NEPAL ORPHANS HOME INC
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May 16, 2013
I volunteered there last summer and I had the best time ever! I can't wait to come back again and again and again like I know so many of the volunteers have. It's a relatively loose and not-so-professional approach to volunteerism since it's such a small organization, but it works out (at least for me) so, so well! Depending on the duration of your stay, the impact the volunteering has varies I feel. It's definitely not null if you are just a short visitor, but I think you can make the most impact by laying out a summer or a few months of free time and just assimilating into the beautiful culture here. We can really get that because of how insanely genuine this program is.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Try to make it just a tiny bit more profesional in terms of organization so that it can expand into a larger (but not too more larger) volunteering organization. Also, try to encourage volunteers to stay longer so that they can really experience at least Kathmandu (if they stay in the valley). Lastly, try to shorten/quicken the whole "culture lesson" the volunteers get in the beginning, especially if they're only going to be here for a week or so. That just makes the experience feel faker.
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
A lot
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
April 15, 2012
1 person found this review helpful
I ( 51 yrs old ) have been a volunteer at NOH since November 2008, and have returned 7 times , either alone or with students , from three schools( 1 in Switzerland , and two in France ) and their administrations to set up and promote volunteering programs at NOH , a totally worthy organization . My experience was so healthy , inspiring and accountable in every sense of the word, that I am confident in all my efforts to try to start service groups in schools, Women's clubs , and churches. A 501(c) 3 charity, 100% well run , and with values to promote and develop solid education , both primary , secondary , and vocational planning , both for work skills , and living skills . This is an organization that gives to the local Nepali children the opportunity for a life and future that they deserve : safe , happy,challenging successful ! NOH intends to offer safe futures with work , and joy to these kids' lives . In 2011 , Aiglon College had the experience of sending 8 students to teach computer skills , and English , exactly what the children need for their future work experiences . They gave in many ways to NOH , proudly , and happily and will be returning in October 2012 . Paris schools , EABJM and ASP , have home groups and clubs that do fund raising and advocacy meetings about Nepali issues and one ASP Volunteer has started Skyping every Saturday with the NOH boys . Overall, the NOH volunteer program is fantastic, safe , happy , and multi faceted , a time for each volunteer to learn their own living skills , take mission challenges in and out of Kathmandu , and have a myriad of one on one experiences with the NOH kids . I love NOH and Volunteer Nepal ! And so do my daughter (18 ) and son(15 ) .
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Life-changing
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2011
March 27, 2012
1 person found this review helpful
I volunteered for 3 months with Nepal Orphans Home (NOH) and Volunteer Nepal (VN) doing different things in different locations. I volunteered in rural, pre-himalayan Nepal teaching English and helping at a rural health post, and at orphanages in Kathmandu. The whole experience was incredible and definitely this organization and the staff working for it are amazing. You have plenty of volunteer options to choose from. I totally recommend NOH and VN for your volunteer experience.
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Life-changing
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2011
March 5, 2012
I spent five months volunteering with NOH in 2009. The director, Michael Hess, and all of the support staff are amazing in every way. Michael truly loves every single child in his care; even if I had just stayed at Papa's House and worked with the children there, my time in Nepal would be just as meaningful. There was plenty of communication before I arrived, so much support for my choices while I was in the country, and continued updates after I left. After looking at all of my options and having questions answered by staff and other volunteers, I chose where to work. I was able to travel to four different placements, as well as stay in Kathmandu for a month, to volunteer in various schools and hospitals. I gave my all at most of my placements as an English teacher and tutor. Working with NOH changed my life, and if you choose to volunteer with them, I have no doubts it will change yours. I have high hopes to return in the future.
Photos
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
A lot
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Quite well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2009
March 2, 2012
I spent 3 months in Nepal working with NOH. This organization is absolutly amazing. I spent my entire time in Kathmandu with Papa's House because I fell in love with the kids and staff. I loved every single day there. While there not only did I work with the Papa's House children, but I also got to go to another orphanage in Kathmandu which was set up through NOH. From the moment I arrived in nepal I felt like I was part of an amazing new family! They were all so sweet and welcoming. NOH gives you so many opportunities to explore and visit other parts of Nepal, ad learn about an amazing culture. I love NOH and can't wait to go back.
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Life-changing
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
March 2, 2012
I spent almost seven months with Nepal Orphans Home. I spent my first three months working in Kathmandu with Nepal Orphans Home kids helping with homework, walking them to school, I even spent a month in one of the orphanages which was amazing in itself because I really was exposed to the lives of the kids and got to participate and help out in everything they did. During the day when I was in Kathmandu I would go to one of the government orphanages and play with the babies there. All the kids I worked with always would put a smile on my face, from the moment I walked in the door and saw smiling happy faces to see me, I was automatically smiling and ecstatic to see them too. I was excited to get up and feel like I was making a difference everyday. Through Nepal Orphans Home and Volunteer Nepal, I went to a Buddhist monastery for a month and taught the nuns there English. It was a very different experience, they had puja (prayer) every day at 5:30 in the morning and we were always welcome to go. I was there for the Tibetan New Year and there were many festivities leading up to it which once again was an experience like none other. When I came back from the monastery, I went to Pokhara for a few weeks to teach in a school there as well. I also went to the Terai region of Nepal, lived with a family for 2 weeks and taught in a school there as well. I spent my last 3 months in Kathmandu doing what I did for my first three months there because I loved it so much.
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Life-changing
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Quite well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
March 2, 2012
My daughter and I were volunteers in NOH in 2005. It was an organization that was just beginning. I would like to express that the director Michael Hess was very kind and seemed that destiny had sent him to Nepal. He was very honest, dedicated, and focused on helping the children in Nepal. As I write this review, it is evident, that this is an organization of purpose, honor, and success. It is on my life's list to return to such an honorable organization with such honest intents. Rating....100% and more.
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Life-changing
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
March 2, 2012
I spent five months with NOH in 2010. There was plenty of e-mailing before I even left my home and I felt instantly welcomed and safe and ready for whatever was to come as soon as I arrived. They took such good care of me, making sure I got on the right bus to travel to a new placement 30 hours away, riding the bus with me for 30 hours, and staying a night just to make sure I was comfortable and okay. The individuals at NOH are amazing human beings, and everyday I miss them. The schools I taught at were full of bright inquisitive eyes and I can honestly say I have never seen so many children who LOVE learning... in my life! The children just melted my heart, and I miss them everyday. The volunteers all develop a special bond with each other at this organization, and I know many lifelong friendships have started on the rooftop of the volunteer house. Thank you NOH for showing me how to truly love and give to those in need. Namaste.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
Being the first of NOH volunteers to go to a placement in Baitadi, a 30 hour bus ride from Kathmandu. My stay was successful, the children I taught at the school there were so excited to talk with me and ask questions about life outside of their village, many of the children told me they want to live in my country someday, we built and organized a library, and now this small village is connected with the possibility of future volunteers and hope and love.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
not.
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Life-changing
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
What one change could this group make that would improve your volunteer experience?
I think they are doing the best they can, and are constantly working with volunteers to get feedback which they then use to make changes to the way things work. I had a great time, and wouldn't change a thing.
Did your volunteer experience have an effect on you? (teaching you a new skill, or introducing new friends, etc.)
My experience changed my life in so many ways. I have never felt so capable and empowered... like I really can make a difference. The children are just sooooo happy to meet each volunteer, and are so grateful for every moment and every hug and every smile. They taught me to appreciate every single thing... no matter how big or small. And I will live this way forever.
How did this volunteer experience make you feel?
Like anything is possible.
March 2, 2012
My family first heard about Nepal Orphans Home through past volunteers. They raved about the wonderful people and the amazing organization. My younger sister decided to go volunteer for a year there following high school. I could not have asked for a better family for my 18-year-old sister to become a part of in a new country. Everything I heard from her about the work she did and everything I hear from other volunteers have completely convinced me that I want to go there too one day. Last Christmas, we started a campaign to raise money for the children there and we know that our money is going to a great place and every cent is used for the welfare of the children. Michael, the founder, is devoted to the children and their safety and every bit of work that is done for those kids makes a difference. I highly recommend this not for profit and donating to them!
More feedback...
Will you volunteer or donate to this organization?
Definitely
How much of an impact do you think this organization has?
Life-changing
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
March 1, 2012
I spent 6 weeks in Nepal back in September and October 2011! I couldn't have dream better for a first experience as a volunteer abroad! I went with one of my friend, and a co-ordinator picked us up from the airport, and lead us to the volunteer House in Dhapasi. We met the children and Micheal Hess while leading them to school the next day..What a meeting!Since october is holiday time for the children, a lot of them were back home for the festivals. So Michael organized a camp and I "taught" drama and lead some art class! It was a wonderful experience, and you learned so much from those kids!! If you choose NOH, you'll do work with children, but you'll also visit 5 sites around Kathmandu, and you'll receive some basics about the culture and the language! I was in touch with NOH long before I arrived and I'm still in touch with them and the children now back at home. I met awesome people there, volunteers, kids, NOH workers, etc... And I'll be back there ASAP !! All I can say is GO APPLY !! There's no way you could be disappointed!!
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
A lot
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Quite well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2011
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