Force For Good - Nepal 2024

Kathmandu, Nepal

Embark on a life-changing journey to Nepal, where you'll explore breathtaking landscapes, savor delicious cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this incredible country. Our program combines meaningful service with personal growth and development opportunities, including connecting with local monks, practicing yoga, and exploring Nepal's spiritual side. You'll visit iconic landmarks such as the Swayambhunath Temple and Bhaktapur, and have the chance to make a real difference in the lives of others. Join us and discover a unique opportunity to learn about yourself and the world around you.

$2700

Expedition Cost

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Our expedition goes beyond sightseeing; we're committed to making a positive impact by empowering women and combating human trafficking and sexual harassment. By working alongside local non-profit organizations, you'll have a chance to be on the forefront of real change. We are confident that this adventure will be unforgettable, and we can't wait to have you join us on this transformative experience.

Come and experience the adventure of a lifetime in Nepal, where you'll not only witness the majestic beauty of this country, but also make a meaningful contribution to its people. We look forward to welcoming you to our community of like-minded individuals who share the passion for social change and cultural immersion. As part of our commitment to personal growth and development, we offer our volunteers the opportunity to connect with local monks, practice yoga, and explore the spiritual side of Nepal. You'll have the chance to visit the famous Swayambhunath Temple, also known as the Monkey Temple, where you'll be awed by its stunning architecture and magnificent views. You'll also have the chance to visit Bhaktapur, a city renowned for its ancient temples and rich cultural heritage. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, our program offers a unique opportunity to learn about yourself and the world around you.

Expedition Cost	Duration
$2700	7 days

Start Date	End Date
08/04/2024	08/10/2024

Application Fee	Passport & Visa
$250	Required

Accommodations	In-Country Food & Transportation
Covered	Covered

What Is Included

Accommodations
All meals and drinks (non-alcoholic)
All in-country travel
Pre-program fundraising support
In-country safety training

What Is NOT Included

International flights
Visas
Vaccinations

Day 4

Self-development day and Impact Workshop! We will start early in the morning to visit some breathtaking views as part of our self-development time. After lunch, we will form teams and work together to formulate ideas and outline solutions to the challenges faced by our non-profit partners. We will work as long as we need, with the option to take breaks whenever required. Dinner will be served at the hotel, giving everyone a chance to relax and socialize after a productive day of learning and problem-solving.
Day 2

Join us for a day of learning and discovery! We'll start with a group yoga session, followed by a visit to local non-profit organizations and communities. This is a unique opportunity for us to gain insight into the challenges they face and identify ways in which we can help build sustainable solutions to increase the impact of their work. After lunch, we'll visit another non-profit partner and work with them to understand their challenges and expectations from us. At the end of the day, we'll return to the hotel for a debriefing session over dinner, where we can reflect on our experiences and share our thoughts and ideas. This will help us to better understand how we can collaborate with our partners to make a real difference in the lives of those we serve.
Arrival

Welcome to Life Spark International! We want to ensure that you have the best experience possible during your expedition with us. To make the most of your time with us, we strongly encourage you to arrive one day before the expedition begins. We will provide transportation and accommodations for you at a nearby hotel, where you will have the opportunity to meet our team and other volunteers, relax and prepare for the adventure ahead. Our team will be at the airport to greet you and take you to the hotel, ensuring a smooth and stress-free arrival. We can't wait to begin this journey together!
Day 7 & Departure

Join us for a morning group yoga session to start your day off right. Afterward, enjoy a delicious breakfast and participate in a final debrief with our team to reflect on your experiences and the impact you made during your time with us. As the expedition ends, volunteers will begin departing at their leisure. We hope that you take with your valuable memories, new friendships, and a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the communities and non-profits we serve. Thank you for your dedication and commitment to making a difference.
Day 5

Impact Workshop Day 2! We will start the day with breakfast, followed by a review of the previous day's work and any additional information or assistance needed to develop solutions with our non-profit partners. During the day, we will have lunch, two tea breaks, and dinner served at the venue, allowing you to make the most of your time while working on solutions.
Day 3

Group yoga to start our day! Start your day with a group yoga session to get energized and refreshed! After breakfast, we will debrief and head out to meet survivors and hear their stories. We will spend a few hours with them, learning about their lives and how they have overcome challenges. Post lunch, we will visit one of the famous markets in Kathmandu, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture and explore the unique shops and stalls. We will then visit another iconic tourist attraction, the Monkey Temple, to witness the beautiful sunset of Nepal. After a day of exploration, we will return to the hotel for dinner and free time to spend with each other before going to bed.
Day 1

Day 1 - Orientation Welcome to Life Spark's volunteering program! Today is our orientation day, and we are thrilled to have you join us. We will kick off the day with a group breakfast, where you can connect with fellow volunteers and team members. During breakfast, we will provide an overview of the week's plan, discuss essential safety measures, and introduce you to Life Spark's mission and the challenges faced by our non-profit partners. After breakfast, we will dive deeper into the organizations and partner schools we will be working with and the specific challenges they require assistance with. Later in the day, we will visit some of the most iconic tourist attractions in New Delhi. We will wrap up the day with a family-style dinner, where you can socialize and connect with your fellow volunteers and team members. Thank you for choosing to volunteer with Life Spark. We are excited to work together towards achieving our shared goals.
Day 6

Final Day of Impact Workshop We will begin the day with group yoga followed by a team breakfast. Afterward, we will continue working on our solutions with the support of leadership from the non-profits available to answer any questions we may have. Post lunch, we will start preparing for the final presentation where we will showcase our solutions to the non-profit partners and fellow volunteers. The best solutions will be rewarded. After the presentation, we will celebrate with a final/farewell dinner together (party time).
Day 1

Orientation day! All the volunteers and team from Life Spark will have breakfast together and an opportunity to break ice. After breakfast Life Spark will take you through the entire plan for the week. We will discuss best safety practices. This is where you will learn more about the mission of Life Spark and the challenges of our non-profit partners. We will learn about the organizations/partner schools that we will be working with and the challenges that they need help with. Post lunch, we will go and visit some iconic tourist attractions in new Delhi. We will then have a family style dinner and that's the first day.
Day 3

After breakfast, we'll hold a short debrief before heading out to meet school children, play with them, and teach them for a few hours. During this time, you'll have a chance to learn about the education system and the approach of the schools we work with. After lunch, we'll visit one of the famous markets located in the heart of New Delhi, giving you the opportunity to experience local culture and purchase unique items. We'll end the day with dinner and some free time for socializing with your fellow volunteers. You can bond over your experiences, reflect on the day's events, and explore the city on your own. Thank you for choosing to volunteer with us at our non-profit organization. We appreciate your commitment to making a positive impact in the community.
Day 4

Today is a recreational day, and we will depart early in the morning to visit one of the seven wonders of the world, the breathtaking "TAJ MAHAL". The trip will take approximately three hours, but the journey itself will be filled with fun activities such as singing songs, playing games, and stopping on the way to grab some delicious food. After enjoying the stunning views and taking in the rich history of the Taj Mahal, we'll return to Delhi in the late evening. It will be a long, fun-filled day that you'll remember for a lifetime. Thank you for choosing to volunteer with us at our non-profit organization. We appreciate your dedication to making a difference in the world.
Day 5

Details coming soon....
Day 7 & Departure

Details coming soon....
Arrival

Welcome! For an optimal experience during your expedition, we recommend arriving one day in advance. We can assist with arranging transportation and accommodations for you at no additional cost. Upon your arrival, our team will greet you at the airport and accompany you to the hotel. You will have the opportunity to meet fellow volunteers who will also be staying at the same hotel. Take this time to unwind and get to know one another before we dive into the rewarding work ahead. Thank you for choosing to volunteer with our non-profit organization. We look forward to making a positive impact together!
Day 6

Details coming soon....
Day 2

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at our hotel. Afterward, we'll head over to one of our partner non-profit organizations or schools to begin a hands-on project. You will receive details about the project during our weekly Zoom calls, so you will be fully prepared. At lunchtime, you can enjoy a break and eat alongside the locals. In the afternoon, we will continue working on the project, and you'll have a chance to connect with other volunteers as you serve. Afterward, we will return to the hotel to debrief over dinner. This is an opportunity to reflect on the day's accomplishments, share your experiences, and strengthen your bond with fellow volunteers. Thank you for your commitment to our non-profit organization, and we look forward to serving the community together.
5. What does my expedition payment include?

Your payment includes in-country accommodations at hotels, three daily meals consisting of local cuisine from our favorite restaurants, transportation during the expedition, and all costs related to the Impact Workshop. Please note that any extracurricular activities you choose to participate in, such as cooking classes or souvenirs, as well as any post-expedition stays, will be at your own expense.
6. When do I book my flight?

When to book your flight will be guided by the organization. It is preferable to travel together with other volunteers, so the organization will book the flights a few weeks after the expedition application deadline. Plan to arrive the day before the expedition starts and depart the day after the last day of the expedition. Hotel accommodations are provided the night before the expedition begins.
7. Who pays for my flight?

Volunteers are responsible for covering their own expenses, including flights, travel vaccines, visas, souvenirs, and any additional personal expenses. We provide guidance and support to help make the trip as affordable and seamless as possible.
2. What can we achieve in 7 days?

You may be surprised by what you can accomplish in just seven days when you bring your best ideas and energy to the table! While exploring the beautiful landscapes of India and Nepal, you will also have the opportunity to gain a firsthand understanding of the unique social issues that prevent communities from experiencing positive change. By immersing yourself in the local culture and engaging with our non-profit partners, you will gain insights and perspectives that will help you develop innovative solutions during our Impact Workshop. Working alongside other passionate individuals, you will have the opportunity to collaborate and create lasting change that can make a real difference in people's lives. We believe that even in just seven days, you can make a significant impact and contribute to our goal of creating a brighter future for all. Thank you for considering our program as a way to use your skills, ideas, and energy to effect positive change in the world.
11. Will I need to take time off of school or work?

We understand that your time is valuable, which is why we've designed the expedition to fit into a one-week timeframe. If you're employed, you may be able to utilize Volunteer Time Off (VTO) to cover some of the expedition. For students, we try to schedule the trips during vacation periods to minimize any potential conflicts with your academic schedule.
4. Who will join me on the expedition?

Each expedition is typically joined by a diverse group of 15-25 volunteers from around the world who are passionate about making a positive impact through their travels. In addition, the expedition is led by two experienced team leaders who have extensive international expedition experience. You can rest assured that our team is highly trained and prioritizes safety throughout the expedition.
18. How can I get in touch with Life Spark International for questions related to the trip?

For any inquiries related to the trip, please send an email to lifesparkint@gmail.com. We will do our best to respond to your message as soon as possible.
17. What is this Impact Workshop all about?

The Impact Workshop is a key part of Life Spark International's program, focused on measuring the impact of the program. It uses various problem-solving models to develop effective solutions to the challenges faced by local non-profit organizations. The goal of the workshop is to help these non-profits become more efficient and effective in their work, thereby creating a greater positive impact in the communities they serve. The philosophy behind this approach is that when the partner non-profits are more effective, they can create even more impact on the ground, which is beneficial for all involved.
15. What's the difference between deposits and processing fees?

A deposit is a payment made to secure a spot on the expedition, while a processing fee is a fee charged for the administrative costs associated with processing the application. For corporate employees, a deposit of $250 is required upfront to secure their spot without an interview. All other applicants are required to pay a non-refundable application processing fee of $20 before being considered for the program. The deposit can be applied towards the total amount due for the expedition, while the processing fee cannot.
10. What will we be eating?

We prioritize clean and safe restaurants to ensure that everyone stays healthy during the expedition. Our focus is on offering locally sourced and fresh food that meets our pre-approved standards. We take care to choose restaurants that have been thoroughly vetted and have great reviews to ensure that our group enjoys a delicious and safe dining experience.
1. What is a ‘Force for Good’ program?

The 'Force for Good' program is based on the belief that every individual has unique talents and abilities that can be used to uplift and benefit others. It is a seven-day experiential travel program designed for those who are passionate about making a positive impact in the world, specifically in areas such as human trafficking, education in developing countries, and providing affordable, quality education options to vulnerable children in India and Nepal. Through this program, participants have the opportunity to engage in hands-on work with our non-profit partners, learn about the local culture and community, and develop meaningful connections with like-minded individuals. Our goal is to create a powerful force for good that can effect real change and make a lasting difference in the world. Thank you for considering the 'Force for Good' program as a way to use your talents and abilities to make a positive impact in the world. We believe that together, we can be a powerful force for good and create a brighter future for all.
12. If I’m selected, how can I prepare for the expedition?

We suggest that you take some time to prepare for the expedition if you are selected. We will provide you with all the necessary information to help you prepare. Some of the things you will be responsible for include submitting a medical form, booking your plane ticket, applying for a visa and passport, arranging for appropriate vaccinations, and obtaining a visa to travel. It is also essential to do your homework on the social issue we are seeking to change. We will guide you through all stages of expedition preparation through weekly Google Hangout calls. So, be sure to participate in these hangouts and read all required materials to prepare yourself for the expedition.
8. How do accommodations work?

Our team will take care of booking accommodations for all participants at the same hotel once your expedition fee has been received. During the booking process, you will be asked to choose your preferred room type, either double or single occupancy. Please note that single rooms are subject to availability and may come at an additional cost. We strive to provide comfortable and safe accommodations for all participants. Our selected hotels are typically located in convenient areas and offer basic amenities such as clean bedding, air conditioning, and hot water. If you have any specific accommodation needs or requests, please let us know and we will do our best to accommodate them.
13. How do you select travelers for your program?

Our selection process is based on a combination of factors, including your passion for the cause and your skill set. We strive to create a diverse group of volunteers for each of our expeditions, which take place throughout the year in India and Nepal. Our expeditions focus on a range of issues, from education to human trafficking. If you're not selected for a particular expedition, don't worry! We'll stay in touch and work with you to find a future expedition that fits your schedule and qualifications. At Life Spark International, we're committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all volunteers. We don't discriminate based on race, ethnicity, religion, marital or family status, physical or mental disability, gender, age, or sexual orientation.
14. How are the nonprofits we work with benefiting from these expeditions?

We work closely with the nonprofits to identify their specific needs and challenges, and then collaborate with them to develop innovative solutions through our impact workshops. These workshops are designed to empower the local organizations with sustainable strategies and actionable plans to improve their operations and impact. By partnering with us, the nonprofits benefit from the expertise and resources of our team and volunteers and gain access to a global network of supporters. In addition to the impact workshops, we also provide financial support to the nonprofits as needed, depending on the scope and scale of their projects. Our expeditions help to fund our education initiatives, which are aimed at providing affordable and effective education to children in need. By working with these nonprofits, we are able to create a positive impact on the communities we serve and empower them to create sustainable change for years to come.
9. Where do we stay when traveling?

During our expeditions, we prioritize the safety and comfort of our volunteers by staying in locally owned and safe hotels. While we may not always be in 5-star accommodations, we ensure that our group stays together and that everyone has a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Please note that we prioritize safety and security over luxury during our expeditions.
16. I’m ready to become a force for good, now what?

Ready to make a difference? Follow these simple steps to join our program: Submit your application online and wait for the Life Spark Team to get in touch with you. It usually takes us one week to review your application. Once accepted, secure your spot by making your first payment. This is also the best time to start saving or fundraising for your expedition! Take the time to read through your Welcome Packet thoroughly. Apply for your visa and ensure your passport is up to date. Complete the medical form provided in your Welcome Packet in detail. Schedule and pay for the appropriate vaccinations required for the expedition. Join our weekly hangouts and stay up to date with the latest updates and preparation support you need.
3. I don’t have a tech background – are my skills of use?

Absolutely! Our Impact Workshop projects involve a variety of skills, not just technical ones. We believe that everyone has something valuable to contribute and that diverse perspectives and skills are essential to creating meaningful solutions. Our projects require a range of skills, including creative thinking, communication, project management, and teamwork, among others. We encourage everyone, regardless of their background, to join us and be a part of our efforts to make a positive impact.