Youth CorpsTaking Students to Nepal -- Not your everyday vacation!Shortly after Ten Friends was founded, the organization began taking high school students to Nepal to experience the country and its people and to see firsthand the work of Ten Friends. These journeys were and are amazing opportunities to learn about the Nepali culture and help with our work. High School students first traveled to Nepal with Rand Runco and Nurbu Sherpa in 2003 to learn about Nepal Students visiting Nepal typically participate in a number of activities. Youth Corps students help us purchase and transport books to schools and communities in remote areas that would otherwise have no access to books, or the ability to pay for them. Our Youth Corps students work alongside Nepali students at the HEC during the important farming season. This is extremely challenging work, yet so fun! Our students provide tutoring assistance to Nepali students in English language and other school subjects. Youth Corps students visit Nepali schools and present information about life in America and the contrasts to Nepali life and customs. Students from both countries share cultural dances, foods and traditions. Students learn and grow in so many ways while creating deep, lasting friendships and memories. The culture shock for the students was always noticeable - the mix of ancient religions, the kindness and simplicity of the people and their struggles with poverty in the breathtaking beauty of the landscape. The treks to various villages were always challenging for everyone. The students were introduced to weather, terrain, fatigue, hunger and biting insects that we don't experience here in Central Oregon. We were usually able to laugh our way through these times because when you're haggard and far out of your comfort zone it's healing. And that's what the Nepalis do - smile and carry on no matter the situation. The highlight was always the human experiences and our students quickly connected with the Nepali students and adults, seeing how much they could share and learn from each other quickly, because time was often short. These journeys are challenging but everyone learns more about who they are and where they want to go in life. Young people absorb this experience especially well and often find lasting inspiration to help others. Here’s an older Ten Friends video about delivering books with students.
Student Travel to Nepal in 2025
Looking for the adventure of a lifetime? Join us in Nepal this summer! We are looking for 4-7 high school students (preferably juniors or very mature sophomores) who are adventurous, resilient, willing to go way outside their comfort zone, curious about other cultures, and strong team players. This trip is not for everybody as it will be both physically and mentally challenging. WHEN: the Ten Friends delegation will leave Redmond on July 31 and return on August 21 COST: Approximately $4,000-$4,500 (covers airfare, insurance, all travel in Nepal, lodging and food) ADULT CHAPERONES: Mark LaMont (Co-Founder), Bruce Abernethy (Board President), Dr. Mary Meador HIGHLIGHTS: sightseeing in Kathmandu, visit to all the projects listed above plus new location of Chepang Questions: Please contact Bruce Abernethy (541-771-0463) or Mark LaMont (541-280-7778) |
and trek in the Himalayas. When Ten Friends was established in 2005, student trips became centered on work at the Hopeful Home Orphanage (HHO) in Kathmandu and the Himalayan Education Center (HEC) in the Everest/Makalu Himalaya region. We also did arduous treks delivering stretchers, books and other support to impoverished remote villages. Over the years, Ten Friends took high school students to Nepal 6 times, and over 50 students had the experience.
