Himalayan Children's Charities Inc

Five stars is not enough to review Himalayan Children’s Charities (HCC). I could fill the sky with the stars that I offer this organization. And the light from those stars surely shines through the eyes of the dozens and dozens of children touched by this organization. I’ve volunteered, served on boards and worked for nonprofits in different capacities for about forty years. I have the utmost respect for HCC.

When our daughter, who had been interested in doing work in Nepal, took her life in 2015, we knew that we wanted to fulfill her dream in her name. We researched many organizations and were fortunate to find Himalayan Children’s Charities. Our relationship began by asking friends who were visiting Nepal, to please check them out. They came back with glowing report. We then offered a financial contribution. We learned through reports of how that money was put to use.

In the spring of 2017, I helped to organize a trip to Nepal with a group of family and friends. There were thirteen of us. Our hope was to make connections and give of ourselves in some way to the youth served by HCC. Though our intention was to give, we received much, much more! We spent seven solid days with both program managers and the youth of HCC. We had many opportunities to witness firsthand the work done by HCC. Yes, there are some orphans served; there are many, many children who are recipients of services who may have one or both parents. The parent(s) do not have the means to care for their children.

Himalayan Children’s Charities goes way beyond caring for the children’s basic needs. Food, shelter, and clothing are provided. But it’s not just a “house”, it is the feeling of “home” that is experienced. “Families” are created, as the older youth act as mentors to the younger ones. There is a strong emphasis on education. As part of the education, visions are put into motion regarding career goals. In a country fraught with little options, many turning to sexual trafficking. Those who participate in programs supported by HCC are at a significantly less risk to be sold into sexual slavery.

In addition, nurturing creativity is valued. Children with HCC have opportunities to sing, dance, play instruments, and act. For those who are experiencing emotional challenges, efforts are made to connect them with appropriate supports. In regions that were ravaged by the recent earthquakes, HCC finds ways to keep families in tact while supporting the children to attend schools. And the students themselves volunteer. They do receive supports, and they do have a chance to experience the joy of giving.

There are opportunities for graduates of the HCC program to continue to grow with HCC. Some of the people on staff there now, had formerly been helped by HCC for years. And there is so much laughter among people who are part of the organization. My hope is that our next trip will be one in which I can take some teens from NYS, to offer them a profound cross cultural experience. Do you now see why five stars is not enough?

Do not hesitate to contact me if you need more light shed on this Great Nonprofit!