Our Principles
“Proof of success is when the villagers need no further investments and can lead the way for other communities in Nepal. ”
Sangsangai has a ground-up approach to planning and decision-making. The beneficiaries of our work have the wisdom and right to self-determination. They chart the course for the future of their community. It is a time-intensive and difficult process, but when faced with the responsibility of shaping a community for generations to come, this is a small investment in getting it right.
Bimala Gurung, a formerly homeless widow, makes leaf plates for the many guests that now visit Rainaskot.
Long-Term Vision
The long-term well being of the community was part of plans from the start. It starts with shelter, but without a thriving economy, the residents may have to migrate for economic reasons.
We give the villagers the tools they need to avoid the overpopulation of Kathmandu, the dangers of Middle East construction jobs.
An audit of Rainaskot rebuilding is presented to the local community in Nepal.
Transparency
When donors contribute, we take the responsibility careful stewardship very seriously. Did the funds reach the intended recipient? Were they used efficiently? Did the project achieve the intended result?
We know that these questions are in mind, so we work to excel and raise the standard in answer to each of these questions. To see our financial reports, click here.
Community meeting in Rainaskot with Bibek of Sangsangai.
Community Decision Making
For people from the outside, whether foreigners or educated urban Nepalis, it takes time to understand the thoughts and concerns of villagers.
Spending the time to discuss the project plan and allow the villagers to direct the decisions makes them highly invested in the outcome, both during construction and afterwards. Due to the time invested the Rainaskot villagers report a very high level of satisfaction with the redevelopment of their village.
Pashupati Gurung takes the family goats for grazing, a source of income for the family.
Custom Economic plans
Each village has natural advantages, which can be turned into opportunities for growth.
Location, local resources, human potential and existing businesses are taken into consideration.
Infrastructure is provided by Sangsangai. Partner organizations and the Government of Nepal provide training in order to help the villagers develop skills in agriculture, hospitality, or artisanal production.
A local construction worker measures the layout for a foundation in Rainaskot
Sustainability
All of these principles combine to create sustainability.
Employment that the villagers are enthusiastic about, home designs that are fit their lifestyle, and eco-friendly infrastructure that they find useful create a thriving community.
Proof of success is when the villagers need no further investments and can lead the way for other communities in Nepal.
Youth-led Reconstruction
With a young population with a large number of citizens between ages 15-24, we believe that the youth can be positive agents of change in Nepal. Our staff and board in Nepal is falls, for the most part, in this age range. Their energy, enthusiasm and knowledge of the outside world powers the work on the ground.
We also partner with a number of youth organizations and colleges to inspire and teach young Nepalis to take a the lead in forging the future for their country.