volunteer induction
Published on: 09 Mar 2014

Induction Program to New Volunteers

VIN (Volunteers Initiative Nepal) welcomed new volunteers this time also, they came and stayed with their group in the hotel of Nepal’s most popular and touristic place Thamel where they could spend time together to know each other .They had enjoyed 3-days induction program starting from 1st march. The volunteers received overview induction, cultural tips, Nepali language and health tips at the VIN head-office before being dispatched to their assignments.
 
There were altogether 9 volunteers this time. The group was composed of 2  French citizens( Vermaera Antoine and Scemama Arthur), a Canadian citizen(Nathan solar), an Australian(John michelis), an American citizen(Jessie Webber), 2 German citizens(Astrid and Philip), a New Zealand citizen(Ashleigh Davies) and a citizen from Hongkong(Lydia). Some participants travelled only to volunteer while some travelled to volunteering as well as to spend their vacation and some are already thinking to extend their volunteering for next year as well in their gap time. They will volunteer for a period of 2 to 12 weeks and have been assigned various tasks such as teaching English at Buddhist monasteries(Nathan solar, Ashleigh Davies, Jessie Webber and Scemama Arthur ), Construction and manual work (Vermaera Antoine), Youth Empowerment (John michelis), Environment and Agroforestry(Lydia).  Charity Trek (Astrid and Philip).
 
 
All the new volunteers were highly involved and took great interest in the presentation which was given by Bhupendra Ghimire on ‘VIN and its activities’ and Dinesh kumar khatiwada on the topic ‘Nepal and its culture’ While Doctor Laxmi Ghimire had his contribution by providing valuable tips about healthcare. Nepali lessons and the sight seeing two places-Boudha and Patan were also facilitated by  Shradha shakya which were greatly enjoyed by new volunteers.
 
 
All is organized well and going smoothly according to plan so far. Now, everyone is very excited to do more and real work. You can also be part of our volunteering programs and involved in 46 different long and Mid term volunteering projects. Get involved now.

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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