Himalayan Life has been making a significant impact on the lives of children and youth in the Himalayas for over two decades. With a core mission to provide crucial support to those lacking basic socio-economic structures, the organization has been actively involved in rescuing, nurturing, and safeguarding marginalized children in the Himalayan region. Dedicated to making a positive difference, Himalayan Life addresses fundamental needs such as shelter and care, contributing to the holistic well-being of the vulnerable youth in the community. We spoke with the Communications Manager and Program Liaison for Himalayan Life Lisa Hamilton to learn more about what they do.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
Himalayan Life exists to holistically enhance the lives of children and youth in the Himalayas, with a particular focus on those who lack basic socio-economic structures. Under the direction of Daniel Burgi, founder and CEO of Himalayan Life, we have been rescuing, nurturing and protecting marginalized children in the Himalayas for 20+ years.
What problem does it aim to solve?
Having encountered children who have been abandoned, abused, and neglected in Nepal and India, Himalayan Life is intervening on their behalf to ensure they have access to food, shelter, activities, and career opportunities.
When did you start/join it?
I joined the Himalayan Life team in September 2022.
What made you want to get involved?
When I met Daniel and Karina Burgi, I knew I wanted to get involved with Himalayan Life. They have created an amazing organization that seeks to lend a helping hand to various communities in the Himalayas. The Himalayan Life staff in Nepal and India are the most hard-working and caring people; they are incredibly passionate about the work they do.
What was the situation like when you started?
Wonderful! I stepped in during a time when Daniel and a team of cyclists were gearing up to fly to Nepal so they could cycle 600km over 6 days to raise funds for children in the Himalayas to gain access to education. Himalayan Life continues to seek out new ways to highlight the work that is being done in Nepal and express our passion for protecting, nurturing and educating children in the Himalayas.
How has it changed since?
In this past year, 4,507 children in the Himalayas were impacted by our various programs. Additionally, more progress has been made on the construction of our new school in the Yangri Valley.
What more needs to be done?
Himalayan Life will continue to focus on transforming the lives of children by providing more ways for them to gain access to education, community programs and safe housing. One of our main project goals will be finishing up the construction of our new school in the Yangri Valley.
How can our readers help?
Making a contribution to one of our many projects is one way in which people can support Himalayan Life. However, we recognize that is not a viable option for some, so signing up for our newsletter is a great way to stay informed and join our community!
Do you have any events coming up?
We will have a summer event and fall events this year! Dates TBD.
Where can we follow you?
Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
Cycle 5 To Survive – P.L. and his wife Kristen combined their love of cycling with a desire to help those less fortunate by creating ‘Cycle 5 to Survive’ (C5TS).
