Nepal Volunteers Council: Volunteering Program in Nepal

My first trip to Nepal was in 2011, with hopes of trekking in the Himalayas, and doing a couple weeks of volunteer work. After and extensive online search for an organization, I finally came across NVC (Nepal Volunteers Council) they were exactly what I was looking for, a small, affordable, locally run organization that had programs that made a big impact on the people they worked with. Upon nervously arriving at the airport in Kathmandu I was warmly greeted with the smiling faces of Keshab, Manoj, and Mahesh, the three men that run NVC. I lived with a host family that made me feel right at home. There is no better way to experience a country and its culture, than living with a local family, off the beaten tourist path. I worked at a small orphanage that housed 10 boys that I instantly connected with and I cherish every minute I spend with them, watching them learn and grow. That first trip was such a positive experience that I returned twice more to work with those 10 boys, as well as work in the small primary school operated by NVC. These projects are having such a positive impact on the children that are involved, and as a volunteer for NVC, my own life and goals have been transformed in the most positive way I can imagine. I am currently planning my fourth trip back to work with NVC and can only hope that more people can have the experience of working with this fantastic, trustworthy, and fun organization. NVC is a great group to work with if you feel like you want to help make a positive difference, and experience Nepal in a way most travellers don't.

I volunteered in the spring of 2012 following the completion of my 3rd year at UBC. My stay with Keshab and his amazing organization lasted for 5 weeks. I was mainly volunteering in a local school but also spent a short amount of time in Samaj Hospital to get some insight into what healthcare in Nepal is like. I cannot say enough good things about this organization. Their cause is a just one and they are undoubtedly some of the nicest altruistic individuals I have ever met. Keshab the founder quit his high level job as a principle after grappling with the unimaginable inequality that exists in Kathmandu. It feels like a family when you are over there. Every morning I remember him asking me "how was your sleep?" Every evening I remember drinking milk tea (absolutely amazing) and talking about our days.
The people are not the only reason to choose the NVC. Nepal is such an amazing country. You can swim with elephants in Chitwan or take a 100 km hike to Annapurna base camp. The people are welcoming and much of the country is in such dire need of help that your efforts are truly appreciated. Anyways choose the NVC! You wont regret it.