share
Young at Heart Tour (50+)
This tour has been designed for mature volunteers who are over the age of 50 years old, still feel young at heart, and are ready for their next adventure! During the 10 day tour volunteers will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a developing country, experience another culture and contribute to the development of education in local communities in Nepal. The tour is a shorter and more intense experience than our standard program with the additional benefits of pre-organised transportation, a local translator, as well as village and cultural tours.
With no more than 11 other volunteers this tour will offer an intimate experience, so you will be able to get to know your peers as well.
The Projects
Young at Heart Tour (50+)
Volunteers have the opportunity to participate within a variety of projects. Volunteers will assist by caring and organizing activities for children, and teaching basic English.
Typical activities include:
- Teaching English
- Organise activities for children
- Helping with homework
- Providing cross cultural friendship
Volunteers will also participate in the following tours:
- Trip to the Golden Buddha on Buddha Jiyanti (Buddha's Birthday)
- Walking tour and museum visit in Patan.
Volunteers will engage with the charm and attraction of the Nepal culture through cooking and language lessons.
Gallery
Video
About Nepal
For many of us Nepal conjures up images of immense snow-capped mountains. Indeed, eight of the world's eight-thousanders lie in Nepal, making it a mountaineers dream. Bordered by the majestic Himalayas, Nepal is a land of spectacular scenery, time-worn temples, and some of the best walking trails on earth. The country is sandwiched between India to the south and Tibet to the north. Until recently it was the only Hindu Kingdom in the world, Nepal has now moved into a new era of democracy and a secular society.
Nepal has more to offer though, than just the high Himalayas. Small as the country may be, the land is diverse geographically as well as ethnically. You will find rich cultures and vibrant traditions, exquisite temples and monuments as well as fast flowing rivers and tropical jungles teeming with wildlife, making your trip an unforgettable one. It is a country where people of different races and religions live in relative harmony.
Development in Nepal
Nepal is a developing country emerging from a decade-long conflict and is considered one of the poorest countries in the world. Very few westerners, apart from explorers and climbers, ever visited Nepal until the 1970s. Although there are parts of the capital and the larger cities that appear modern, most of Nepal is a very traditional society that depends on subsistence farming, although tourism provides significant income in some areas.
Development in the country is difficult largely due to an unstable government; however mountainous terrain and the growing population are also contributing factors. Almost half the population lives in poverty with nearly three quarters being illiterate. The life expectancy is approximately 63 years of age. This is due mainly to the limited health services available in the country.
Volunteer Impact
Volunteers provide greatly needed assistance to disadvantaged socio-economic groups within Nepali communities, focusing primarily on displaced, destitute, and orphaned children.
As a volunteer in Nepal you can provide love, affection, education and support to orphaned children. You will help to improve their living facilities allowing them to be self sufficient and providing a safe and secure environment in which they can flourish. As a volunteer you can practice and teach preventative healthcare and hygiene; or perhaps you would prefer to assist with building and maintenance projects. You and also provide education, inter-cultural exchange and understanding in Nepalese communities.
What else can I do in Nepal?
Visitors to Nepal will be amazed by the variety of sights and activities available – there’s something for everyone.
Visit Kathmandu’s Durbar Square, a palace in the traditional heart of the old town, or the Swayambhunath stupa `Monkey Temple,' try to catch a glimpse of a rhino or tiger in Chitwan National Park or take the opportunity to trek some of the most beautiful mountain ranges on earth. Hiking the Annapurna Circuit offers striking scenery while the Everest Base Camp trek offers a fantastic personal challenge.
Costs
Application Fee – US $97
Your application fee is fully transferable and will secure your place on the Young at Heart Tour (50+) program, (or any other GVN program of your choice), at a placement date that is suitable to you.*
 |
*Your application fee provides you with access to any of GVN's volunteer programs over the next 5 years, as many times as you like without having to pay another application fee! |
Children under 18 are not required to pay the application fee when volunteering together with a parent/guardian. (Except for participants in our Youth Tour program who are required to pay a US$97 application fee.)
Program Fee – 10 days US$1597
What’s included:
| Accommodation: | Included |
| Meals: | 2 meals daily. |
| Airport pickup: | On arrival date. |
| Transportation: | To/from field projects. |
| Training: | In-country orientation |
| Supervision: | In-country staff supervision. |
| Support: | Pre-departure personal support from your volunteer coordinator, 24/7 in-country support from partner, and 24hr emergency line. |
Additional Benefits:
- A Quality Volunteer Placement
Dedicated staff with the sole focus of facilitating the placement of volunteers, reviewing and improving programs and supporting the work of our partners. -
Program Guide
Your online resource guide that covers topics such as country information, details on your placement, travel links, visa application process, and much more! - Fundraising guide
Your Fundraising Guide and Software which provides you with proven fundraising strategies, letter generating software and other resources to help you raise up to 100% of the cost of your trip. - Personal online journal
Which help you to communicate effectively and easily with your family and friends back home. - Access to a non-profit:
Contribute to the ongoing support of the charitable + educational work of community organisations.
What’s not included:
Flights, insurance, visas, vaccinations, accommodation the night before orientation.
We recommend you allow a weekly budget of US $20 for your other expenses such as bottled water, personal items, beverages, and entertainment.
NepalChildren's Fund Fee (Donation) US$200
Another focus of this program is for volunteers to participate in fundraising for the Nepal Children’s project.
Volunteers will benefit from seeing firsthand how their funds are helping to make a difference in communities in need. We encourage our volunteers to get their family, friends, and community involved in fundraising so they too can learn about and contribute to the work we are doing in Nepal.
Volunteers will be required to raise a US$200 donation. Of course if you are able to raise more than US$200, a larger donation will be more than welcome.
90% of your donation will be passed onto our partner to directly support the children we work with in Nepal. The remaining 10% will be used to cover the GVN Charitable Trust/GVN Foundation’s costs associated with grant monitoring and evaluation. Donations made to the GVN Charitable Trust by New Zealand donors are tax-deductible. Donations made to the GVN Foundation by US donors are tax-deductible. Non-NZ and non-US donors cannot receive a tax-exemption.
Please note: GVN reserve the right to determine the dissemination of funds.
Schedule
Program Dates: May 4th - May 15th 2012
The 10 day tour will start with training and orientation in Kathmandu on Saturday May 5th 2012. Volunteers will be required to arrive the day before on May 4th so they are rested and ready to start the next morning. The last day of volunteering will be on May 14th and volunteers will fly home (departing Kathmandu) either the night of the 14th May or on the May 15th.
FAQ
We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions which we receive at the GVN inbox. This is a great place to start if you have questions about Global Volunteer Network and our placement process. This information should answer the majority of questions you may have.
Tell me more about Nepal?
For many of us Nepal conjures up images of snow-capped mountains. Indeed, eight of the world's 14 eight-thousands lie in Nepal, making it a mountaineer's dream. Bordered by the magnificent Himalayas, Nepal is a land of spectacular scenery, time-worn temples, and some of the best walking trails on earth. The country is sandwiched between India to the south and Tibet to the north. Until recently it was the only Hindu Kingdom in the world, Nepal has now moved into a new era of democracy and a secular society.
But Nepal has more to offer than just the high Himalayas. Small as the country may be, the land is diverse geographically as well as ethnically. You will find rich cultures and vibrant traditions, exquisite temples and monuments as well as fast flowing rivers and tropical jungles teeming with wildlife, making your trip an unforgettable one. It is a country where people of different races and religions live in relative harmony. For more information we suggest you purchase the Lonely Planet's guide to Nepal.
What is the climate like in Nepal?
Nepal's climate is typically monsoonal with a wet and dry season. The dry season runs from October through to May with the monsoon season lasting the rest of the year. April through to the start of June is the hottest time of the year and the temperature in Kathmandu often reaches into the high 30s (Celcius). During the winter temperatures can still be as high as 20C in the sun, but beware of near freezing conditions once night falls. Even though Nepal is well known for the snow capped Himalayan mountain range it rarely actually snows in the Kathmandu Valley. Having said this, during February 2007 snow fell in the Valley for the first time in 62 years! You should be aware that if you are trekking at altitude you may experience very cold temperatures even during the summer months. We suggest you conduct thorough research into temperatures at altitude and the risks involved with trekking at altitude. For climate statistics, please refer to the following link: http://www.worldclimate.com.
What kind of volunteer work is available?
Volunteers will be teaching English, as well as help with childcare tasks, such as creating after school activities and supervision of homework.
How do I get to the projects?
You will be met at Kathmandu airport by our partner organisation and you will be taken to your accommodation. You will also be transported to and from your placement at the start and the end of the program.
Where will I be located?
Our programs are located within the Kathmandu Valley.
What are the living arrangements while volunteering?
All volunteers will stay at a hotel in Kathmandu for the first night and will then be accommodated in host families for the rest of their stay.
When do I need to arrive in Nepal?
The program will start with training and orientation on Saturday May 5th 2012 and volunteers will be required to arrive in Kathmandu on May 4th. The last day of volunteering will be on May 14th and volunteers will fly home (departing Kathmandu) either on the evening of May 14th or on May 15th.
How does GVN choose volunteers for this program?
Each GVN program has different criteria depending on our partner's requirements. Every application is reviewed to ensure that the minimum requirements (as set out on the program page) are met. Next we look to see what skills or experience you have that relate specifically to the program. We are also interested in any previous volunteer experience you may have (either local or international), travel experience, and your particular interest in the program.
After reviewing your application, should we require any further information from you, we will email you to request this.
Do you make provision for vegetarians?
We are able to cater for vegetarian diets, although if you are vegetarian you need to state this clearly on your application form and on your communication with out partner prior to your arrival, to ensure that they are prepared.
What age do I need to be to volunteer?
Volunteers need to be 50 years old and over to participate in this program. Medical clearance may be required prior to participating in this program.
What immunizations/vaccines will I need?
We advise that you consult your doctor about this, because depending on where in Nepal you will be visiting you may require different vaccinations. Currently placements are only inside Kathmandu Valley. Make sure you consult a travel doctor as they will be able to advise you on what vaccinations you require for your travels. They will also be able to advise which vaccinations are suitable if you are pregnant of have allergies (we do not recommend volunteering during pregnancy). Another good source of information is the CIWEC travel clinic in Nepal: http://www.ciwec-clinic.com
Listed below are vaccinations recommended for your Nepal experience. It is important to get on to this as soon as possible as some injections need to be done with a certain amount of time prior to leaving home.
- Yellow Fever (is legally required if you have travelled from a yellow fever endemic area)
- Diphtheria and tetanus
- Polio
- Hepatitis A & B
- Typhoid
- Rabies (this immunization is very expensive and is not necessary when medical attention is readily available)
- Japanese B Encephalitis (only suggested if spending time in the Terai area during monsoon. No placements are available in this area)
- Tuberculosis
- Meningococcal Meningitis (you may have received this during childhood, check with your school/doctor)
- Malaria (only suggested if spending time in the Terai area during monsoon. No placements are available in this area)
Do I need to speak English to become a volunteer?
Yes, you will need to speak and have a good command of English. English may be your second language and that is fine.
Tell me more about the partner organization
Our partner is a non-profit, non-government organisation (NGO). They are registered with the District Administration Office of Lalitpur (Registration Number: 151.061.062) and the Social Welfare Council (Affiliation Number: 17478). They have been operating since March 2003.
They work with Nepali communities to ensure the overall welfare of Nepali children through an international volunteer program. The primary issues they address through volunteering include English literacy, community maintenance, health education and disease prevention, sanitation issues, and the overall welfare of displaced, destitute and orphaned children.
Their mission statement is: To work within communities to empower them and to make them self sufficient for their brighter future.
Are we able to do any sightseeing while volunteering?
Yes. Volunteers will have the chance to participate in a tour to the Golden Buddha for Buddha Jiyanti (Buddha's Birthday) and visit one of the ancient capitals of Nepal, Patan.
What is the course content of orientation session?
The orientation will consist of an introduction to GVN Nepal, and Nepalese culture and will take place on your first day of the program.
Are there more expenses once I arrive?
You need to allow a little extra money for your meals on the first day and last evening of the program. Any additional travel, snacks, and socializing is up to the volunteer to pay for.
How safe is it to volunteer in Nepal?
Volunteer safety is our primary concern and is the main reason that all programs outside of the Kathmandu Valley have been suspended. Please rest assured that if our partner in Nepal, at any time thought it unsafe for volunteers to be in Nepal they would close down their operation until such time as it was deemed safe for volunteers to return. The situation in Nepal does change on a daily basis and we can put you in touch with current volunteers once you have been accepted into the program.
As with any country we recommend that you do not travel alone late at night. We strongly recommend that you avoid political gatherings, demonstrations, and protests.
We highly recommend that you register with your Embassy or Consulate prior to travelling. This can be done online or in person.
You will be given a volunteer identity card and emergency contact numbers during training, it is a good idea to carry these with you at all times. Program staff will be available via mobile phone 24 hours a day for genuine emergencies.
What clothing is appropriate for the program?
Light, cotton clothing that covers most of the body is not only culturally sensitive but also helps to protect against the sun and mosquitoes bites.
What resources are available for when I'm volunteering?
As placements are not well resourced, you may like to bring items with you to help you with the activities you will be taking part in. You can discuss specific needs with the volunteer coordinator and the partner organisation, so that we can give you an extra up to date idea of what is required.
Who organizes my visa for my volunteer placement?
You do. You can purchase your visa (US$25 for the first 15 days, US$40 for a 30 day visa and US$100 for a 90 day visa) at Tribhuvan International Airport when you arrive in Nepal, if you have not already purchased it from a Nepalese Embassy in your own country. Tourist visa extensions are US$30 for 15 days. You can stay for a total maximum of 150 days per calendar year in Nepal.
Do I need travel insurance?
All GVN Volunteers must have insurance. You are free to take out insurance cover through any provider of your choice. However, as some policies do not cover volunteering, we recommend you check you are covered during your volunteer placement.
For your convenience we have arranged a comprehensive package specially designed for volunteering. It includes excellent medical and accident coverage as well as “loss of deposits” cover which covers fees paid to GVN, airlines etc. If you would like to learn more just follow this link: http://www.globalvolunteernetwork.org/insurance/
How do I pay my fees?
Your application fee secures your place on the program (remember this is fully transferable to a later date or different program if you decide not to take part in the program, subject to the terms of service). Your program fee is payable to Global Volunteer Network 10 weeks prior to the 1st of the month you wish to volunteer. Please note that all charges incurred by the payment of the program fee are at the volunteer’s expense, e.g. if a bank transfer incurs a bank fee at the point of origin, that is at the expense of the volunteer. Eighty percent (80%) of your program fee is refundable until one calendar month before the 1st of the month you are due to begin your program. Refer to GVN's legal terms of service for full details.
Do I need a police clearance to volunteer on this tour?
Yes, all volunteers in this tour will be required to provide a police clearance document. This is because volunteers will be working closely with children and other vulnerable individuals. To obtain a police clearance you will need to contact your local police station to find out what their procedure is. Normally, you will be asked to complete an application form authorizing the check to be done, pay a fee and a few weeks later the check will arrive in the mail. A copy of your police clearance will need to be sent to GVN before your placement begins and you will need to take the original with you when you volunteer.
Volunteer Diaries
Warning: MagpieRSS: Failed to fetch http://www.volunteerjournals.org/category/nepal/feed/ (HTTP Response: HTTP/1.1 404 Not Found ) in /hosting/sites/volunteer/globalvolunteernetwork.org/include/rss/rss_fetch.inc on line 238
Warning: Invalid argument supplied for foreach() in /hosting/sites/volunteer/globalvolunteernetwork.org/include/template/programs/program_global.php on line 645
Please visit journals.globalvolunteernetwork.org for more journals and feedback from past volunteers
How to Apply
Program Requirements
As a volunteer in our Young at Heart Tour (50+) you must:
- Be at least 50 years old at the time of travel
- Have no major health problems
- Be enthusiastic and a team player
- Obtain a police check from your home country prior to volunteering
- Obtain a medical clearance letter from your doctor
Please note that this program is subject to minimum volunteer numbers.
The Application Process
Your application process is free and seamless, and if you are successful we will provide you with a choice of application fee payment options that include a secure online service. We also are one of the few organisations that allow you to transfer your application fee to another program at no extra cost.
Communication & Support:
Throughout the process, we are committed to working with you to answer any of your questions or concerns. During your placement we are also available as a form of support to you as a volunteer and will email you while in country to discuss how the program is going.
Volunteer Feedback
Shayne
The ‘Young at Heart Tour’ was even better than I had expected, and I feel grateful for, and enriched from the experience. Any longer in Vietnam and I would have become attached to a baby ‘or two !’ so 10 days was perfect timing!
I believe the tour was flawless in execution and the leaders, Viet and Minh Chau, were professional in everything they did. They were both warm, genuine and happy people, (loving and loveable): I miss them, and will remember them always. (That is if I do not go back!)
Everything was timed perfectly, and there was never a moment that was not fulfilling and enjoyable in some way.
AnnMarie
This tour has been wonderful. Viet is such a dedicated and nice man. His staff/assistants are great and we have been well taken care of and watched over. I am so very much impressed with GVN-Vietnam and all the good they are doing. Thank you for checking on me.
Ann Marie
Vicki
The trip is WONDERFUL!! Viet and the team work incredibly hard, are totally delightful, amazingly organised and are doing so many good things over here for the orphans. The volunteer team is getting on very well. We're so proud to be part of the GVN volunteer team, which is certainly making a difference here in Vietnam.
Cheers,
Vicki
Articles
News From Nepal
Application Form
Why Volunteer
At GVN we align with the idea of 'local solutions to local problems', so we work with local community organisations in each country. What this means for our volunteers is that they receive a unique and genuine cultural experience whilst being immersed in a local community.
If you're
- Graduating from school and not sure which direction to take, or you're not ready to jump into full-time employment just yet;
- Ready for a Career Break;
- An 'empty nester';
- Retired;
- Or ready for a change or new adventure
Volunteering abroad could be the very thing for YOU!
If you're looking for something worthwhile to do volunteering will give you the opportunity to travel whilst making a difference in the community you are based in.
Did you know taking a Gap Year can improve your college admission chances and success rate during your studies?
"Harvard College encourages admitted students to defer enrolment for one year to travel, pursue a special project or activity, work, or spend time in another meaningful way" – Harvard College Office of Admissions, 2010.
International volunteering is a great way to gain experience living in a developing country, learning about another culture and experiencing a different way of life. It is a fantastic way to grow as a person, to develop life skills, self-confidence and self-esteem, and is a tool for self discovery and identity formation.
Other personal benefits include, developing international friendships and networks, social awareness, and building independence.
Volunteering can increase your employability, help you to gain valuable work experience and enhance your CV/resume.
"Going to a foreign country for a volunteer experience is a huge boost on a resume. Employers love to see a person that can think outside the box and work past their comfort zone. The added benefits of teamwork, foreign language knowledge, and plain old hard work also add polish to the volunteer candidate. Since business now happens on a global scale, the volunteer is armed with useful, and potentially actionable, information." – USA Today, 2010.
Reputable Charity
The Global Volunteer Network (GVN) is a New Zealand Charitable Trust (non-profit NGO) based in Wellington, New Zealand. Our Charitable incorporation number is: CC46460. GVN has been verified and approved by Idealist (the largest volunteer portal on the internet. GVN is also a member of the World Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (WANGO), and our ‘sister’ organization the GVN Foundation has been granted special consultative status on the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). Prestigious web sites such as Lonely Planet and Goabroad.com have placed web links to us. Additionally, when you apply, we can provide you with contact information for previous volunteers if you wish. GVN is also an approved member of the Site Trust Network and you can view our verification page.
Recommended by Bill Gates
Bill Gates personally recommended GVN by stating "I'd love to see more young people taking action to help the poor and disadvantaged. Two places to get started are Network for Good and Global Volunteer Network." Newsweek Web
Proven Track Record
To give you peace of mind, GVN has over eight years experience and has placed 13,500+ volunteers since 2002. Read volunteer's journals and testimonials or speak to a returned volunteer directly about their experience abroad through GVN.
Volunteer Support
GVN’s specialist staff provide personal support to volunteers, assisting not only with preparation for your placement, but whilst in-country, and follow-up on return home. GVN provides comprehensive Program Guides, project resources (eg teaching resources).
Community Focussed
GVN aligns with the idea of 'local solutions to local problems', therefore we work with local community organisations in each country. We believe that local communities are in the best position to determine their needs, and we provide volunteers to help them achieve their goals.
Recommended by CNN
CNN listed the Global Volunteer Network as one of 10 organizations that can help you to make a positive impact on the world around you. CNN encourages you to visit our website to get more details on how you too can Be The Change.
Personal Security
GVN offer an insurance package tailored specifically for volunteers. Partner’s staff are always available (24hr/7days), along with this GVN also has a 24hr/7day emergency hotline.
Kenya. 
Vietnam. 
Peru. 
Nepal. 
