At Kopila Valley, we have been privileged to raise nearly 100 children, counting those in the home now and those who have graduated. That’s a big family! Kopila has always been a small, family-style grassroots movement, starting with just a few children in 2007, so we asked for Maggie’s take on this question: “With such a large and growing family, how do you keep that close-knit feeling?”

The truth is, we do many of the same things every family does. That’s the secret. It’s how we keep the love alive and nurture a kind, inclusive atmosphere—so that every child feels at home and knows they matter.

Here’s what makes our family so special.

1. Meals together.
   We cook and eat together—always. Even when we ran out of table space in the original Children’s Home, we would spill into different rooms and the courtyard, sharing laughs and stories as we go. (But guess what? In our new Kopila Valley Children’s Village, we’re finally all sitting together!)
2. Outdoor adventures.
   Shared experiences help us stay connected. Whether we’re hiking the beautiful hills around Surkhet or heading to the river or a pool to cool off in the summer, time in nature brings us joy—and brings us together.
3. Household chores.
   We believe strongly in time for play, so we make a large part of our day about that. We also believe in responsibility as we prepare future young adults for independence. Helping around the house teaches our kids important life skills and gives them a sense of ownership and pride in their home.
4. Puppies.
   Yes—puppies! Pets are part of the family too, and our dogs bring so much laughter, comfort, and love. There’s nothing like a wagging tail to lift everyone’s spirits.
5. Older kids.
   The children who’ve been here the longest help carry the heart, the culture, and the loving vibe of our home. They pass down our traditions and values, reminding us, “This is how we do things in our family.”
6. Celebrations and rituals.
   Birthdays, holidays, milestones—we celebrate it all. We include Nepali holidays, American holidays, and many in between. These special moments are part of our rhythm, reminding us that we belong to each other.
7. Just love.
   Maggie told a group recently that there is no better way to sum it up, “It’s just love.” A home full of love means empathy, understanding, kindness—and the freedom to be human. We’re not perfect. We squabble. Things get messy. But at the end of the day, we’re committed to one another. Always.