Namaste!

Dear Members and Valued Supporters,
With immense pride and gratitude, we present the Annual Report for the remarkable year 2022, showcasing the accomplishments of Volunteers Initiative Nepal (ViN). As President, I am pleased to reflect on our transformative journey in the past year.

Throughout 2022, our collective efforts, determination, and compassion fueled positive change in communities across our beloved nation. Our commitment to women’s empowerment was exemplified through 75 enlightening classes, impacting 720 women with invaluable life skills and knowledge. The ripple effect of these initiatives is evident as 1,839 lives were transformed through our microcredit program,
fostering entrepreneurship and financial independence among beneficiaries.

Children’s development remains a cornerstone of our mission. We nurtured young minds in 57 Early Childhood Development centres, paving the way for a brighter future. With 63 dedicated teachers, volunteers and sponsorship provided to 48 underprivileged children, we ensured access to quality education and vital healthcare services. We constructed two beautiful child-friendly classrooms that benefit 40 children aged 3-5 years.

The essence of our achievements rested in our commitment to youth empowerment. We welcomed 75 dynamic youths into our IT training program, with 42 excelling in English language skills, thereby influencing the lives of 3,265 individuals. The guidance of our 35 devoted volunteers illuminated the path for nurturing young talents and aspirations.

Public health catalysed our accomplishments, empowering 430 individuals through comprehensive training while providing compassionate care to 173. Our menstrual hygiene programs showed our unwavering commitment to women’s health.

Additionally, our dedication to environmental conservation manifested through the installation of 11 water tanks and training for 57 individuals in promoting organic farming, responsible water usage, and heightened awareness.

None of these accomplishments would have been feasible without the dedication of our staff, the support of volunteers and partners, and the unwavering generosity of our esteemed donors. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who have played a pivotal role in making a difference in the lives of marginalised rural Nepalese communities.

With our valued stakeholders’ continued support and collaboration, we remain committed to creating an even more meaningful impact in the future. As we look ahead to 2023, we anticipate yet another year of changing lives and making a positive difference, hand in hand and heart to heart.

Warm regards,
Bhupi Ghimire
President
Volunteers Initiative Nepal (ViN)

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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.

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

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)

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.

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