Just Nepal Foundation

A small group of youths in the rural Helambu region of Nepal started a small community project in 1996. In 2016 this initiative evolved as Just Nepal Foundation (JNF), an NGO which is registered with the Government of Nepal and associated with the Social Welfare Commission in Kathmandu. Locally: we want to strengthen individuals and communities to take part in society by ensuring access to knowledge, skills and education. And promote sustainable, environmentally friendly livelihood. Nationally: we want to support democratic development that promotes popular participation. We promote social inclusion, compassion and a culture of non-violence. Volunteerism is a crucial part of JNF. Volunteerism is a means of mobilizing communities at local, national and international level and is also an excellent way to develop understanding between people and communities. Since the 90's, there have been strong links between Denmark and Helambu. This has included inspiring exchanges between Danish and Nepali youth. Over 200 young Danes have stayed at the project, as volunteers, as members of visiting folk-high school groups or as practicum students from teacher training colleges and social worker colleges. Likewise, the first Nepalese to attend a Grundtvigian folk high school in Denmark came from Helambu. Since the Nepal earthquake in 2015 JNF has- Rebuilt all the classrooms at Yangrima School - Continues to support local families through distribution of warm clothes in winter etc - Supported 'Visit Helambu' campaign to promote Helambu as a tourist destination; organizing Helambu Marathon and Keep Helambu Clean Campaign etc. Recognized by Nepal Tourism Board as the local Destination Promotion Organization- Managing the international standard trekking trail signage across Helambu funded by DFID- An 18 month long youth project to develop civic awareness, entrepreneurship and social media skills among the rural youths in Helambu with CECID our Danish partner.