Namaste! Welcome to Volunteer in Nepal

Volunteers Initiative Nepal (VIN)!

We are a not-for-profit, non-governmental volunteer organization (NGO) based in Kathmandu, working for marginalized & disadvantaged communities of Nepal. International Volunteering in Nepal is one of the strategies we use to empower rural communities. We have deployed thousands of national and international volunteers in Nepal. The community service volunteer has significantly impacted to achieve our mission.

Our mission is to empower marginalized communities through equitable, inclusive, and holistic development programs.

As one of the responsible community service organizations, our mission is to empower marginalized communities through equitable, inclusive, and holistic development programs. Our volunteer organization welcomes volunteers in Nepal from all over the world to achieve this mission.

Our Approach: We are probably the first volunteering organization offering volunteer opportunities to use a fully holistic approach to community development. We believe education, health & environment, economy, and basic infrastructure are the major pillars of community development. Our community programs support these development pillars. Hence, we focus equally on all four development pillars while implementing our projects. We have designed all our International Volunteering in Nepal projects based on these four pillars of development.

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Our Programmes:

We have developed six major community empowerment programs. Women’s Empowerment, Children’s Development, Youth Empowerment, Public Health & Medical, Environment Conservation and Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR). Our volunteer organization runs over 50 volunteering projects in Nepal under these programs. So whatever service projects you are passionate about, VIN has them all.

Women and Children the nucleus of our development initiatives. We pay special attention to women’s and children’s issues. Furthermore, we bring innovation to volunteer in Nepal programs by conducting research and deploying national and international volunteers. The past and a half-decade of holistic & integrated development approaches have promoted equality, economic well-being, basic human rights, and sustainable development.
All VIN’s developmental, humanitarian, and volunteer programs in Nepal are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). You may get involved with us by volunteering, internship, donating, partnership, sponsoring a child’s education, providing grants, and helping us make a sustainable difference!

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VIN house

Women Empowerment Youth Empowermnet Children's Development Public Health and Medical Care Environment and Conservation Disaster Response and Relief

Volunteers Initiative Nepal (VIN) is on the 2023 Top-Rated Nonprofit list.

2023 top rated Non Profits
people group icon

344,992

People Reached

women group icon

26,610

Women’s Life Impacted

children icon

60,113

Children Benefited

public health icon

1,50,008

People benefited by Public Health & Medical Care

environment icon

62,188

People benefited by Environment Conservation

disaster icon

36,808

People benefited by Disaster Risk Reduction

youth icon

3,265

Youth benefited

VIN PROGRAMS

Youth Empowerment Programme

Join Youth Empowerment Programme to develop the social & professional skills.

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Journalism Program - Volunteers Initiative Nepal

Journalism Program

Work in Photo Journalism, Film and Documentary Making projects.

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Public Interest Programme

Help to make significant changes in Nepal’s challenging landscape.

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volunteer travel

Adventure and Volunteer Program

Participate in natural based activities to enhance lives in unique & positive ways.

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Where we work

We place community service volunteers directly in the community where their activities complement our own efforts. As one of the responsible community service organizations, our overall aim is to empower the local community to make the changes necessary to increase the quality of life for those who call it home.

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nepal map

Become a Volunteer in Nepal

Use your time and skills to empower marginalized communities in Nepal.

HOW VOLUNTEERING WORKS WITH VIN?

Testimonials

LATEST NEWS

women, co-operative group, VIN
08 Aug

Meeting with Women’s Co-operative Executive bodies

On the 21st of July, we had a meeting with women’s co-operative executive bodies of Taluwa Women’s Multi-Purpose Co-operative Limited, Taluwa and Saraswati Women’s Agriculture Co-operative limited, Thulachhap. The goal agenda ...

  • volunteersinitiativenepal
  • Comments: 1
children development program
05 Aug

Child Sponsorship- Material Distribution

On the 16th of July, in the presence of Ward No. 1 Chairperson of Siddhicharan Municipality, Kedar Basnet, we distributed school supplies, sports materials, and school uniforms ...

  • volunteersinitiativenepal
  • Comments: 0

GET INVOLVED TODAY!

Volunteer, Intern, Fundraise, Donate, Sponsor, and Promote

Help us reach our goal to empower the most marginalized communities we work with.

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Affiliations and Partnerships

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Google Reviews

Volunteers Initiative Nepal (VIN)
4.9
Based on 103 reviews
powered by Google
Volunteers Initiative Nepal (VIN)
4.9
Based on 103 reviews
powered by Google
GARIMA THAPA
GARIMA THAPA
09:46 03 Jan 24
Namaste!I'm garima thapa. During my 12 weeks in Vin i did Youth research project, public health research, climate change research, and educating people on stress management and women trafficking.working on this project with international volunteers was a great opportunity and i learned a lot from them and I'd want to thank Vin for allowing me to work on other projects I also feel that working at Vin helped me to become a better speaker and improve my communication skills. I also want to express my gratitude to Sanju DD for all of her help and guidance which allowed me to learn something new every single day. I would like to thank VIN for everything in this regard.
Pramila Maharjan
Pramila Maharjan
06:44 24 Dec 23
My experience at VIN was amazing.I choose VIN for different role within community. I had very good time in Jitpur fedi.We made the beautiful connection with community people's. I love to work together within the international volunteers and local volunteers. Thank you for giving me this great opportunity to deed into the community.
PRAJWOL POUDEL
PRAJWOL POUDEL
14:35 20 Dec 23
Volunteering with VIN has given me lots of new experiences and memories. Working with international volunteers, community people, and VIN staff was wonderful. I did meet some amazing people and made new friends and this volunteering has made me feel like I can make a change to the community of Nepal. I do wish to join back with VIN at some point again..:)
Varsha Pradhan
Varsha Pradhan
10:48 20 Dec 23
Astha Gurung
Astha Gurung
10:43 20 Dec 23
Manita Basnet
Manita Basnet
10:27 20 Dec 23
Richa Ghimire
Richa Ghimire
10:01 20 Dec 23
justine Squire
justine Squire
05:09 11 Dec 23
I’ve had an amazing experience with VIN. From the first emails to prepare to commit to this program, my arrival and induction, the support and check -ins during the volunteering and of course the exit and farewell, all of which I received excellent support and communication.VIN is a wonderful NGO organisation which has been in existence for 18 years and was founded by a local person who grew up in an isolated village in the far east of Nepal, hence, he is really in touch with the needs of his people.I was involved in the Women’s Empowerment Program.I developed a presentation for women in small villages. With a beautiful local girl (my translator), I trekked 20mins - 2 hrs to various villages. We taught leadership and self -care through the use of posters, music, dancing and games.I was also asked to run a more in-depth program with women that were leaders in their communities. We spent 2 days with these women, working on communication, public speaking skills, roles of committee members and meeting protocols. The women in this program noticeably improved in their confidence over the 2 days!As well as being able to contribute to Women and their empowerment, I was enriched personally through being involved in the rich culture of the Nepali people. The other volunteers and I were welcomed into Tihar celebrations - an experience we will never forget.I highly recommend being involved in this program.
Barbara R.
Barbara R.
13:11 10 Nov 23
I would like to recommend this association to anyone who wants to have a volunteer experience in Nepal. You will be followed every step of the way, both in organizing and managing the project. You will meet wonderful people who will introduce you to Nepalese culture! Thank you VIN for this great experience!
Hyari Sharma
Hyari Sharma
17:34 11 Oct 23
Samrachana Devkota
Samrachana Devkota
09:47 06 Oct 23
It was really a good experience to be a part of VIN. All the staffs and volunteers are really very helpful, charming and respectful that made my journey more easier and unforgettable.
Shreejana Ghale
Shreejana Ghale
11:43 09 Aug 23
During my volunteering at Volunteer initiative Nepal (VIN), I had an opportunity to engage on youth research project. Our main goal was to understand the interest of the local youth regarding training programs. Through this experience, i not only learned a great deal about research methodologies but gained the insights of the specific needs and aspiration of youth in the community. It was fullfilling to contribute to this important work.Overall, my time there was enriching and fulfilling, leaving me with lasting memories and sense of contribution. Thankyou so much VIN for giving this amazing opportunity.
Nabina Thapa
Nabina Thapa
08:54 09 Aug 23
I'm glad that I had got chance to work with Volunteers Initiative Nepal .... It's my honor to work with this organization .... Such a good experience I found in this organization while I'm working in this organization ..... I had got a lot of projects opportunity with some international volunteer and it was such a great and good experience......... I had got the chance to worked in youth research and sport project in jitpur fede teenpeple....... I have got chance the some extra project of sexual hygiene classes organized by nabina thapa Shreejana Ghale and kajwol Luplunge .........
San Jeeta
San Jeeta
08:40 09 Aug 23
Overall it was good. I learned a lot of things i didn't know before. I got a chance to meet new people, learn new culture and had better understanding of society and community. Learned more about organisation. Had a chance to work with children's and international volunteers. The experience is really good but organisation didn't provide any means of transportation and internet it was hard to continue our project and Local facilitator was biased, didn't follow the code and ethics and principles a social worker should follow.
Shailendra Bajagai
Shailendra Bajagai
02:10 06 Aug 23
For 9 months, I worked as the District Program Coordinator at VIN (Volunteers Initiative Nepal), stationed at the NaraTika Learning Center in Okhaldhunga. Regrettably, the experience turned out to be rather bitter for me.It was a bitter experience for me as the organization did not fulfill its promise to provide the amount of provident fund (PF) and gratuity as per our agreement. According to the agreement, VIN was supposed to deposit these amounts into the respective accounts after 6 months of employment, but they failed to do so. After resigning, I requested the money via email, but I was informed that I would not receive it. They even suggested that if I disagreed, I could take the matter to court. However, the legal costs in Nepal are prohibitively expensive, and pursuing legal action may end up costing more than the amount they owe to the employees. As a result, most employees choose not to take legal action.On the other hand, the organization deducts the first 15 days' salary without any written agreement from the newly recruited employees in the name of volunteering.
Susmita Ghimire
Susmita Ghimire
11:49 04 Aug 23
Hi i am Susmita. And i volunteered in Okhaldhunga for 6 weeks. During my six weeks, i did library project, permaculture project and women empowerment project.I would like to thank VIN for everything.I got to learn new things each and everyday.Everyday was something new and exciting. I also got to meet the most amazing people from the different corner of the world(I miss you guys).I will forever cherish those memories. Those 6 weeks in okhaldhunga are the best time of my life. I am so glad that i took this volunteering opportunity with VIN. VIN feels like a home to me. 🫶 Forever grateful for each and everything that Okhaldhunga and VIN gave me.
Marie Cadoux
Marie Cadoux
10:02 03 Aug 23
I volunteered for VIN in 2019-2020, and I have great memories of it. I discovered a team that was both committed and friendly, working on field projects that directly contributed to the well-being of marginalized populations. I was based 10km from Kathmandu, in Tarakeshwore, where I helped develop the Child Development program. I had the opportunity to audit schools sponsored by the organization and to interact with the community (teachers, children, women, and villagers in general). I wish my mission could have been longer! It was a personally and professionally enriching experience, thanks to both the VIN team and the international volunteers I met along the way.I wish you all the very best !Thank you, VIN!
Bhawana Basnet
Bhawana Basnet
14:59 11 Jul 23
Namaste!I'm Bhawana Basnet. I am a bachelor student in BSW from Manamaiju and I was in this VIN Organization to complete my Internship. I did a 12 week long internship with VIN in many projects including First Aid Session, Youth Empowerment, Public Health Research, Teaching At Monasteries, Health Sessions and so on. The opportunity to collaborate on a project with such wonderful individuals was a life-changing experience for me and I consider myself really fortunate. It was a delight to work with the international volunteers they were so nice, cheerful, and amusing. It was a truly wonderful week that let me to meet new people get knowledge about the VIN and take part in its program. As I worked here I had an opportunity to build relationships with individuals and was in a wonderful environment to acquire new skills, gain confidence, and sharpen communication abilities. I am thankful for the opportunities and projects I was able to work on and it was wonderful to be a part of VIN which gives volunteers a platform or opportunity. A special thanks goes out to (DIDI) from WBC, who helped us set up the locations when we were doing community-based public health research. She was quite beneficial to us. And lastly, I want to express my gratitude to Ashok Sir, Dinesh Sir, and Bhupi Sir for leading us, encouraging us, and providing us the chance to work with VIN.If you're considering volunteering in Nepal, I'd highly suggest this organization. They link you with the appropriate project through which you may assist communities. Due to the kindness of Ashok Sir, Dinesh Sir, and Bhupi Sir, your volunteering experience will be truly exceptional. In addition, you will stay with the most amazing host family and meet many other international and local volunteers. This organization has the proper heart and is making a significant difference with the assistance of local and international volunteers.
Abhishek Sarangkoti
Abhishek Sarangkoti
12:27 19 Jun 23
Hello everyone!I was in Okhaldhunga as VIN volunteer. I was there for library project. It was a great experience to explore rural part of Nepal which is completely different from city area. The culture, customs were very unique and the hospitality was very good.Regarding my project, my work was to provide brief knowledge about library to children. As children from that area had less knowledge about library, we're there to provide awareness about it.Children were very enthusiastic and eager to learn during our sessions. And in my free time I used to enroll with other volunteers to help them with their projects.Volunteering with VIN was a great experience, to be able to interact with other volunteers from all around the world, got the opportunity to share culture with them and the staffs who were there for our care and to help us whenever we needed help.Thank you VIN, all the volunteers and the staffs for a life long memories.
Theo Boutemy
Theo Boutemy
17:23 03 May 23
Hi everyone !I've been volunteering with VIN for the last 3 months in Okhaldhunga, a village lost in the middle of the montains.So far it has been one of the best experience in my life.I've been working on the permaculture project. The goal was to teach to the farmers the principles of permaculture and to help them in the construction of their own garden. It has been a lot of hard work in the fields but I learned so much from the communities there. The people are so welcoming and were always so happy.Volunteering with VIN is also a real opportunity to meet amazing volunteers from all around the world.Thanks to every staff member. You are all doing an amazing job! The security of the volunteers is a priority, and you will always have a fast answer in case you need help.Thank you VIN for this experience.See you next year !😀Théo
Patricia Flaam
Patricia Flaam
02:06 02 May 23
I ve been volunteering in the DRR research project for 5 months in Okhaldhunga. The rural Nepal is traditional, quiet and, when you first arrive, full of strange habits in a beautiful mountainous landscape. However, I would never have experienced a more true and intense time somewhere else and I am grateful to everyone I met and who showed me the beauty of Nepal.That is not to say that there were no challenges and hardships. But I didn't leave Europe to continue the comfortable life and to find everything according to my previous experiences. Different environments make you leave your comfort zone and that's challenging and not always pleasant. But in the end it's even more rewarding.Thank you Sunita, Samita, Ramesh, Didi, Uttar, Resham, and everyone else for giving me a second home!Patricia
Silvia Avoguadra
Silvia Avoguadra
02:18 30 Apr 23
My husband and I had our best volunteering experience in the world with Volunteers Initiative Nepal (VIN). After travelling and volunteering around the world for a year, we'd like to highly recommend VIN - from the very beginning (first contact, information before arriving in Nepal, transportation, section of the program, lodgement....) to the very end of the experience, the communication with VIN was amazing and we loved our placement and the family where we've stayed at as well as the school. We had also lots of occasions to interact with the other volunteers with trips, catch-ups... thanks to the support of the friendly, capable staff at VIN. Bhupi the manager is one of the most humble and amazing persons we met during our trip, always there to help and make sure you get the most out of the experience as well as the hosts (schools, monasteries...). Highly recommended as a volunteering experience, especially if it's your first. Nepali people are the most kind people we met and the culture, the food, the landscapes are unique!
GARIMA THAPA
GARIMA THAPA
09:46 03 Jan 24
Namaste!I'm garima thapa. During my 12 weeks in Vin i did Youth research project, public health research, climate change research, and educating people on stress management and women trafficking.working on this project with international volunteers was a great opportunity and i learned a lot from them and I'd want to thank Vin for allowing me to work on other projects I also feel that working at Vin helped me to become a better speaker and improve my communication skills. I also want to express my gratitude to Sanju DD for all of her help and guidance which allowed me to learn something new every single day. I would like to thank VIN for everything in this regard.
Pramila Maharjan
Pramila Maharjan
06:44 24 Dec 23
My experience at VIN was amazing.I choose VIN for different role within community. I had very good time in Jitpur fedi.We made the beautiful connection with community people's. I love to work together within the international volunteers and local volunteers. Thank you for giving me this great opportunity to deed into the community.
PRAJWOL POUDEL
PRAJWOL POUDEL
14:35 20 Dec 23
Volunteering with VIN has given me lots of new experiences and memories. Working with international volunteers, community people, and VIN staff was wonderful. I did meet some amazing people and made new friends and this volunteering has made me feel like I can make a change to the community of Nepal. I do wish to join back with VIN at some point again..:)
Varsha Pradhan
Varsha Pradhan
10:48 20 Dec 23
Astha Gurung
Astha Gurung
10:43 20 Dec 23
Manita Basnet
Manita Basnet
10:27 20 Dec 23
Richa Ghimire
Richa Ghimire
10:01 20 Dec 23
justine Squire
justine Squire
05:09 11 Dec 23
I’ve had an amazing experience with VIN. From the first emails to prepare to commit to this program, my arrival and induction, the support and check -ins during the volunteering and of course the exit and farewell, all of which I received excellent support and communication.VIN is a wonderful NGO organisation which has been in existence for 18 years and was founded by a local person who grew up in an isolated village in the far east of Nepal, hence, he is really in touch with the needs of his people.I was involved in the Women’s Empowerment Program.I developed a presentation for women in small villages. With a beautiful local girl (my translator), I trekked 20mins - 2 hrs to various villages. We taught leadership and self -care through the use of posters, music, dancing and games.I was also asked to run a more in-depth program with women that were leaders in their communities. We spent 2 days with these women, working on communication, public speaking skills, roles of committee members and meeting protocols. The women in this program noticeably improved in their confidence over the 2 days!As well as being able to contribute to Women and their empowerment, I was enriched personally through being involved in the rich culture of the Nepali people. The other volunteers and I were welcomed into Tihar celebrations - an experience we will never forget.I highly recommend being involved in this program.
Barbara R.
Barbara R.
13:11 10 Nov 23
I would like to recommend this association to anyone who wants to have a volunteer experience in Nepal. You will be followed every step of the way, both in organizing and managing the project. You will meet wonderful people who will introduce you to Nepalese culture! Thank you VIN for this great experience!
Hyari Sharma
Hyari Sharma
17:34 11 Oct 23
Samrachana Devkota
Samrachana Devkota
09:47 06 Oct 23
It was really a good experience to be a part of VIN. All the staffs and volunteers are really very helpful, charming and respectful that made my journey more easier and unforgettable.
Shreejana Ghale
Shreejana Ghale
11:43 09 Aug 23
During my volunteering at Volunteer initiative Nepal (VIN), I had an opportunity to engage on youth research project. Our main goal was to understand the interest of the local youth regarding training programs. Through this experience, i not only learned a great deal about research methodologies but gained the insights of the specific needs and aspiration of youth in the community. It was fullfilling to contribute to this important work.Overall, my time there was enriching and fulfilling, leaving me with lasting memories and sense of contribution. Thankyou so much VIN for giving this amazing opportunity.
Nabina Thapa
Nabina Thapa
08:54 09 Aug 23
I'm glad that I had got chance to work with Volunteers Initiative Nepal .... It's my honor to work with this organization .... Such a good experience I found in this organization while I'm working in this organization ..... I had got a lot of projects opportunity with some international volunteer and it was such a great and good experience......... I had got the chance to worked in youth research and sport project in jitpur fede teenpeple....... I have got chance the some extra project of sexual hygiene classes organized by nabina thapa Shreejana Ghale and kajwol Luplunge .........
San Jeeta
San Jeeta
08:40 09 Aug 23
Overall it was good. I learned a lot of things i didn't know before. I got a chance to meet new people, learn new culture and had better understanding of society and community. Learned more about organisation. Had a chance to work with children's and international volunteers. The experience is really good but organisation didn't provide any means of transportation and internet it was hard to continue our project and Local facilitator was biased, didn't follow the code and ethics and principles a social worker should follow.
Shailendra Bajagai
Shailendra Bajagai
02:10 06 Aug 23
For 9 months, I worked as the District Program Coordinator at VIN (Volunteers Initiative Nepal), stationed at the NaraTika Learning Center in Okhaldhunga. Regrettably, the experience turned out to be rather bitter for me.It was a bitter experience for me as the organization did not fulfill its promise to provide the amount of provident fund (PF) and gratuity as per our agreement. According to the agreement, VIN was supposed to deposit these amounts into the respective accounts after 6 months of employment, but they failed to do so. After resigning, I requested the money via email, but I was informed that I would not receive it. They even suggested that if I disagreed, I could take the matter to court. However, the legal costs in Nepal are prohibitively expensive, and pursuing legal action may end up costing more than the amount they owe to the employees. As a result, most employees choose not to take legal action.On the other hand, the organization deducts the first 15 days' salary without any written agreement from the newly recruited employees in the name of volunteering.
Susmita Ghimire
Susmita Ghimire
11:49 04 Aug 23
Hi i am Susmita. And i volunteered in Okhaldhunga for 6 weeks. During my six weeks, i did library project, permaculture project and women empowerment project.I would like to thank VIN for everything.I got to learn new things each and everyday.Everyday was something new and exciting. I also got to meet the most amazing people from the different corner of the world(I miss you guys).I will forever cherish those memories. Those 6 weeks in okhaldhunga are the best time of my life. I am so glad that i took this volunteering opportunity with VIN. VIN feels like a home to me. 🫶 Forever grateful for each and everything that Okhaldhunga and VIN gave me.
Marie Cadoux
Marie Cadoux
10:02 03 Aug 23
I volunteered for VIN in 2019-2020, and I have great memories of it. I discovered a team that was both committed and friendly, working on field projects that directly contributed to the well-being of marginalized populations. I was based 10km from Kathmandu, in Tarakeshwore, where I helped develop the Child Development program. I had the opportunity to audit schools sponsored by the organization and to interact with the community (teachers, children, women, and villagers in general). I wish my mission could have been longer! It was a personally and professionally enriching experience, thanks to both the VIN team and the international volunteers I met along the way.I wish you all the very best !Thank you, VIN!
Bhawana Basnet
Bhawana Basnet
14:59 11 Jul 23
Namaste!I'm Bhawana Basnet. I am a bachelor student in BSW from Manamaiju and I was in this VIN Organization to complete my Internship. I did a 12 week long internship with VIN in many projects including First Aid Session, Youth Empowerment, Public Health Research, Teaching At Monasteries, Health Sessions and so on. The opportunity to collaborate on a project with such wonderful individuals was a life-changing experience for me and I consider myself really fortunate. It was a delight to work with the international volunteers they were so nice, cheerful, and amusing. It was a truly wonderful week that let me to meet new people get knowledge about the VIN and take part in its program. As I worked here I had an opportunity to build relationships with individuals and was in a wonderful environment to acquire new skills, gain confidence, and sharpen communication abilities. I am thankful for the opportunities and projects I was able to work on and it was wonderful to be a part of VIN which gives volunteers a platform or opportunity. A special thanks goes out to (DIDI) from WBC, who helped us set up the locations when we were doing community-based public health research. She was quite beneficial to us. And lastly, I want to express my gratitude to Ashok Sir, Dinesh Sir, and Bhupi Sir for leading us, encouraging us, and providing us the chance to work with VIN.If you're considering volunteering in Nepal, I'd highly suggest this organization. They link you with the appropriate project through which you may assist communities. Due to the kindness of Ashok Sir, Dinesh Sir, and Bhupi Sir, your volunteering experience will be truly exceptional. In addition, you will stay with the most amazing host family and meet many other international and local volunteers. This organization has the proper heart and is making a significant difference with the assistance of local and international volunteers.
Abhishek Sarangkoti
Abhishek Sarangkoti
12:27 19 Jun 23
Hello everyone!I was in Okhaldhunga as VIN volunteer. I was there for library project. It was a great experience to explore rural part of Nepal which is completely different from city area. The culture, customs were very unique and the hospitality was very good.Regarding my project, my work was to provide brief knowledge about library to children. As children from that area had less knowledge about library, we're there to provide awareness about it.Children were very enthusiastic and eager to learn during our sessions. And in my free time I used to enroll with other volunteers to help them with their projects.Volunteering with VIN was a great experience, to be able to interact with other volunteers from all around the world, got the opportunity to share culture with them and the staffs who were there for our care and to help us whenever we needed help.Thank you VIN, all the volunteers and the staffs for a life long memories.
Theo Boutemy
Theo Boutemy
17:23 03 May 23
Hi everyone !I've been volunteering with VIN for the last 3 months in Okhaldhunga, a village lost in the middle of the montains.So far it has been one of the best experience in my life.I've been working on the permaculture project. The goal was to teach to the farmers the principles of permaculture and to help them in the construction of their own garden. It has been a lot of hard work in the fields but I learned so much from the communities there. The people are so welcoming and were always so happy.Volunteering with VIN is also a real opportunity to meet amazing volunteers from all around the world.Thanks to every staff member. You are all doing an amazing job! The security of the volunteers is a priority, and you will always have a fast answer in case you need help.Thank you VIN for this experience.See you next year !😀Théo
Patricia Flaam
Patricia Flaam
02:06 02 May 23
I ve been volunteering in the DRR research project for 5 months in Okhaldhunga. The rural Nepal is traditional, quiet and, when you first arrive, full of strange habits in a beautiful mountainous landscape. However, I would never have experienced a more true and intense time somewhere else and I am grateful to everyone I met and who showed me the beauty of Nepal.That is not to say that there were no challenges and hardships. But I didn't leave Europe to continue the comfortable life and to find everything according to my previous experiences. Different environments make you leave your comfort zone and that's challenging and not always pleasant. But in the end it's even more rewarding.Thank you Sunita, Samita, Ramesh, Didi, Uttar, Resham, and everyone else for giving me a second home!Patricia
Silvia Avoguadra
Silvia Avoguadra
02:18 30 Apr 23
My husband and I had our best volunteering experience in the world with Volunteers Initiative Nepal (VIN). After travelling and volunteering around the world for a year, we'd like to highly recommend VIN - from the very beginning (first contact, information before arriving in Nepal, transportation, section of the program, lodgement....) to the very end of the experience, the communication with VIN was amazing and we loved our placement and the family where we've stayed at as well as the school. We had also lots of occasions to interact with the other volunteers with trips, catch-ups... thanks to the support of the friendly, capable staff at VIN. Bhupi the manager is one of the most humble and amazing persons we met during our trip, always there to help and make sure you get the most out of the experience as well as the hosts (schools, monasteries...). Highly recommended as a volunteering experience, especially if it's your first. Nepali people are the most kind people we met and the culture, the food, the landscapes are unique!
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Your Experience/Setting

On arrival you will be greeted at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) and transported to your hotel / hostel (alternative arrangements can be made for those already in Nepal prior to the start of their placement). You will then receive a comprehensive a two to three-day induction, during that time you will be provided with information about your particular project as well as general information, including basic Nepalese language and culture, health and safety. This is also a good time to mix with other volunteers or interns who may be great sight-seeing companions and a source of support during your volunteer placement.

During the induction you will be accommodated in a budget hotel or hostel at VIN. However, a large part of the VIN experience comes from the immersion of a

home stay with a Nepalese host family. While this is an essential part of the experience we also recognize that it can be a challenging one, becoming part of a new culture and becoming accustomed to facilities that will be more basic than those you are used to. However, all our host families are experienced in accommodating volunteers – although their ability to speak English will vary – and you will have 24 hours’ access to contact and support from our staff members during your placement.

Volunteers will be placed in one of VIN’s working areas namely Tarakeshor Municipality of Kathmandu, Taluwa, Thulachhap and Bhadaure of Okhaldhunga, and Okharpouwa, Kaule of Nuwakot district. While at the working site the volunteers are requested to bring their own lunch, water bottle, safety gears, face mask and other essential belongings. As a volunteer you are advised to be in a comfortable and modest attire with preferably long sleeves. If you wish to raise project funds or collect project specific resources, you may contact us.

What VIN offers you in return?

  • On Arrival orientation (two to three days)
  • Food and Accommodation during on arrival orientation at VIN’s hostel / budget hotel on sharing basis
  • Food and Accommodation during Placement: Nepali Standard local host family – 3 meals a day
  • Transportation: Airport pick up; one time transport to and from the project site
  • Local volunteers’ support cost (optional)
  • VIN T-shirt
  • Certificate of participation
  • 24 hours emergency support
  • VIN admin cost.

What is excluded? Airfare, VISA (http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/page/tourist-visa), vaccinations, travel & medical insurance, return airport transfer, personal travel and weekend activities expenses etc.

Schedule and Commitment

You will work five to six days a week, up to six hours per day. You may propose your preferred time and hours; however, the working time period will be dependent on the institution you have been placed. A minimum of 2 weeks’ time commitment is expected of a volunteer. The longer you commit, the better impact you can make. You should be willing to commit a certain amount of your free time and energy, show a lot of commitment and be a good listener. You are expected to work constructively and co-operatively maintaining good reputation and standards at all times. Volunteer should abide by relevant security concerns and access procedures. Moreover, you should be receptive and positive to performance appraisal, advice and feedback. Throughout your placement you will have the full support of VIN. Your safety is our highest priority.

Mentoring and Support System

You will receive a clear and concise on-the-job instructions, course of action, context of work and policies/strategies before your placement begins. You will be

provided with ample of guidance and support throughout the placement with trainings / onboarding sessions incase necessary. You will be in a constant communication and regular check-in with the VIN volunteer coordinator. VIN aims to maintain a culture of continuous feedback between the volunteer supervisor at the placement to monitor the performance of the volunteer and ensure the project delivers desired outcomes.

In case of an emergency, you may contact one of our Volunteer Coordinators who will be available anytime for your assistance and support.

Time and Fees

Mid and Long Term Volunteers:
  • 2 weeks minimum stay- € 385
  • 3 weeks – 470€
  • 4 weeks – 555€ (after 4 weeks for each additional week we charge €75)
University Internships:
  • 4 weeks minimum stay- € 615 (for each additional week we charge €85)

Requirements

  • Gender: Female / Male
  • Minimum Age: 18+ years (16-17 years old person can volunteer but need to present parents’ consent letter)
  • Language: English (Intermediate)
  • Educational: High School Graduate

Desirable/ Common Skills 

  • Excellent communicator with good interpersonal skills
  • A team player with good work ethics
  • Time management and leadership qualities
  • Adaptable, flexible and able to work under pressure
  • Accepting of different ideas and culture
  • Problem solving: always be part of solutions than part of a problem
  • Creative