11 February 2009

Kathmandu, Nepal: Following Nepal's first – and successful – democratic elections, UNV volunteers with the United Nations Mission in Nepal (UNMIN) are exploring opportunities to sustain volunteerism and civil society in the country.

An idea came, as often, through an accidental meeting. The aim of Kathmandu NGO Prayas – which means 'effort' in Nepali – is to give street children a better future. Former UNV volunteer Ms. Iranzu Pinillos from Spain, who was still in Nepal after completing her assignment, volunteered to help out.

Karma Loday, the UNV Programme Support Officer with UNMIN, saw an opportunity to do more and since then Prayas and UNV have been working closely together.

To spend on innovative projects that promote volunteerism for peace and development, every UNV Country Office can request up to US$ 5,000 per year through the 'Programme Officer Empowerment Mechanism' or 'POEM'. Through its POEM fund, UNV in Nepal has assisted Prayas in attracting more children off the street by organizing sports events, and providing them with sports equipment, food and refreshments. The children also get the opportunity to perform on stage for the public.

Most of all, says Karma Loday, UNV has helped Prayas by putting it in touch with international NGOs. UNV also introduced the concept of volunteerism for development into Prayas's planning, and shared ideas on how to contribute the Millennium Development Goals. Prayas is currently working on a small project funded by UNDP to educate these street children and raise awareness about HIV/AIDS.

Click here to learn more about Prayas's work and to see what Ramesh look like now.