about us
it takes a village
We are committed to providing a nurturing home, education, and future opportunities to orphaned or abandoned children in Nepal.
Our story began as an encounter between locals and travelling Canadians in Nepal. Both sides realized they wanted to build a safe haven for vulnerable children. Thus, in 2008, an international collaboration and Children’s home began in the picturesque town of Bandipur. 15 years later, the home has welcomed many displaced youth and, with the help of independent Canadian donors and Nepalese caregivers, has watched them grow into responsible young adults. We couldn’t be prouder!
Because of our efforts, the Bandipur Children's Home is noted as a model in the Tanahun district of Nepal. Our goal is to exemplify holistic care that not only benefits the lives of our children, but also the lives of other youth in nearby Children's Homes.
mission
statement
The Nepal Children’s Foundation partners with a dedicated Nepalese family to provide disadvantaged and at-risk children with a safe, holistic, loving home.
vision
statement
For disadvantaged and at-risk children to grow up in a safe, loving home, with the care, stability, and opportunities every child deserves.
values
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Compassion
We work alongside caregivers with empathy and understanding, supporting each child's unique needs and fostering an environment where they feel valued, safe, and heard.
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Encouragement
We inspire both children and caregivers by creating an atmosphere of support and motivation, celebrating progress and helping individuals build confidence to overcome challenges and thrive.
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Integrity
We uphold the highest ethical standards in all our actions, ensuring transparency, honesty, and accountability in our partnerships with caregivers, children, and supporters.
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Empowerment
Through collaboration with caregivers, we provide children with the resources, education, and emotional support they need to grow into resilient, self-sufficient individuals who shape their own futures.
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Community
We foster a strong, inclusive community where caregivers, children, and our team work together to create a supportive network, strengthening relationships and a sense of belonging.
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Safety
We prioritize the physical and emotional safety of every child, working closely with caregivers to maintain a secure environment where children can grow, heal, and thrive without fear or harm.
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Sustainability
We are committed to sustainable practices, ensuring long-term support for the children, caregivers, and the foundation, while creating lasting impact for future generations.
Our board members,
staff & volunteers
Marcie Esau
Cofounder + Executive Director
Marcie is a Registered Nurse and Contemporary Artist. With two kids and two cats, She's always on the move. Marcie loves reading, hiking and camping. She saves her most special adventures for Nepal mountain villages. Marcie comes with her behind-the-scenes husband who has also supported every aspect of this work. She currently lives in New Westminster, BC.
Christina Panthi
Cofounder, Home Mother
+ Local Director
Christina works very hard to run the Bandipur Children's Home alongside her husband, Dipak.
Dipak Panthi
Cofounder, Home Father +
Local Director
With the help of his loving wife, Christina, Dipak runs the Children's Home and cares deeply for all of his children.
Amanda Egert
Director of Operations
Amanda has a passion for global work and global connectedness. She is a Registered Nurse with a variety of experiences that have taken her on many journeys both locally and globally. Amanda is a long-time nurse educator and leader in a Vancouver undergraduate nursing program. Her daily joy comes from finding ways to spend time with family and friends, soaking up the sun, and planning her next adventure.
Jovi Klak
Graphic Designer
Jovi is a visual artist and graphic designer who fell in love with Nepal during a solo hiking trip in 2017. A serendipitous meeting with Marcie opened the door for her to give back, beginning with the design of the NCF logo and website. She lives in a small log cabin in northern Alberta with her partner and big dog, finding inspiration in the quiet rhythms of nature.
Laxman Kaphle
Youth Leader
Laxman is a role model and excellent leader to the youth at the Bandipur Children's Home.
Other team members
Child Wellness Liaison Heather Ritz
Educational Liaison + Scholarship Planner Melissa Wiens
Culture + Finance Advisors Carl Reimer & Carmen Esau