During our 2023 Nepal fundraising trip, a group of nine participants made a significant contribution of $6,750 to support The Small World’s Seeds of Hope program in Solukhumbu, Nepal. This initiative is driving lasting change in agriculture, women’s leadership, and education, empowering communities to thrive.

Empowering Agriculture for Sustainable Growth

Thanks to this funding, over 60 families received essential agricultural resources, including cauliflower, broccoli, coriander, carrot seeds, and materials for greenhouse tunnels. Participants were also trained in advanced agricultural techniques such as:

• 3G cutting for plant propagation.

• Proper seed starting methods.

• Compost fertilization for sustainable farming.

These skills have led to abundant harvests of beans, cabbage, carrots, tomatoes, and more. Beyond feeding families, many women have taken a bold step towards commercial farming, selling surplus produce and creating new economic opportunities.

A key focus of the Seeds of Hope program is strengthening women’s leadership and community collaboration. Groups of 25 women have been formed to build support networks and enhance problem-solving capabilities. Two leaders from each group serve as liaisons, developing leadership skills and fostering a sense of empowerment within the community.

Hands-On Support: Greenhouses and Education

Trek Relief participants played an active role by helping construct six greenhouse tunnels over three days, directly contributing to the program’s success. But our efforts didn’t stop there.

We also hosted a book drive in our home communities, delivering five suitcases (weighing 50 lbs each) filled with children’s books to:

• A rural mountain school in Solukhumbu.

• The Himalayan Hope Home, a girls’ orphanage in Kathmandu.

These donations enrich educational resources, highlighting Trek Relief’s holistic approach to community development.

The ripple effects of this trip go beyond Nepal. Three participants have stepped into roles as Trip Leaders with Trek Relief, while two others are planning to become Program Creators to lead new initiatives in other countries. This growing network of leaders exemplifies the spirit of service and adventure that defines Trek Relief.

Looking Ahead: Responding to New Needs

Trek Relief remains committed to supporting the Seeds of Hope program in 2024. Additionally, we’re dedicating resources to a new initiative addressing the aftermath of the November 3, 2023 earthquake in Jajarkot, Nepal. This reflects our ongoing commitment to responding to critical needs and empowering communities with resilience and hope.

From agricultural innovation and women’s leadership to education and disaster response, Trek Relief’s efforts in Nepal exemplify our mission to create meaningful, sustainable change. By investing in communities today, we are setting the foundation for a brighter and more empowered tomorrow.

Through these multifaceted contributions, Trek Relief is not only addressing immediate needs but also fostering sustainable solutions, inspiring leaders, and paving the way for future humanitarian efforts.

Photo Credits: The Small World, Candice Young