play an important role in their education and development, ensuring that they are well looked after, that they attend their classes, do their homework and by teaching them the life skills that they might otherwise miss out on. By supporting these children, you are giving them the opportunity to grow as individuals and take their rightful place in society.

All placements are very flexible giving you the opportunity to take some time off and explore Nepal and some of the world famous attractions. You could go rafting on the Tibetan border, trekking the Annapurna circuit, maybe Himalayan river kayaking, join the Royal tiger and elephant safari, or try the longest free-fall bungee jump in the world.

Location
There are various placements available in Kathmandu and the surrounding area. The exact location of your placement is finalised during the training where you will visit several potential project sites. Project placement also takes into consideration:

• Your skills and preferences
• The needs and requirements of the orphanages
• Seasonal weather patterns

Please state your preference for urban or rural environments.

Project Life
You will be met at the airport by a representative of your guesthouse and taken back to your accommodation. All volunteers will receive initial training after arriving in Kathmandu. The training is designed to help you settle into Nepal and to ensure you are fully prepared for your volunteer placement: A typical training period is as follows:
Day 1 - 2 The first two days will be spent with other volunteers in the Kathmandu area. Training includes:

• Nepali cultural orientation/general cultural exchange
• The people of Nepal and their caste system
• Basic Nepali language classes
• Language and Skills Activities
• Sightseeing

Days 3 - 7 Based in a rural village, this provides an insight into Nepali village life Training includes language classes, living with local families, eating traditional food, observing village culture and getting a general feel for the lifestyle. During this time, you will also visit several orphanages where you may choose to be based.

Working in an orphanage and with children ensures that no two days are ever alike. You should expect to work approximately 4 - 6 hours per day, for 5 - 6 days per week. The orphanages are very flexible and you can arrange days off to explore the local area.

Your daily task is to support the children and full time staff at the orphanage. This may take various forms; one day you may focus on traditional forms of education such as teaching English, or may look at other forms of education such as personal hygiene. The following day might involve accompanying children to the hospital, or taking them out on a day trip.

The buildings always require maintenance, so you might find a paintbrush in your hand or you could be helping with some basic repairs. And don’t forget that children need to enjoy themselves; we strongly recommend that you learn some children’s games and the lyrics to some nursery rhythms before you go - these are always very popular.

Some of the older children may be ready to move on from the orphanage to look for employment. You can encourage them to develop skills, such as papermaking, sewing or maintenance skills. These skills may be the key to their future and to becoming self-sufficient as adults.

Eligibility and Skills Required

• Minimum age: 18+
• Volunteers need to be independent, enthusiastic and adaptable. No particular skills are required, just a positive, hard-working and open-minded attitude.

Please note that acceptance on this programme is subject to a Criminal Records Bureau check.

Visas and Documentation

• You should apply for a tourist visa for maximum 5 months.
• Please state that your purpose is TOURISM only
• You can obtain your visa from Royal Nepalese Embassies or consulates