Empower the Disabled: Volunteers Making a Difference in Nepal

In Nepal, individuals with disabilities face severe neglect and social stigma, often hidden away by their families out of shame. Deaf individuals, who make up 24.6% of the population, are particularly marginalized, especially in rural areas where access to education and Sign Language training is almost nonexistent. Even in schools for the deaf, there is a lack of appropriate curriculum.

Volunteering with Real Journey Nepal offers a unique opportunity to provide the support and care these individuals desperately need. Many disabled people in Nepal live isolated lives, confined to dark rooms by ashamed relatives, stripped of dignity and respect. Without financial support, they often resort to begging. By volunteering, you can help bring education, skills, and hope to these marginalized communities, fostering an environment of inclusion, love, and empowerment. Join us in transforming lives and making a lasting impact in Nepal.

Volunteers can choose between two impactful options to assist individuals with special needs:

  • School for Deaf Children: Engage in teaching and support activities to help deaf children gain access to quality education and Sign Language training.
  • Rehabilitation Center: Provide care and rehabilitation for children with mental and physical disabilities, helping them develop essential life skills and improving their quality of life.

Volunteer Society Nepal’s works with deaf schools in Banepa and Pokhara. Both are always hugely grateful for the extra helping hands of international volunteers.

How Do Volunteers Help?

Deaf students are eager to learn and are always enthusiastic about improving their skills, particularly in reading and writing. Volunteers typically spend up to 6 hours a day at the school, assisting teachers in lesson preparation and helping conduct classes. Teaching English often becomes the primary role of volunteers, as deaf children are especially keen to master the language. Depending on their experience, volunteers may also offer advice on new teaching methods and introduce creative activities to engage the students.

Additionally, based on their skills, volunteers can provide vocational training, develop income-generating programs, and integrate technology into the children’s learning process.

Do I Need Any Specific Skills or Qualifications for This Placement?

To volunteer at a school for deaf children, you must have an understanding of international sign language. Patience, friendliness, and approachability are crucial, as you will need to learn Nepali Sign Language and adapt to a completely different world of signs and silence. This work can be quite challenging due to the various communication modes and learning difficulties, but the school’s staff is always available to guide and support volunteers.

Where in Nepal Can I Volunteer in a School for Deaf Children?

The schools for deaf children where we place volunteers are located in Banepa, 22 km east of Kathmandu in the Hills Region, and in Pokhara. Both cities offer a unique blend of rural and urban cultural experiences. Banepa, with its small-town charm and proximity to Kathmandu, provides a peaceful and fascinating environment. Pokhara, the second most visited city in Nepal, is renowned for its breathtaking mountain views and the serene Lake Phewa, making it an ideal place to live and volunteer.

Working at a Center for Disabled Children

Volunteering at centers for mentally and physically disabled children is another impactful opportunity we offer.

We also place volunteers in centers for mentally and physically disabled children.

Volunteers’ Role at the Center for Disabled Children

Volunteers dedicate up to 6 hours a day at the center, where they assist caregivers in organizing and conducting activities for the children. For those students capable of learning, volunteers may teach basic English. Additionally, they help plan local outings and design creative learning sessions. Depending on their experience, volunteers might also educate Nepali staff on care methods, provide vocational training, initiate income-generating programs, and introduce technology to enhance the students’ learning and play. If you have a preference for working with physically or mentally disabled students, please mention this in your application.

Do I need any specific skills or qualifications for this placement?

While previous experience with disabled children can enhance the volunteer experience, it is not a requirement. Volunteers must be patient, friendly, and approachable. The work can be challenging due to the various learning and physical difficulties encountered, but the staff at the center are always available to guide and support the volunteers.

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