Why Nepal?

Its often been asked, "Why Nepal?". The logical answer is to narrate the series of events that led Rob over to Kathmandu in 1997 to volunteer his photographic services to "Nepal Youth Opportunity Foundation" after reading an article in the Seattle Times travel section. Olga, the organization's founder asked a few questions to establish intent, invited him over and the rest as they say is history. I met Rob early in 2001 just by chance I would say.

I logged on http://www.jdate.com/ seeking a date with a American Jewish man to continue my search for the perfect mensch! I was already sold on the tenets of the Jewish faith so I was to continue my quest!

Lo and behold an email from Rob Rose from Brant Photographers. Interesting, honest and committed to "Community Service" not to mention having custody of his 2 sons. I thought to myself." Does this person really exist?" " Could my philosophy be shared with another individual with similar values? And so the correspondence ensued.

And true to form , Rob was all his profile had said? Even more, considering he is often oblivious to the extent of patience he extends to individuals with less than ideal intentions.

He had already made 3 trips to Nepal on Rotary projects and his passion to help was on a trajectory to land us here and now with The Rose International Fund for Children, Rotary 3H Grant, Rotarian of the Year 2008-2009, Service Above Self Award 2007-2008 and Speaker at the 100th Anniversary of Rotary International 2005, Chicago USA.

The bonds are tight with the children, the Rotarians and Rotaractors, our hosts and co Board members, RR and Chandra Pandey, our volunteers, Neeru, Sita and Chimey. The administrators of each organization we support. Our sponsored students, Namrata and Lovely now all connected via email - the world has become a smaller, warmer and more beautiful world.

Isn't that what a life is all about? To leave this world having contributed to its capacity for compassion and service to others?

Should we even ask, "Why Nepal? "

From Kathmandu and Beyond