About Us
PSD Nepal (Partnership for Sustainable Development Nepal) is a registered non-profit organization established in 2002, working to improve the lives of vulnerable communities through education, health, environmental conservation, youth empowerment, women's empowerment, climate action, and sustainable development. We believe lasting change happens when local communities lead their own development, supported by collaboration and shared learning.
Our Community Development Volunteer Program offers volunteers the opportunity to work alongside community members, local leaders, schools, women's groups, youth clubs, and partner organizations on a wide range of ongoing development initiatives. Rather than implementing short-term projects, volunteers contribute to community-led activities that strengthen local capacity and promote sustainable solutions.
Depending on community priorities, volunteers may support education programs, youth leadership activities, women's empowerment initiatives, environmental campaigns, livelihood projects, health awareness, community events, household surveys, project documentation, and disaster preparedness activities.
This flexible program is ideal for volunteers who want to experience different aspects of grassroots development, build meaningful relationships with local communities, and gain a deeper understanding of Nepal's culture and development challenges.
Program at a glance
Why choose us?
PSD Nepal has more than two decades of experience working directly with communities throughout Nepal. Our projects are community-driven, sustainable, and designed to strengthen local leadership rather than create dependency.
Volunteers receive comprehensive orientation, experienced supervision, safe accommodation, and continuous support throughout their placement. You will work alongside local organizations and community members while gaining practical experience in participatory development, cross-cultural communication, and sustainable community engagement.
This program provides a rewarding opportunity to make a genuine contribution while experiencing authentic Nepali culture and everyday community life.
Requirements
No previous experience is required. We welcome volunteers from all educational and professional backgrounds who have an interest in community development and creating positive social impact.
Volunteers should be open-minded, respectful of different cultures, willing to learn, adaptable, and able to work collaboratively with people from diverse backgrounds. Good communication skills and enthusiasm for community engagement are important.
Students and professionals in social work, sociology, international development, education, anthropology, public health, or related fields are especially encouraged to apply, although anyone with a positive attitude and willingness to contribute is welcome.
Volunteer experience
Each day begins with breakfast before traveling to the community project site. Depending on local priorities, volunteers may assist with education activities, youth programs, women's groups, environmental campaigns, awareness workshops, household visits, community meetings, or project documentation.
Lunch is often shared with the community or host family. Afternoon activities may include planning community events, supporting local organizations, preparing educational materials, conducting surveys, or participating in community discussions.
Evenings are free to relax, spend time with your host family, explore the local area, or participate in cultural activities. Every placement is unique and reflects the needs and priorities of the community.
The program fee covers airport pickup, accommodation, three meals per day, orientation, volunteer placement, local staff support, supervision, administration, and contributions toward ongoing community development projects.
Please contact PSD Nepal for the latest fee schedule.
Volunteers stay with carefully selected host families or in shared volunteer accommodation, depending on the placement location. Accommodation is safe, clean, and comfortable, providing an authentic opportunity to experience Nepali family life and culture.
Shared rooms, bedding, electricity, and bathroom facilities are provided, with internet access available in most urban locations.
Three home-cooked meals are provided each day throughout your placement. Meals typically include traditional Nepali cuisine such as Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, vegetables, and curry), chapati, noodles, seasonal vegetables, fruits, tea, and other local dishes.
Vegetarian meals are always available, while vegan and other special dietary requirements can usually be accommodated with advance notice.
Outside project hours, volunteers can explore Nepal's rich natural and cultural heritage. PSD Nepal staff are happy to help volunteers plan safe and responsible weekend travel and activities throughout the country.
Activities may include:
- Hiking and nature walks
- Visiting Langtang National Park
- Exploring Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Visiting Buddhist monasteries and Hindu temples
- Learning Nepali language and culture
- Traditional cooking experiences
- Participating in local festivals and community events
- Photography and wildlife observation
- Weekend trips to Pokhara, Chitwan, and other destinations
- Yoga and meditation
- Shopping in local markets
- Meeting fellow volunteers and community members
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