Newsletter December 2018

A friendly Namaste to all our friends, patrons, members and sponsors

Paths are made by walking.

Franz Kafka

NEWSLETTER DECEMBER 2018

Page 1 Gentle reader,

I would like to begin this foreword by look- In 2011 we established a practical training pro- ing at the progress we have made since 2011. gram complete with workshops. The aim is to Similar to a magician pulling a dove from a top introduce young adults to the metal and wood hat, a small group of amateurs has pulled out an working trades as well as to the electrical in- elephant. Truly what your donations and our work dustry. On page 29 Unique Rawal a graduate have achieved is amazing. relates how much he enjoyed his time there CONTENTS and how he has remained to help out with the Here are just a few highlights: new students. In this December edition of our newsletter please read Since 2011 the authorities in Nepal have con- To further strengthen the students’ chances on tinually awarded the children‘s village the the job market, we began to offer vocational Foreword page 3 highest rating - an A rating. guidance. Today with help from a partner in Nepal – Career Disha Nepal (CDN) – we prepare A word from Primary Focus Footprints pages 4 -11 Nestled within the grounds of the village an young adults for the Nepalese job market (see Christiane Karsch, elementary school has been established. The page 25). member of the board of About the FNH and FWHC pages 12 –15 primary goal is not only to give a first-rate ed- the FNH since 2012 ucation. More importantly it concentrates on Furthermore members of the FWHC and FNH News from the pages 16 - 23 helping children traumatized from losing their have also made contact with many villagers. Children’s Village parents and often living on the streets. Indi- Together this reconnaissance has given rise to vidual mentoring is part and parcel of this pro- “sustainable footprints.” Scattered across Ne- News from the pages 24 - 30 gram as well as frequent teacher training. This pal are small efforts to help a particular village Youth Hostel year Ingrid Patzsch was again there this year with a specific problem. Detailed in pages four aiding local teachers (see page 23). to eleven are descriptions of some of these Fund-raising efforts pages 31- 33 projects. Increasingly the FWHC and the whole project Information and closure pages 34 - 35 are becoming more independent. More and My wish is that we all keep up the effort and re- more, decisions are made on the ground in main engaged in these valuable projects in Nepal. Photo above and on title page: Nepal. We are thrilled to see that thanks to ini- For me, I am proud and happy at being in so a “Hiking for a better life” (see page 9) tiatives taken from colleagues in the Children’s dynamic caring group of fellow travelers. One that Village and in the Youth Hostel, the standard of spreads good will near and far. This newsletter be- Photo below: living has increased (see page 14). gins with our latest, most recent exciting efforts, In the Children’s village “sustainable footprints.” “Who can hold their breath the longest?” Only half of Nepal has access to electricity. Our solution was to set up a clean photovoltaic Wishing you and your family a healthy, happy and Dear reader, a humble note of caution: system in the village. It provides all the pow- productive new year, we are a non profit, voluntary organization; er needed for living and learning; the village is editorial mishaps may occur. now energy independent. Christiane Karsch Cologne

Page 2 Newsletter December 2018 FOREWORD Page 3 Reconstruction, well building, efficient and sustainable agriculture, education – Nepal is in need of FOOTPRINTS them all. The FNH and FWHC DEVELOPMENTAL ASSISTANCE are both on the front STRAIGHT ACROSS NEPAL lines lending a hand in various projects

Along with our central two projects in Pokhara and Kathmandu, increasingly we are leaving sustainable footprints across Development cooperation for 2 Nepal. Discussed here are 11 examples and a report of a three schools in the vicinity of “the hostel” sponsored “Hike for a Better Life.” Experience how our former children are now helping to develop The three schools in and around Dukuchhap in far the costs have come to roughly 27,000 Euros. A villages. By giving the villagers hope, they Lalitpur District were partly destroyed from the new roof was installed on the Shree Chanda Devi help prevent migration to a life of earthquake. The Chitra Kumari Primary School School for 13,000 Euros. The roof to the Indra Ka- destitution in Kathmandu. received a completely new building from the FNH mal Primary School needed repairs and this came consisting of prefabricated units. As the school to 1,900 Euros. Instruction has now resumed at all rests on a slope, the latter was strengthened. So of the schools. 9 4 8 7 Retaining wall for the 10 6 3 5 Mangala Devi school in Bhode 11 1 2 On recommandation of Dewan Rai, the request of the protective fence, voracious goats and cows are 3 the Mangala Devi School in the Danakuta Ditsrict prevented from eating off the young shoots. In ad- reached us to stop the soil erosion at their school. dition our funds enabled a large rainwater collec- We have actively financed a large retaining wall as tion tank and drinking water supply for the school. well as the planting of fruit trees with a protec- Alexander Schmidt visited the project last year. tive fence around the school grounds. Thanks to © OpenStreetMap, openstreetmap.org

Succesful village development 4 1 Helping to develop the in Singdi mountainous village Padgaunbeshi Many years ago we started to develop the village connected to Pokhara via a road and new hous- After the latest earthquake in Nepal, nine homes Schmidt was in Nepal as the earthquake hit and Singdi in Lamjung district. With hydropower gen- es are being built The village wirh 2400 habitants were flattened in this village in the district of Kavre shortly after he visited the village. In addition to erating 40 kilowatts, with toilets and showers in received 5,000 Euros from the FNH last year for Palanchowk. Each of these home owners received rebuilding homes, the school Sarawoti Elementary all the houses, a health-post, a computer lab in another water supply. Singdi has become a suc- a princely sum of 2,000 Euros to rebuit. The vil- School received 500 Euros for new teaching ma- the school, the village has become more attractive cessful village development project. lagers’ response was overwhelming. Alexander terial. and has been growing ever since. Now Singdi is

Page 4 Newsletter December 2018 FOOTPRINTS Page 5 Tapping a spring and channeling the water 6 km to a water tank secures a self-sufficient existence. 5 Village development Water project 6 in the Makalu Region in a mountain village

That a power supply and education are existen- heavy turbine for that 8 KW hydroelectric power What do you do without water? In 2015 the earth- We took up the necessary construction and repair tial can be seen in what transpired in the village of devisce had to be flown in with a helicopter. 8 KW quake cut off the water supply of a village in costs in order to ensure the villagers could take Ropesa and Tashigaun in the Sankuwasabha Dis- should provide enough power for both villages. Sindhupalchwok district, a village high up in the care of themselves. Agriculture here is traditional: trict in Makalu. Work on the micro-grid continues; the initial bill mountains. Nothing was left, the spring, the 6 oxen yoked to wooden plow, women following be- for transportation and initial grid work has cost km channel and the water tank on the other end. hind sowing seed. For 15,000 Euros we were able to rebuild the pri- 25,000 Euros. Surprisingly, villagers have commit- Without water, farming was no longer possible. mary school. Shortly afterwards, there were al- ted themselves to covering 25% of the expenses most twice as many pupils as before. The school is themselves. Either they’ve rolled up their sleeves in Ropesa, the village that Alexander Schmidt had and offered their labor, or donated material, or visited two years ago.It so far from any roads that helped with fundraising. By making it their project, logistics pretty much came to a standstill. Instead a village becomes more attractive, and more im- school furniture had to be constructed in situ. The portantly young adults are more motivated to stay. Over 100 pupils are Villagers are contented in their new completely involved in classrooms rebuilding the school. Reconstruction and development of the The children are 7 happy and grateful. elementary school in the mountain village Ramche With a new school many more children Of all the districts struck by the earthquake, it was fall of 2015. In this district the village Ramche had come to lessons. Gorkha that was damaged the most. Alexander its elementary school flattened. With 15,000 Euros Schmidt and Chandra Sunar, former healthcare the FNH got the school up and running; over 100 assistant at the children’s village, were there in the pupils attend.

Women of the BPW Club pass over a donation for toys and other material Full-day kindergarten 8 in Pokhara’s industrial park

One challenge facing working mothers in Nepal is out. Toys, mattresses, a TV, clothes, furniture and what to do with their toddlers. In Pokhara’s indus- dishware – the 1,000 Euros the FNH donated went trial zone the local Business Professional Women a long way. In 2017 Alexander Schmidt visited the Club (BPW) has set up a full-day kindergarten near institution and reported the children are well taken to where women are working. FNH too is helping care of and the mothers over the moon.

Page 6 Newsletter December 2018 FOOTPRINTS Page 7 Clean drinking water for pupils and teachers

A note of thanks from the school director of the Jay Lord Buddha Public School

9 Clean drinking water for the Hike for Jay Lord Buddha Public School in Thakurdwara a Better Life

The majority of Nepalese live on the plains, the school with 500 children revealed the dire situa- It’s March 2018. For a well mixed group of 14 grips with an unknown rather exotic land not as Therai; unfortunately the quality of water is mis- tion. 2,300 Euros financed a large water tank and a travelers it is the start of an adventure. Under the tourists but as neighbors. Individually occasion- erable. FNH members Ingrid and Frank Patzsch top quality system to filter pumped well water. The banner “Hike for a Better Life,” this intrepid group ally they have come to their limits both physically from Chemnitz made contact with the school system covers the daily needs of all schoolchildren was about to sally forth for two weeks in the land and emotionally but as a group they stand togeth- in Thakurdwara in Bardia District. A visit to the and teachers. of the Himalaya. First was a five-day sponsored er. They learn how little is needed to decidedly hike organized by the FNH and teamtischer GmbH improve the life of a village or community; they through remote mountain villages in Parbat Dis- experience what does and doesn’t work. Ultimate- Due to a lack of trict in the west. Moreover they visited our Chil- ly they have learned to become acquainted with funding, building dren’s’ Village and Youth Hostel. strangers who took them in impartially and with stalled. At least open arms. For a moment both have forgotten instruction now can The goal of this unusual journey was to get to un- how wide a chasm there is between their different take place on the derstand the local people and their lives. As well, worlds. ground floor participants of the hike wished to learn which projects most urgently needed supporting and where Kathmandu: Building an elementary school the biggest bang for donated money would be. chaos, orderliness and hope 10 The rationale behind this persuasion was that an in a Chepang village aid project will only be sustainable when both do- For a European Kathmandu comes across like nor and receiver have a mutual solid feeling. something in a fantasy film. It’s a Moloch of six A Swiss medical doctor living and working in Ne- build and refurnish the elementary school. Since or more million inhabitants without street names, pal, Ruth Gonseth, was the one who made contact November 2018 instruction has resumed on the For this rough and ready, cobbled together group, without traffic rules. Thousands of honking, toot- with a school in a Chepang village south of Tandi ground floor. the Nepal journey leaves an imprint consummate ing, blaring, beeping horns are heard from myri- in Chitwan District. 5,000 Euros is helping to re- and deep. To a degree participants have come to ad mopeds, cars, trucks and Tuktuks all fighting

Parbat Banskarka 100 assembled Distrikt Salija bed frames for an Beni Langdi emergency shelter 5 day sponsored for flood victims Tangle hike through Mohoriya Parbat District 11 Flood victims receive 100 bunk beds in the Nayapul Antadoya Chepang Emergency Shelter by Tandi Pokhara

Ruth Gonseth, the Swiss doctor mentioned above people were especially hard hit by the monsoon Kathmandu who has long worked in Nepal, also came into deluge in the summer of 2017. Shelter was desper- contact with the flood victims among the Chepang. ately needed. The FNH donated 10,000 Euros for

The Chepang remain today hunters and gathers 100 beds in the Antadoya Chepang shelter. © OpenStreetMap, in the forests of the Chitwan District. These poor openstreetmap.org

Page 8 Newsletter December 2018 FOOTPRINTS Page 9 In Tangle seniors enjoy Tangle construction site: High above in the mountains western cigarettes water tank and connections lie Tangle and Mohariya

Power line tangle in Kathmandu

to squeeze through the often narrow enormously der Schmidt, the fourteen trekkers visit disparate nearby. Food is cooked over open fires by wom- be an unadorned undersized gesture that can lead Below: dusty streets and lanes. Kathmandu is an organ- hamlets in a region that seldom sees a stranger, en in the hamlet. Ubiquitous are meals of rice and from chaos to a better life. A school uniform, a The hikers arrive at the ism run riot, an exuberant growth of diminutive let alone a tourist. Politely put, the infrastructure lentils (Dal Bhat) along with various vegetables or woman who tenderly combs your hair at an or- FWHC Youth Hostel in traders doing business on streets that never will be is rudimentary. There may be power and aston- possibly a freshly butchered wee chicken. phans’ compound, clean water or a chair for every Kathmandu finished and buildings with slap- ishingly at least a 3-G net, still child in a classroom – that’s the fundamental ap- HIKE FOR dash power lines. Monks with the marks of the 2015 earth- The Children’s Village: a home proach of the FNH and FWHC. Together with just A BETTER With a small donation one iPhones sit among uncountable quake are evident. Everywhere. a little a lot can be put into motion and a better LIFE can click on the link from sleeping dogs. Splendid tem- Everything is lacking. Without A change of scene: the girls and boys in the FWHC future can take wings.” Christiane Karsch ples and shrines peek out from outside help little can be re- Children’s Village in Bhakunde-Pokhara excitedly Frank Schmidt mountains of garbage and the [email protected] paired. Water supply is a mess; greet the arrival of the hikers in their school uni- Christian Sutter ruins of the 2015 earthquake schools and communal centers forms. Children take each guest by the hand and members of that merry band to view a documentary that surround them. Nothing are heaps of rubble. Nepal is proudly show their simple but clean rooms. They of brothers and sisters in the of the “Hike for a Better Life” appears to be finished. And yet, facing an existential moment. play soccer together and exchange addresses. The “Hike for a Better Life” by Adrian Draschoff. and yet, most everything func- Do these communities have a bugle isn’t blown by the daily reveille but there tions remarkably well. The city future together? The threat is is a roll call and the assembled children do sing. may be loud and chaotic but still it is saturated palpable: if the villagers lose hope then as with Uniforms, song, files in formation at parade rest, with Buddhist serene imperturbability and Hindu so many other developing nations, the young and rallying cry – reveille in the Children’s Village may rituals. hardy move to the city leaving the old and frail be- look martial to the outsider but to barely devel- hind. With burgeoning populations, cities’ misery oped Nepal it comes across as ordered and struc- Nepalese affability often keeps at bay the deso- increases as well. tured, and in that comforting. The beginning of a late situation. Everyone has time, everyone is un- better world. wearied, no one appears aggressive or frustrated. Here out in the country, a Nepal that once was, Strangers find Nepalese fair-minded and open. the kindliness is overwhelming. Everywhere the Take away for participants Rarely will a Nepali gaze upon a tourist with envy respective rural communities welcome the group or desire. One feels safer than in Paris or the Co- with floral wreaths and blessings. Instead of being “The people that we met in Nepal aren’t starving. logne Central Station. quid pro quo, a thankfulness dependent on aid to They radiate contentment, perhaps even to the be received, most often villagers demonstrate a point of being happy. If that is the case, then what The mountains truly felt concern for members of the “hike for a is needed to achieve a respectable and dignified Hike for a Better Life better life.” life? What then is needed so that youth don’t flee and pursue their luck in the city? On this “Hike for a For five days the intrepid band of hikers is under- The hikers bed down in private quarters with vil- Better Life” we have experienced close up and per- way through the Parbat Region. Along with their lagers. That means either sharing a two-bed hut or sonal that the small things can change the world guides Laxmi Gurung and her husband Alexan- conking out in a stable with water buffalo sleeping for many people. More astounding, in Nepal it can

Page 10 Newsletter December 2018 FOOTPRINTS Page 11 Large photos left: Small photos right: First work and Certificates for Martin Tischer then the film and Ingrid Patzsch

12. GENERAL MEETING OF MEMBERS 30 JUNE 2018 IN MOERS

This year the Members’ Meeting was held in LOFT47 of the firm teamtischer GmbH. Treasurer 1. That unbelievable 1.2% figure has membership fee of €30 a year. This fee Both conference rooms and catering were courtesy of Martin Tischer. At the meeting’s Marco Hanßmann’s report only been possible due to the lauda- is very low compared to other organisa- conclusion a convivial grill party was held on the patio and the film “Hike for a Better ble efforts of the unsalaried, voluntary, tions. Life” (the film from the March 2018 sponsored hike) was shown. With a series of clearly laid-out graphics board members and the support of Marco Hanßmann summarized the solid umpteen helpers. Still our end goal is to At the assembly the increase from 30 Chairman Alexander Schmidt “Children’s Village” and the “Youth Hos- financial state of the FNH. 1.2% is what have 100% of donations go to Nepal. to 50 Euros was unanimously accepted. opened the meeting and thanked tel.” For twenty-two years the group the FNH has in administrative costs. The increase will help to strengthen our the members for their ongoing support has been making its presence in Nepal 2. As we have expanded we are efforts. You can cancel your member- above that is above and beyond the known in a positive way. At the moment The mid to long term goal is to use bumping up against boundaries here in ship at any time by the end of the year call of duty. Second on the agenda was 83 children live in the Children’s Vil- German membership fees to cover Germany. At times we need profession- by contacting Marco Hanßmann (marco. a commemoration for those who have lage in Pokhara and 15 young adults at 100% of the costs. At that point 100% al expertise which we do not have and [email protected]). It is some- passed on. Afterwards Alex presented Kathmandu’s Youth Hostel. As of June of every penny donated will flow to Ne- must pay for. thing we would very much regret. certificates of appreciation to Martin 2018 22 Nepalese colleagues are work- pal. As membership has grown in the 3. Dr. Sabrina Beck UND ANERKENNUNG Tischer and to Ingrid Patzsch (see page ing full-time and 11 part-time with past years to 350 members, that goal is Since the founding of the FNH has HerzlichenAn Dank 23). Ingrid had again this year led a these projects. without reach. held the line and never increased the liebe Ingrid Patzsch für deinenMartin grossartigen ehrenamtlichenTischer einsatz und die hervorragendefür herausragendes Durchführung Engagement der Lehrertrainings several week long teacher training pro- und diezur großzügige Fortbildung Unterstützung der Lehrerinnen des und FNH Lehrer und FWHC sowieunserer unserer Grundschule gemeinsamen im FWHC Projekte Kinderdorf in Nepal. in Pokhara-Bhakunde, Nepal gram at the Children’s Village. Children’s Village Reelection Yet again, the Nepalese authorities have of the board Four key issues were discussed: the given the village an A rating confirming Der Vorstand des FNH need to increase membership contribu- the high standards of the living condi- All members of the board stood for ree-

NEPALNEPAL | |FWHC FWHC GERMANY | FNH tion to €50, the chairman’s report, the tions as well as the educational facilities. lection and were unanimously returned treasurer’s report, and new election of to their functions. board members. Youth Hostel Alexander Schmidt Gründer und Vorsitzender des FNH Moers, 30. Juni 2018 Unfortunately the street in front of the Important information Alexander Schmidt’s hostel should be widened and hence for our members report the hostel partly demolished. As things move slowly in Nepal, there have not Along with the invitation for the mem- Alexander brought the members up to been concrete efforts to realize these bers’ assembly came an explanation date on all three of the group’s pro- goals. The Youth Hostel was painted in of three reasons why the membership The old and new jects, “Footprints” (see pages 4-11), the the spring of 2018. contribution is being increased: board of the FNH

Page 12 Newsletter December 2018 FNH AND FWHC Page 13 A HIGHER STANDARD OF LIVING IN THE CHILDREN’S VILLAGE AND “HOSTEL”

Whoever grows up in a clean and well-tended environment carries pitches in to harvest the large crop of children learn extemporaneous speak- scoured. Neither plate nor pot had a this imprint through his or her life. That is one of the most important vegetables. ing, singing and dancing in public. For speck of grime either before or after- founding principles of the Children’s Village, one that has followed that purpose we even have a stage in wards. Flowers were even on the table. us for years, and is one that has led to the government authorities The children learn a bit of farming, and the village which is regularly used. At awarding the village the highest mark of A. carry compost in their baskets as they the Hostel the youth have one year of In job interviews applicants look the know how it helps with growth. career coaching and they learn the ba- interviewer direct in the eye with con- Above: All the children entrusted to us iron. Our house matron are not employ- sics in handling electrical systems as fidence all the while explaining their a green oasis in the live in the Children’s Village and ees for the children and youth. Quite For a few months now we have de- well as working with wood and metal. motives and strengths. They don’t pull Children’s Village provides the Youth Hostel in neat homes. After the opposite. They engage our children ployed a wash machine in each of the a cap over their face as is typical in Ne- fresh vegetables and fruit the earthquake damage was repaired in in every activity. Daily the children help four children’s houses for the laundry of Is this not a bit of overkill? pal. In other words they leave a good Kathmandu the Hostel was newly pain– with cooking, gardening, cleaning of the youngest. Children under six years impression in any exchange. Below: ted. Doesn’t it look nice? (photo left) kitchen and dining room; commenda- can’t wash for themselves and it is as– The resounding answer is no! Quite the our Youth Hostel bly they wash their clothes at the wash king too much for the matrons to do opposite, we continue to try to improve I have never met former children or their newly painted Televisions are in both facilities and at basins in front of each house. Even the this daily chore. the child’s and youth’s surroundings. children wearing tatty clothes. They the Hostel is a small radio in which to youngest sweep before the house. Con- Here are a few examples of the impact put everything in motion to keep the hear as well as see sports events and trary to many other Nepalese children, Building and strengthening on the later life of ‘our’ children. accustomed standard of living. Indeed educational programs. ours always wear clean clothes, even self-esteem holding these standards is hugely mo- when playing. They receive very good Whenever time allows I visit the youth tivating to maintain this standard. In the The foundation is laid medical care, and learn everything A sound formal education is what we in their rooms, apartments or hous- beginning, with a few individuals, nat- in the Children’s Village about personal hygiene as well as offer at the school in the village from es. What strikes me immediately is the urally there are a few mishaps but soon keeping it up. pre-school to the 5th grade. Afterwards cleanliness. Recently I was invited to all adapt to this well-regulated lifestyle. All rooms have spacious beds, ward- all children and youth transfer to sec- a meal of Dal Bhat with those who are Everyone of our “grandchildren” attend robes for clothes, and an iron for the Well-manicured flowers bloom every- ondary school in Pokhara or Patan near studying in Kathmandu. After the meal good schools. school uniforms. By us children learn to where and in the garden everyone Kathmandu. To promote self-esteem pots, stove and tiled wall meticulously Alexander Schmidt

STAFF AND CHILDREN VILLAGE SCHOOL HOSTEL TOTAL VILLAGE POKHARA HOSTEL KATHMANDU, HIGHER TOTAL IN OUR PROJECTS 2018 AND HINTER- BHAKTAPUR EDUCATION LAND*

16 staff 9 staff 6 staff 31 staff 86 children 20 children 15 children 2 children 1 youth 124 children members members members members* Number of staff 17 women Number of children 41 girls 7 girls 8 girls 1 girls 57 girls November 2018 14 men November 2018 45 boys 13 boys 7 boys 1 boys 1 male 67 boys

* 20 staff members are fulltime, 11 are part-time * DAMAULI, BESHISHAHAR, PALPA, JHAPA DISTRIKT, BIRATNAGAR, DHULIKEL, CHITWAN

Page 14 Newsletter December 2018 FNH AND FWHC Page 15 NEWS FROM THE A HEARTY WELCOME TO OUR SIX NEW ADDITIONS CHILDREN’S VILLAGE IN THE CHILDREN’S VILLAGE

LESION GHARTI MAGAR ASMITA GHARTI MAGAR ASHIM NEPAL LAMSAL KUMAR KANDEL CHABIRAJ PARIYAR BIMALA SARKI (NEPALI) male, born 19.11.2013 girl, born 26.12.2011 male, born 30.03.2008 male, born 30.03.2009 male, born 14.08.2012 girl, born 20.11.2004 (date fixed by authorities) (date fixed by authorities)

The father of Asmita and Lesion died Ashim’s parents and birthplace are Kumar’s parents are mentally disabled Chabiraj’s father died of cardiac ar- Bimala Sarki’s family lives in Sindhuli. four years ago of polio. The death of unknown. In 2009 the Pokhara po- and the father abandoned the family. rest. He has three siblings. The mother, Upon the death of the mother, the father her husband led to a psychological dis- lice found the roughly nine month old As with Ashim, Kumar was also taken though, works hard as a day laborer walked out on his three kids. First Bi- order and the abandonment of her four Ashrim on the street and brought him to the home that the authorities lat- and is unable to care for the family. mala was accommodated in a children’s children. The 15 year old sister lives to a children’s home of another charity. er closed. Since his mother was una- Pokhara’s Lekhnath Metropolitan Ad- home of a Hong Kong project, later, with the uncle and aunt; one brother is As the home, however, did not fulfill the ble to care for him, Kumar landed on ministration-18 ferried Chabiraj to us. though, the authorities intervened. The in a home in Kathmandu. The District established conditions, the government the street. A woman from Tanahun Office of Juvenile Care requested that Child Welfare Board (DCwB) in Baglung closed the facility. In May 2018, the dis- Damauli registered Kumar with the we take Bimala in. brought us the seven year old Asmita trict’s Office of Juvenile Care intervened Office of Juvenile Care which then last and her five year old brother Lesion. in the matter and the boy came to us spring entrusted him in our custody. where we now have become Ashim’s family.

QUOTE FROM A VISITOR’S REPORT

“On special occasions there’d be an ice- with the children. Verily the children’s cream party or Nepalese dumplings for village has developed into a small oasis.” everyone. It certainly impressed me how cordially, open, friendly and con- Dr. Sabrina Beck siderate everyone was with each other Frankfurt and how quickly visitors were integrated. The children are doing very well, the In Spring 2018 Sabrina was house matrons have a wonderful bond in Nepal and visited our projects

The complete visitor report can be found under https://nepalhilfe.de/index.php/besucherberichte.html

Page 16 Newsletter December 2018 NEWS FROM THE CHILDREN’S VILLAGE Page 17 36 senior citizen from the old folks’ home WITH MUCH JOY YOUNG AND O L D visiting the children’s village LEARN FROM EACH OTHER

Normally, in a family along with parents children have grandparents. All learn together. hale senior citizens to the bedridden, hands and showed the elders the vil- for religious festivals to offer our chil- In a joyful kindly manner the elderly pass on their sagacity. In turn children delight the those weak and slowly departing. The lage. From the first moment everyone dren their blessing. old with their playful shenanigans. children find the visits very important in enjoyed the encounter. developing their social competence. At the end of the day a group photo Exactly this mutually beneficial home in Pokhara, Old Shelter Home. The children and the elderly had ani- was taken (see above) and packages of relationship was missing in our Until recently, Pokhara, with its almost In May of this year another important mated conversations and ate creamed fruit juice that the elderly brought along Children’s Village, as grandpa and 600,000 inhabitants, had only four step was taken. All sprightly seniors rice from a huge pot. Our girls combed were distributed to the children. Actu- grandma are nary to be found. Children homes. The extended family in Nepal is were invited to visit children’s village. old ladies’ silver hair and adored them ally, the seniors had wished to remain measure their strength among them- still the norm. At 1 p.m. a rented bus with 36 senior with flowers. For the guests a play was only one hour but ended up staying selves and watch as their life’s elixir citizens ventured forth direction village. performed and at the end everyone until to 5 p.m. A successful day where bubbles to the surface. They never truly For about a year now our children regu- The oldest was over 100. How would danced to cool music in the school- our kids briefly had a granddad and get to know old people. Laxmi Gurung, larly visit the home, sing, dance, cook- the meeting go? How would young and yard. At no point was reticence an issue. grandma. The next visit is already be- board member on the FWHC in Nepal ing, and helping out there with cleaning old interact? For some long moments In fact the opposite occurred with the ing planned. recognized this deficit. Three years up the grounds. The children experi- our colleagues’ imagination ran wild. children seeking close contact. The el- ago she made contact with an old folks’ ence the full gamut, from hearty and The kids, though, simply took wrinkly derly would like to come to the village Laxmi Gurung Babita bringing Pokhara delectable refreshments for the elderly

QUOTATION FROM A VISITOR’S REPORT

“Also the children soon realize there is ter has gained an important impetus hardly a difference between their lives in how she shapes her life. We are very and the daily flow in our family. In lieu appreciative.” of parents a dedicated team gives a Kathatrina Prünte structure: where responsibility, disci- Bonn Bad Godesberg pline and independence are learned. As well space is created for the individu- Katharina and her husband al to flourish. After a three week visit and their eight year old daughter were at the Children’s Village our lives have at the Children’s Village in December 2017 been enriched; especially our daugh-

The complete visitor report can be found under https://nepalhilfe.de/index.php/besucherberichte.html

Page 18 Newsletter December 2018 NEWS FROM THE CHILDREN’S VILLAGE Page 19 Dennis explains how the mini-computer calliope is a programmable wonder WHEN DREAMS CALLIOPE BECOME REALITY THE MINI-COMPUTER IS COMING

We had a dream the kids and me: there ty with almost 100 children and much staff needs What is Calliope? Originally the muse of Everyone is interested even enthusiastic. With a should be a place for children, teachers and an equally large room, an auditorium as it were. poetry in Greek mythology, it is now a little practice and the right program Calliope me staff where ever yone could go in any season, in any mini-computer that is child’s play to learn to pro- tamorphosed into an instrument, pocket calcula- weather and be happy together. A place to cele- Fitting the purpose was an already existing hard- gram. That’s something the children in Nepal also tor, meteorological station or disco mirror ball. brate, to have contests, birthdays and other events ly used old building next to the school that had wanted to try out. Six devices awoke the interest of to which all residents could be present. Naturally been used occasionally for homework. To realize teacher and pupil. In a test phase participants take https://calliope.cc/ there should be a stage where the children could our dream required much work and more money. the first steps into the digital world with help from dance, sing, give speeches, and stage performan Still it wasn’t an impossible dream if our angels an internet platform developed from the Fraun- In addition, the teachers enjoy testing the pro- ces. A place for learning, where on a flat screen pitched in. A heartfelt thank you to Italian Bank hofer Institute. www.iais.fraunhofer.de grams with their pupils preparing them for a di films and sports events could be shown. When it Credito Fondiario with its truly generous donation. gital future. The children have fun rained karate and gymnastic could be practiced A dream became reality! The new room, or bet- Dennis and Lena brought the devices with them programming here, as well as meeting locals. A large communi- ter said, auditorium, now stands ready for action. and familiarize the children with the technology. A festive opening Patrizia Bisi Rome

QUOTATION FROM A VISITOR’S REPORT

“Without fail, in just a few days of my visit I get to know so many individu- “In the Youth Hostel the residents were ther did they know the song or the Jazz als who touch a chord. Some can still waiting for me with an inquisitive gaze. steps but they threw themselves into it laugh despite having little. Others are My portrait-CV was on the bulletin and had a humongous good time!” so concerned for the good of the child board much like a wanted poster detail- they go far beyond what can be termed ing my family and my hobbies. My pas- Hannah Hoppe teaching.” sion for dancing served me well. Shortly Riga Anja Oebels after an introduction the boys and girls In July 2017 Hanna visited Munich wanted to learn a dance from me. Nei- the Youth Hostel and Children’s Village Anja visited the projects in August 2018

The complete visitor report can be found under https://nepalhilfe.de/index.php/besucherberichte.html The complete visitor report can be found under https://nepalhilfe.de/index.php/besucherberichte.html

Page 20 Newsletter December 2018 NEWS FROM THE CHILDREN’S VILLAGE Page 21 Kumari organized the second Alumni meeting. In between she has become a teacher at our Children’s Village.

ALUMNI FROM THE AT THE CHILDREN’S VILLAGE AND YOUTH HOSTEL TEACHER TRAINING SCHOOL OF THE OFFER EACH OTHER MUTUAL SUPPORT CHILDREN’S VILLAGE

Group photo from left: The FWHC (Forum for the Welfare of Him- and ‘hostel’ there is a sense of solitary sadness. We For the third time, from 26 February to Together with Kumari, the youngest teacher and alayan Children) was founded in 1995 with miss every single moment there, missing the care- March 23, 2018, I carried out an elemen- ex-pupil of the Children’s Village, we crafted a Basanta Lamichhane one goal in mind: the betterment of orphans, free moments of childhood that we experienced tary teacher training program. My focus in this one-hour lesson to demonstrate to teacher and Madan Bastola street children, and others in dire need (see pp 16- there. teacher formation was on those children who guest the learning possibilities. All of us also en- Japendra Gurung 17). We, the residents and pupils of the Children’s needed more time and individual help in learning. joyed ourselves in buying different school mate- Balaram Adhikari Village and Youth Hostel in Kathmandu, were re- Ergo we began to search for our ‘siblings’ and use Still as they say in Nepal, “Same, same, but differ- rial and new sport equipment. At the end of the Rahool Lamichhane cipients of that ambition. social networks, to link up friends with friends. Ul- ent,” what actually transpired was different. program we established who was responsible for Rekha Bista timately we wished to launch a club of ex-students what material and what were realistic goals to fos- Sangita Gurung After the 10th grade, and with the support of FNH/ under the auspices of the FWHC. ‘Siblings’ of var- First the teachers had a chance to ask questions ter learning. Sagar GC FWHC, we began to structure our own lives. By ious grades, Raju Tamang, Madan Bastola and me, and relay concerns which I then oriented the pro- Rudraa Gurung now we could to a degree pursue our own aptitude, Kumari Gurung, founded the FWHC’s Ex-Students’ gram to. Although I wasn’t able to offer a recipe On a two-day trekking tour I had a chance to get Nobin Adhikari our own way; after all that is how we were raised at Club. In the meantime many of the former ‘siblings’ but from my experience I could offer various pos- to know the teachers in a different perspective. I Dil Bahadur Khadka the village and ‘hostel.’ now participate. Our club is motivated to support sibilities in which to approach the children. There had much joy in being able to share the ideas and Bimat Gurung and bind those children leaving the village. In the was little theory but much time spent discuss- experience with one and all. Ingrid trying out a Binaya Adhikari As we are now scattered throughout Nepal and future we hope to join the scrum with the FWHC so ing possibilities with practical material. Together new instructional occasionally to the four winds abroad, it is difficult that we can give a little back of that which we were we differentiated the categories of fast and slow Ingrid Patzsch game with the to meet together or with friends. Sometimes now allowed to enjoy. learners. Chemnitz teachers having left the warmth and security of the village Kumari Gurung Pokhara

FINALLY: A PROPER ROAD LE ADING TO THE CHILDREN’S VILLAGE

When in 1997 we purchased the helped defray the costs a tad. Still the to the city center with a wide asphalted property for our Children’s Village proceeds never could cover the repair street. As residents we paid 3,200 Euros in Bhakunde, six kilometers from costs or building a conventional road. for a solid road that reached the village Pokhara’s portal, something offer than and continued on. All other residents the village was missing: a road. It was About a year ago under the auspices shared in the cost. One can now drive arduous but a committee tasked wild of a new federal political restructuring, from village to Pokhara center on a road road building managed to construct Pokhara expanded its territory. Our free of potholes. We hope this wonder- a somewhat improvised tarmac farm Children’s Village no longer belonged ful mint condition remains. track to the village and another 12 to Sarangkot municipality but district km down into the valley. A toll booth 18 Pokhara. Every ward was connected Alexander Schmidt

Page 22 Newsletter December 2018 NEWS FROM THE CHILDREN’S VILLAGE Page 23 NEWS FROM THE YOUTH HOSTEL

CAREER COUNSELING - ... IN NEW RESPLENDENCE DREAMS MEET REALITY

In 2006 we built our Youth Hostel in Kath- With the completion of grade 8 (District Le- hope that the path chosen for grades 11 and 12 mandu on our own property. The goal was vel/Primary School Graduation) our children will be taken into consideration when interviewing to accompany the youth as they left the Children’s leave the sheltered life in Pokhara and transfer to for job placement. Village and prepared to step out on the world’s the Youth Hostel in the nation’s capital in Kath- stage as a self-reliant adult. To sum up, after 12 mandu. There they continue their education in What assistance does the CDN offer? On posters youth years, thanks to the career guidance of the CDN grades 9 and 10 and prepare for the test leading to gather together (see next page), the project was bearing fruit. the SEE (Secondary Education Examination) Certif- In 12 sessions, youth learn to discover their indi- their individual icate. Due to the school system, the young people vidual interests, strengths and motivation, and are interests, strengths, In 2017 after the earthquake damage was repaired, have to decide after the 10th class on a career in individually coached by qualified trainers. Rath- motivation and skills the FWHC decided the complex needed painting. which they want to graduate to get a professional er than waiting for the diploma, this counseling At first we hesitated as the widening of street in intermediate diploma. However this is only offered begins immediately after the SEE certificate. The front of the building threatened to demolish the in few selected expensive private schools sooner young adults are coached in becoming front. Still the city’s grandiose plans may not be so adults the better they can match dream with reali- easily executed. And so in spring 2018 the Youth With the SEE Certificate in hand and depending on ty, i.e. technician rather than engineer. Hostel received a warm shade of red. It shines in their exam score, students then choose the spe- its new sheen. cific direction for grades 11 and 12. With good CDN gears itself to guidance on the non-academ- marks, one can strive for the intermediate diploma ic level. Participants are motivated to endeavor to the SLC (School Leaving Certificate). Unfortunate- find a profession that exists in Nepal and is real- The ‘hostel’ in ly successive Nepalese governments have lowered istically achievable. With this perspective a better new luster the requirements so this certificate has less draw- chance arises that one can and will stay in Nepal, ing power than before. Yearly 500,000 certificate employed. One doesn’t have to travel overseas and and our proud The doors to our holders search for employment. Frustrated at not ‘enslave’ themselves as an unskilled worker. residents woodworking, finding the job of their dreams, many youth try electrical and their luck abroad. How is career counseling conducted? metal bashing workshops also Seven years ago we launched career counseling We began this way were newly that builds on efforts in the Children’s Village to painted identify and encourage individual talent. As to the In grades 9 and 10 adolescents participate in 12 existing job market, we try to gently match dream workshops each three to four hours to discover with reality. For two years now we liaise with Ca- their potential and what their heart yearns for. In reer Disha Nepal (CDN), a professional career addition they are informed about roughly 300 pro- guidance organization in Kathmandu. fessions that exist in Nepal, employment outlook, the necessary qualifications, and what it costs to As much as social mores allow, all our young qualify. In an individual interview each juvenile will adults attempt the intermediate diploma. We truly receive one to three suggestions for a profession.

Page 24 Newsletter December 2018 NEWS FROM THE YOUTH HOSTEL Page 25 Our initiative supplemented job training What do we hope to achieve?

CAREER Along with theory, the workshops and individual It would be wonderful if all our charges would COUNSELING - DREAMS advice, comes the practical perspective: visits to choose professions that tests show they have an MEET companies. As actual on-the-job training takes aptitude for and move seamlessly from school REALITY place after class 12 (the diploma), the graduates to full employment. Such expectations, though, participate in another job coaching weekend. Or- would be unrealistic. Especially in Nepal, a general ganizing this is time-consuming as after the 10th mentality of living for today exerts a tremendous grade the teenagers leave the ‘hostel’ and are hold. Choosing a line of work and finding a work- FRAMEWORK OF CDN’S strewn across Nepal. Successful job preparation, place is something that lies in the future. And this OCCUPATIONAL COUNSELING though, is extremely important and cornerstone outlook is only one of many factors influencing for a thriving independent existence. Taking part the young adult’s future. We can only have faith in the weekend seminar is therefore required for that the knowledge we instill and that is gained 1 Job market orientation 3 Competence Assessment on professions, training possibilities, an application for a FNH study stipend. will have a long-lasting subliminal impact. In light employees, jobs and much more that of the future, perhaps it may move someone to Being introduced to the 300 profes- Using 11 to 13 points, the youth are trainees can avail themselves of. What costs more actively taking matters in their own hands, sions available in Nepal in six sectors given individual assignments with are incurred? In any event, and not cynically meant, at least their tends to create an immediate ‘aha’ ef- various tasks and grade the outcome Individual career self-assurance should be given a boost. Chhabi Lal fect. Until then the participant’s van- themselves. 5 counseling Sixty Euros per person were paid in the school year Chetri’s report below corroborates our hope that tage point has been rather restricted. 2017-18 for career counseling. the CDN has a positive effect. Another important objective is to stress 4 Online Psychometrics All together all facets discussed above the consequences of choosing a wrong are brought together for analysis. Re- Irmgard Schlaeger profession.. An assessment instrument with more sults are distilled into three possible than a hundred questions help to di- professions and training approaches. 2 The individual’s future vulge the individual’s dominant per- Decisions, however, always remain with sonality traits which in turn will play a each individual. In this part the youth deal with the need decisive role in planning one’s profes- Career Disha Nepal (CDN) www. 2014 CDN works as a social business, to make tangible their interests, needs, sion and in the appropriate training. careerdishanepal.org is the first that is, original equity can be recouped abilities, talents and predilections by Important factors include level of moti- career counseling organization in Ne- but no more. After that social objectives writing their thoughts down in a work- vation, attention to detail, and the drive pal with an integrated approach. CDN are on the agenda. Ethical, ecological book. The workbook in turn becomes a to succeed. Many are surprised, some- developed the first data bank with in- and sustainable values take precedence. Venn Diagram as it were where trainer times proud, at discovering new fa formation on over 300 professions in CDN adapted a German model of ca- and youth map out a space between the cets of themselves. Always at hand are Nepal. A Nepalese organization, since reer counseling to the needs of Nepal. ideal and reality. personality tests, the CDN’s Databank

CHHABI LAL CHETRI’S WITH THE and values. An occupation profile was Butwal, Tamnagar. After completing the generated along with ten vocational three year program he will receive a di- CAREER DISHA NEPAL’S CAREER COACHING suggestions. Further discussion with ploma and can either enter the job mar- the trainer reduced this to three. Chha- ket or continue on and finish his bache- Now 20, Chhabi came rather late to With 17, Chhabi arrived at the ‘hostel’ to there was no school and had attended bi decided against medical study, opt- lor’s degree. At the moment Chhabi has our project at the age of eight. Sur- complete the 10 grade and get ready for 12 group sessions and one individual ing instead for a three-year automotive finished his second semester. prisingly fast he demonstrated he was his SEE (Secondary Education Examina- mentoring meeting. There he learned mechatronics technician program. His a sharp pupil. Early on it was clear to tion). It was in a workshop led by Career that there is short-term professional good grades on the SEE Exam as well Hearty appreciation goes to the CDN him that he wanted to study to become Disha Nepal (CDN) that he learned the training allowing him to more quickly as his Intermediate High School Degree which has helped not only Chhabi but a medical doctor, a goal that his grades true cost of medical study. Like a soap enter the workforce. He was introduced gave him entry as well as providing him others. Their occupational advice has showed was realistic. Similar to Germa- bubble his dream burst. to a variety of new professions and with a government stipend. helped strengthen young adults’ conny’s “closed number” restricted univer- various tools and technological meth- fidence and given them concrete ways sity admission system, grades in Nepal Chhabi had invested much time in the ods in order to discover a best match The program he attended was at the they can fashion their own effective ca- are existential in choosing a career. seminar, attending on Saturday when for his individual interests, strengths Korea Nepal Institute of Technology in reers. Irmgard Schlaeger

Page 26 Newsletter December 2018 NEWS FROM THE YOUTH HOSTEL Page 27 TECHNICAL 100 EURO PROJECTS TRAINING GIVE WINGS TO JUNIOR DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS (JDP )- AN ANALYSIS UNIQUE RAWAL

“Baby footprints” have been left picked up again to eight in 2018. We’ll was a scheme to buy a goat and rent it Unique Rawal lives in the Youth in 47 projects since 2011 that our report next year on what happened in out in order to generate income. Hostel, attends the 10th grade youth have put into operation in their 2018. and dreams of becoming a computer villages. Upon graduating grade 10 (in- Regardless of the graduating class technician. In this context he values the termediate level) each student receives Animal husbandry in Nepal is existen- some projects were more fashionable skilled trades training he received at the 15,000 Nepalese Rupees (which works tial, not only for self-sufficiency but for than others. 2011 and 2012 construc- training center. out to about 130 Euros). With these trade. For these reasons it is especial- tion projects were a hit and from 2016 funds the graduate is to develop his or ly popular with JDP recipients. Poultry only farming projects such as poultry “I would like to extend a word of ap- her own and put it into action. In the farming is tops (13 projects), generally and goats mostly for relatives in the preciation to all the colleagues of the beginning appropriated funds were first with the purchase of hens at (1,200 NR) youth’s birthplace. Sagar GC’s report FNH and FWHC for making possible set at 100 Euros. or chicks (75 NR) and/or the construc- (above and below) is one example. my fortnight’s training at the Olgapuri tion of a small chicken coop. Goats and Vocational Training School. I learned a The new designation Junior Develop- fodder (9) are next in line but carry a We would enjoy relating more of these great deal about electricity and other ment Project (JDP) makes clear each in- hefty price: 7,500 NR. Preferably the 100 Euro projects but information is mechanical skills. Unique Rawal dividual is responsible for development goat is pregnant. One time a cow was difficult to come by. After graduating and implementation of a project. They co-financed for a JDP project and an- from 10th grade, the adolescent leaves Also commendable were the workshops conceive of the goals, plan, carry it out other time a beehive was purchased the Youth Hostel and takes his life into in electrical equipment and wood and and complete a project audit complete (see the 2016 newsletter). his own hands. Often training and ed- metal working that our mentor Ratna with simplified cost accounting. ucation is not near to where the project organized on Saturdays and holidays. In Still sometimes a construction project transpires. Since 2018 an incentive has these shop floor training all tools and The level of participation has fluctuated. was on the agenda: ten times either a been added: an additional €75 if report material were provided that we needed In 2011 eleven young adults took part; toilet, solar panel, a residential lighting will be completed. We’ll see if and how in order to gather experience. that dropped to seven in 2012, plum- venture. Twice a greenhouse for toma- this plays out. meted to only three up to 2017 and toes was built. What didn’t work out We learned for example how to measure Irmgard Schlaeger electrical currents, how to slice cables correctly and splice them together, how Our adolescents like to wire switches and sockets. I am now to learn listening to in the position to instruct ninth graders radio music. Unique in the theoretical and practical aspects makes sure the of electrical systems. We tinkered with donated radios are SAGAR GC’S electrical applications. I made sure that always functioning. JUNIOR DEVELOPMENT PROJECT (JDP) my ‘pupils’ followed safety procedures. I am happy because I am able to teach I deeply appreciate all the assistance raising the chickens. Three times a day the basics and am also able to benefit offered by FNH and FWHC which helped the chickens were fed. I have to admit from our training.” me to realize my future. After graduat- raising animals is not as easy as I had ing with the SEE I used 15,000 NRs to thought; there are so many diseas- Unique Rawal design and construct a small chicken es. In the two months that I have tried Youth Hostel in Kathmandu CASH ASSISTANCE Amount PROJECT EXPENSES Amount farm. Thirty chicks were purchased and to care for these critters, seven chicks Received from FWHC Rs.12,000.00 30 Chicken Rs.6,900.00 released in a stall next to my moth- have died. Since then they receive daily POKHARA UND Food grains for chicken Rs.3,000.00 er’s house in Sarangkot, Kaski District. medication. After one year my goal is to UMLAND* 2 sacks of Bhus Rs.700.00 1 Doko Rs.400 While I was in Kathmandu studying fur- sell 20 chickens at 1,500 NRs each for a Nails, net, Wood Rs.1,000.00 ther, my mother and sister were busy profit of 30,000 NRs. Total Rs.12,000.00 Total Rs.12,000.00 Sagar GC

Page 28 Newsletter December 2018 NEWS FROM THE YOUTH HOSTEL Page 29 Samjhana already has won many medal, certificates and trophies

SAMJHANA SHAHI - OUR MOST SUCCESSFUL FUND-RAISING KARATEKA CAMPAIGNS

The Child Protection Office brought Sam- philosophical background of the art form and its On behalf of our projects in Nepal, above jhana and her twin sister Sapani Shabi from meaning as a way of life (Wikipedia). all on behalf the children in our project, we the Humla District to the Children’s Village in 2010 thank you all deeply for your heartfelt and after both parents died one after the other in 2009. This philosophy captures well Samjhana. Karate imaginative engagement. We wish high spir- Today Samjhana is fourteen. The girls also have has taken the stead of her parents in setting her its and much success for those undertaking an older brother and sister, two younger sisters as on a path. As no other in our projects Samjhana Advent fund-raising activities for our projects. well as two stepbrothers. has blown the competition out of the water, win- ing one competition after another. Just look at the Since her advent in the Village, Samjhana has been medals she’s won. In the meantime she has earned smitten by karate. Later in the Hostel in Kath- the black belt in Shito-Ryu karate and was des- mandu where she now lives with her twin sister ignated role model for orphans: see https:/www. her dedication remained. Karatedō (Japanese for khelkudmanch.com/news/765 in the Nepalese “way of the empty hand”) was earlier simply called sports news. Samjhana has another goal, to be a karate and even today is the most common desig- lieutenant in the army. With her discipline and am- nation. The addition of dō is used to designate the bition it should be a snap.

Gertrud knits almost - she is now a black belt in Shito-Ryu Ka everywhere lage named “Forum for the Welfare of Knitting socks for the Birthday Samjhana Shahi from Humla, Gothi rate. She has won dozens of medals in Himalayan Children” a common home Children’s Village donation lost her mother, father and her step district level, regional level and now in to orphan children like her in Pokhara. - mother in her early childhood. She national level competition also. At pres Our dear friend Gertrud Raviol seiz- to desired pattern. Another resourceful For a “triple birthday” in Heilbronn She was introduced to Shito-ryu karate es every quiet minute to knit socks, at activity under way for many years now family Schönherr asked guests for do- was born on 18th March 2004 to Late ent she is continuing her study and sport in the children’s village by Mr. Dhan home, on the way to the general meet- has been put into action the “Ettlinger nations rather than presents. A princely Barsha Bahadur Shahi (Father) and simultaneously. She wish to join second ing of members at Moers. Why? For our Women” to bake cakes and sell them at sum of €1,000 came in for the FNH’s - Bahadur Lama, Karate instructor in Late Janakala Shahi (Mother). Sam Lieutenant in army. Children’s Village! With an infinite zeal weekly markets and Nepal talks. projects in Nepal. - children’s village. With his inspiration jhana Shahi grew up in a children’s vil and perseverance Gertrud knits mountains of amazingly colorful socks. For All proceeds go to our children’s village. Both the FNH and FWHC in Nepal send a years now they are all sold at our Nepal A special loud hurrah to dear Gertrud wholehearted thanks. stand at various crafts markets such as from us all at the FNH and a softer hip- at the Ettlinger palace and the Advent hip hooray from all the children in Ne- Newspaper article Market in Karlsruhe. Gertrud will even pal, after all it is all for their benefit. https://www.khelkudmanch.com/news/765 take on individual assignments knitting

Whether in Germany, Nepal or elsewhere, our group is always in need of expert advice, legal, tax, architec- tural, structural engineering, etc.. If you have any idea we would love to hear from you. The contact person is Irmgard Schlaeger, [email protected]. She can also be reached by telephone at 0049 69 773 886.

Page 30 Newsletter December 2018 FUND-RAISING CAMPAIGNS Page 31 AY HD FUND-RAISING CAMPAIGNS T If you wish, we R shall publish news of I your birthday contribution in B the newsletter under the rubric Yoga for the Children’s Village in Nepal “donation campaigns.” If desired AT YOUR NEXT we can put in your name, amount of Every month I contribute an amount to the work out. As I am a member of the and at the same time help others here donation and the intended recipi BIRTHDAY the village. Still how could I raise more Maxen Youth Club I am able to use a in Maxen. That thought fills me with ent. We’d also be happy to put in funds for the FNH? I am an enthusias- room for my yoga group at the club vim and vigor when I first have to turn - WOULD YOU photos and text; limits of space, tic yoga practitioner and in my village for free. Each week I meet with others on the heat in the room in winter. My S though, may mean we have ALSO LIKE TO Maxen have launched a yoga group. who use yoga to stay fit. It is a won- dream is to yet again visit the Children’s N Everyone who participates donates derful feeling to be in the position to Village. to shorten or edit it. INVITE GUESTS something to the village at the end of do something for the children in Nepal Conny Himpel I O TO Maxen Müglitztal T DONATE ? D O N A

The FNH would love to use your donation in the new year for the following items:

Four residential buildings at Chil- dren’s Village have to be painted;

The caretakers’ rooms in the village are in need of new carpeting;

At the moment at the ‘hostel’ there is We are thrilled Children who have Donation box at Donations one common room for relaxing and watching TV, as well as for studying. with our soccer compassion the Dinova paint instead of gifts We are planning on extending one youngsters in the This summer I informed the elemen- factory in the town Celebrating my 60th birthday I asked wing of the ‘hostel’ for R&R (rest and tary school children in OGS Andreas my guests not to give a gift but rather relaxation); Children’s Village school (OGS stands for open all-day of Königswinter donate a few coins to Friends of Nepal Those in the sports club Back- school where in addition to instruc- My doctor’s office is decorated with e.V. (FNH). With 60 I have what I need We continue our efforts to help nang-Steinbach e.V. (e.V. means reg- tion in the morning there is adult su- posters of our Nepalese children and and don’t really need more possessions mountain villages hit by the earth- istered association) knows how soccer pervision in the afternoon). In my talk laid out with FNH brochures. A patient gathering dust. My idea was to help quake and still not completely mad the kids in the children’s village are. I introduced the pupils to the 80 chil- learned of our projects and spontane- others. As a member of the association I repaired. Our first priorities are When this summer, Lusitano Fernandes, dren in the Children’s Village, their care ously had the idea of putting up a dona- know that 99 cents of every Euro makes essential rebuilding, getting the a member of the sports club, won a takers and their teachers. This led to a tion box and photos at his work place, a it to those in need. At the restaurant school running and ensuring water, new set of children’s tricots, pants and donation campaign in which the pupils paint factory and outlet. He then began “Mühlentränke,” at “Assmanns Mühle” power and sanitation is functioning; socks in size 9-10 at a competition, he raised €400. During my discussion chil- to inform his customers of the FNH. a center for the old and dement, we immediately knew who he could make dren commented “I know how I’d feel if celebrated my birthday. There I intro- Also in remote mountain villages we very happy with the kit. The uniforms I didn’t eat for two days” or “sleeping In July he presented me with €1,000 duced the FNH. In what I called a prayer wish to persist with our ‘Footprints’ were dispatched with the next traveler in the woods is the pits, especially if it that he had collected. I’d like to compli- wheel (a donation box) we collected 885 program to improve infrastructure to Nepal and once there, were imme- rains.” Most responsive were migrant ment him for his initiative and send my Euros for the children of Nepal. I then and hence make such villages more diately deployed. Our boys are elated; children, those from Syria, Afghanistan, thanks to all those who had taken part. rounded-up the sum to 1,000 Euros attractive to live in. Our hope is that they pose here as a small token of ap- Africa, those who came to Germany as and passed it on to Alexander Schmidt young adults will stay put and not preciation for the donation. refugees and enjoy and value their life Dr. Fred Prünte for the FNH. migrate to big city shanty towns. here. The talk moved me. Norbert Pfeiffer Dr. Fred Prünte (IWES- Institute for Wind Energy and Energy Systems), Angelburg-Gönnern

Page 32 Newsletter December 2018 FUND-RAISING CAMPAIGNS Page 33 BRINGING IT TO A CLOSE

We have a kind request to make. The majority of Accounts management and members of the FNH board are in the labour force Educational Closing certificates of donation full-time and only work unpaid at the FNH on the sponsorships words side. Therefore we would appreciate keeping accounting matters to a minimum: Here a short note to educational sponsorships As you may have seen in the newsletter, our out- This year’s Christmas reach encompasses not only the Children’s Village card was designed by A new donor? If you could provide us with Those children designated for a sponsorship af- and Youth Hostel but also development of various Rishi Dhungana, Certificate of donation to 200 Euros as document your complete address in the space for ‘purpose’ ter they graduated the 10th will have it run out in needy communities and organizations throughout a care taker at for tax authorities in the bank transfer form we’d be grateful. That the year 2020. We have decided to have one spon- Nepal. This is not a form of welfare: we make sure the Children’s Village way we can send off a donor receipt without hav- sorship pot so that all adolescents have an equal that in every project there is some form of contri- Qualifies only in connection with cash donations and receipt of bank transfer (bank statement) ing to search for the address; chance for an education. If you would like to con- bution from those involved in the project (material, tinue to contribute to this vital effort you can labor, etc.). Our purpose is to promote upbringing, education and occupational training, as well as For donations up to €200 German tax au- find the program at helping students as pertains to the last notice of exemption of tax office Marburg-Biedenkopf, tax number 06 250 51011, from 04.01.2016 for the last thorities only require confirmation that funds Verily, verily, we say unto you, we are in the fortu- assessment period 2014 according to § 5 Abs. 1 Nr. 9 of the Corporate Tax Act of the were transferred, i.e. a statement accounting for https://nepalhilfe.de/index.php/patenschaft.html nate position to go forth and multiply our projects Corporate Tax Code found in § 3 Number 6 of the German Corporation Tax Act, in which t h e t r a n s f e r a n d t h e C e r t i fi c a t e o f d o n a t i o n t o only because you stand with us in your donations, From left: we are exempted of such tax as we are directly and solely a tax privileged charitable 200 Euros (see above); small and large. From us and from our project organization established by § 51 ff of the general fiscal code. Dr. Fred Prünte partners and in the name of the recipients of our (Associate member) It has been confirmed the sole purpose of the organization is upbringing, education, For donations over €200, German tax au- support we send our gratitude and occupational training and helping students. thorities prefer a single once a year donation re- Marco Hanßmann ceipt. Most often we shall send off that receipt in a merry Christmas and a happy and (Treasurer) January of the new year; healthy New Year! Gerhard Hanßmann Flurstraße 6, 35080 Bad Endbach, (Second in command) Germany It would be a great help if you gave us a ra- Municipal court Darmstadt, VR 2600 ther long lead-time when moving or switching Alexander Schmidt bank accounts. (Chairman) Monika Volz (Board secretary) Christiane Karsch (Associate member) FNH TREASURER: Marco Hanßmann Michaela Jost E-MAIL: [email protected] (Associate member) or: [email protected] SNAIL MAIL: Kleiberweg 13, 35745 Herborn, Ursula Herrmann Germany (Associate member) TELEPHONE: 0049 2772 574362 evenings Irmgard Schlaeger (Associate member)

IMPORTANT INFO

Please keep in touch with our website; there may If you have any questions or have a bit of news for If you wish you can donate online: WeCanHelp! or Schulengel. The non-profit Freun- be fast-breaking news us please write to deskreis Nepalhilfe e.V. (FNH) is registered at the > Ihre Hilfe > Spenden municipal court Darmstadt in the register of as- > Aktuelles, Blog, Veranstaltungen nepalhilfe.de nepalhilfe.de [email protected] sociation 8 VR 2600 and with the tax authorities or in Facebook “Freundeskreis Nepalhilfe e.V.” or or use contact information provided in our The FNH is registered to receive donations both Marburg-Biedenkopf (tax id # 06 250 51011) as a “FWHC Bhakunde” and “Children Village Bhakunde, homepage. at SPENDEN-PORTAL and with Facebook. Another recognized charitable institution. It is authorized Nepal-Italians for FNH/FWHC” support possibility is to make online purchases at to issue tax deductible donation certificates.

Page 34 Newsletter December 2018 BRINGING IT TO A CLOSE Page 35 ADRESS Flurstraße 6 35080 Bad Endbach Germany Phone: +49 6464 911780 Fax: +49 6464 911782 E-mail: [email protected] www.nepalhilfe.de Registered association: Municipal Court Darmstadt 8 VR 2600

BANK ACCOUNT Freundeskreis Nepalhilfe e.V. VR Bank Biedenkopf-Gladenbach eG IBAN-Nr.: DE73 5176 2434 0069 5697 06 BIC: GENODE51BIK

UNPAID MEMBERS Chairman: Alexander Schmidt OF THE BOARD Second in command: Gerhard Hanßmann Treasurer: Marco Hanßmann Board secretary: Monika Volz Associate members: Ursula Herrmann, Michaela Jost, Christiane Karsch, Dr. Fred Prünte, Irmgard Schlaeger

AUTHORS Dr. Sabrina Beck, Patrizia Bisi, Kumari Gurung, Laxmi Gurung, Christiane Karsch, Ingrid Patzsch, Dr. Fred Prünte, Unique Rawal, Sagar GC, Irmgard Schlaeger, Frank Schmidt, Alexander Schmidt

CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER Christian Sutter (DONATION CAMPAIGNS)

EDITORIAL OFFICER Christiane Karsch

PHOTOS FWHC, FNH Board, Gertrud Raviol, Adrian Draschoff, Frank Schmidt

LAYOUT Oliver Sprigade

Page 36 Newsletter December 2018