Dashain Camp is an exciting time that energizes our whole community, including me. Year after year, I am captivated by the unique atmosphere it creates, and I’ve never missed a single camp – first as a student, and now as a volunteer. It’s one thing that I look forward to in the year because it means I get to visit my home, see old friends, and spend time with my siblings. If I had to sum up the experience of Dashain Camp, it would be LOVE – because I witness how children and adults alike leave with hearts that are touched and changed by the community, culture, and a care that define this special time.
Every year, as I am getting ready to join the camp, whether it’s as a dance teacher, a photographer, or just to lend a helping hand, I am reminded of the ‘Why’ Dashain Camp was introduced.
Dashain is Nepal’s biggest festival, a time when families reunite, and relatives travel long distances to be together. It traditionally is a time for family, cultural rituals, and joy. The entire country pauses, and school closes for a month. For many, it’s a joyful season filled with warmth and celebration.
But for some, this extended break can mean isolation or a lack of structured support. Many of the kids from Kopila Valley School go days without eating a proper nutritional meal, or without proper healthcare facilities. When this problem came to light, a solution was formed at Kopila: Dashain Camp, offering not only FUN activities but also a sense of community and continuity to the children during the holiday season.
Dashain Camp embodies the value of the festival, bringing students together to celebrate, learn, and connect in a joyful setting.
In recent years, the gates of Kopila Valley School have been opened to the community children in addition to current students, to show gratitude to our neighbors for accepting and supporting Kopila programs. The gates open wide, inviting children from the community to explore the school and connect with the students. It’s amazing to see how this small gesture is creating bonds and a sense of unity among the kids.
As I reflect on the experiences shared, the infectious laughter and the energy of the students, and the warm camaraderie of the camp, I am filled with gratitude for the part I was able to play in making it all happen.
For ten whole days, the incredible Dashain Camp volunteers and leadership team run the camp like true champions. Each day, the number of children grows to 350 or 400, presenting constant challenges in planning and adjustments. Yet, they handle it all with remarkable ease and dedication.
The camp is successful every year because of many amazing volunteers who are passionate, compassionate, and are willing to give their time – but it’s also possible because of people like you who believe in the organization’s vision. Your support has fed, entertained, and taught 350+ children who need a safe place to be during the holiday break.
The real essence of Dashain Camp is in the shared spirit of joy, resilience, and learning. I am incredibly grateful to you who have contributed to a program that not only teaches values but also strengthens bonds and fosters a sense of community. As I reflect on the positive ripple effect your generous support has created, I feel an overwhelming sense of pride to have connection with all the students. I’ll be honest, seeing their smiles and hearing their laughter reminds me that your contributions, however small, have the power to create warmth and joy in their lives.
I don’t think I can put into words how much the camp has impacted many children’s lives in Nepal. So I think you should see it for yourself!
Click on the video to watch!
Thank you for your support, which brings hope, joy, and lasting impact to hundreds of children at Dashain Camp—because of you, it’s possible to build brighter futures and stronger communities.
Anjali Karki is a graduate of the Kopila Valley School and member of the BlinkNow Communications Team.
