Volunteer in Childcare in Nepal

I’ve been able to meet like-minded people, immerse myself in the culture by living with a local family, and engage in the community by making a difference where needed. I feel so incredibly fortunate to have been able to experience this as it has genuinely given me a new perspective. I would 100% recommend it. My advice would be that if you have the capacity to help others, why wouldn’t you? And that you’ll never regret making a difference in other peoples lives. Volunteering experience aside, IVHQ is a great organisation to go through as they are helpful and organised.

Whenever I had questions, my IVHQ Program Manager responded quickly, and the way she responded was assuring. When I was in Nepal, I always had the support from my host family when I had questions about the Nepali culture or insights on certain situations. I felt assured and safe at all times. One door opened and another opportunity presented itself - it happened many times in unexpected ways. The center I volunteered was so eager to absorb every ounce of knowledge and skills I demonstrated and offered. At the same time I was eager to soak up in the Nepali culture and learn who they are. The two-way of learning from each other naturally allowed relationships to blossom authentically and organically. I believe that my success in volunteering experience was having a mentality of “it is what I make of it” and partially being older with decades of life experience. Instead of criticizing and complaining, I accepted and embraced it all.

The team is always trying their best to answer all our questions and make the process easier for volunteers. I will be volunteering with IVHQ again :) The local team are nice people always willing to help in everything we needed. They are all lovely people. No complains! It is priceless to see how happy people are just to receive us. It was a blessing for me to receive their hospitality and willingness to accept what I had to give, as well as to share their life’s and time with me. I will always be grateful for this experience. My advice to other volunteers is that volunteering is a great experience, but we must be able to understand boundaries, have respect, be able to adapt to cultural differences, and try our best. So have an open mind and heart makes all difference. Be willing to serve and give without expecting anything back, makes the experience fulfilling and unforgettable. Being open, kind, eager to help, and ready to listen can make a big impact in ourselves, others, and their communities.