Rotaract Peninsula - Nepal Service Projects
Rotaract Nepal Service Projects (20th Nov to 18th Dec 2024)
The aim of the trip is to create life-changing, hands-on experience for Penninsula Rotaractors, and strengthen ties between Rotary clubs in Australia and Nepal. It will also deepen existing connections with the Australian Embassy, local NGOs and The Fred Hollows Foundation. Each stage will be filmed, and later edited to inspire Rotaract clubs in District 9815 (and further afield).
The projects include -
1. Rotary KOSHISH Garden Project
Working with RC Patan in Kathmandu, our Rotaractors will assist in a sustainable garden project at a mental health facility for women which receives very little support from the Nepali government.
The Rotaractors will plant trees, learn about grafting and organic farming techniques and volunteer in the kitchen, and so, experience Nepali culture through its food.
2. Murals that Expand Rotary's Reach
RC Kathmandu Mid-Town has requested that we paint a mural at Mangal School, outside of Kathmandu. It will relate to Rotary’s 7 Areas of Focus. Interactors, alongside local and Aussie Rotaractors will participate in the painting.
On returning to Australia, we plan to create an Activity book from the artwork which can be used as an inspiring resource for EarlyAct and Interact clubs in Australia (and Nepal). This may also create a fundraising opportunity for District 9815.
3. Eye Health Partnership Project
We will participate in an eye health camp, in partnership with Tilganga Eye Hospital, Fred Hollows Foundation (FHF) and Shanti Sewa Griha, an NGO that supports people with disabilities. Shanti was established with support of the RC Dusseldorf, thirty years ago. The COO of Tilganga, is a member of the RC Mahabouddha.
FHF have endorsed the publication of the LOVE YOUR EYES, an Activity book based on a mural painted at the hospital. The book was co funded by the Australian Embassy and RC Rosebud-Rye. FHF also suggested we duplicate the project in the other countries where they work. Zone 8 overlaps most of these countries. This provides a unique partnership and fundraising opportunity for Rotary and FHF.
4. Education Support Project (research stage)
Our Rotaractors will work with residents of Shanti to make simple teaching resources from recycled and natural materials i.e. using 'Reduce, Reuse, Recycle' principles.
To better understand the needs of village schools and the resources currently available, as well as to assess interest in the project, the Rotaractors will visit a teacher training college in Kathmandu.
If promising, the Rotaractors will apply for an Australian Embassy grant through their Public Diplomacy Program.
Whilst in Nepal (and when they return to Australia), the Rotaractors will gain valuable experience in developing a project from the ground up.
The long-term goal is for the Kathmandu Rotaractors to share the project with other Rotaract clubs in Nepal (in person and digitally) ... and eventually spread the concept throughout Nepal.
If this research stage is successful, we will apply for a Global Grant.
For greater details about the projects, please contact –
Sandra Fiedeldy sandrafiede@gmail.com
0413 303 027
