To be awakened is to realize that one has a role in the harmonious development of all and to strive to fulfill that role.

- Dr. A.T. Ariyaratne, founder of the Sarvodaya Movement

The Gift of Labor

The Nepali concept of shramadana refers to the sharing of our human resources - labor, time, and thought - for the awakening of all. Over Winter Break 2011, a select group of UW students will set out for Kathmandu, Nepal to experience the manifestation of this idea by giving of their own gift of labor alongside Nepali students and villagers. Throughout the three weeks that we will spend in this incredible country, our group will be working closely with Sarvodaya USA, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the welfare of rural regions Sri Lanka and Nepal through sustainable economic development initiatives and the building of infrastructure.

The application deadline for Quest: Nepal is Sunday, September 19, 2010! We are seeking applicants that have had experience with international travel, are physically fit, and will be able to adapt to the challenges of living and working in a very remote and rural environment. If you are interested in traveling with to Nepal with Quest, please don't hesitate to contact Emily Schroeder; she'll be happy to tell you more about this adventure!

Trip Schedule

While the dates that we have selected for Quest: Nepal will vary based on flight prices and availability, we expect to depart from the US on Monday, December 27 and return to Madison on Sunday, January 16. Though a detailed itinerary is not yet available, some activities that students will participate in include:

• Working outside Kathmandu constructing a school or renovating a community center alongside villagers
• Visiting with Nepalese high school students serving in rural villages building schools and roads
• Touring around Kathmandu, Swoyambhunath, and Patan
• 2-3 night home stays in a village (in small groups)
• Playing games and writing pen pal letters with Nepalese school children
• Wildlife safari and trekking possibilities

Pre-Trip Meetings

Each Quest requires group planning and preparation before departure. This is a great way to meet your fellow travelers and get excited and informed about the experience that you will share together. Meetings are mandatory, so please make sure that you will be available on the following dates:

• Tuesday, September 28: Group introductions and preliminary planning
• Sunday, October 3: Fundraising meeting
• Sunday, October 17: Guest speaker
• Sunday, October 31: Guest speaker
• Sunday, November 7: Guest speaker
• Saturday, November 20: All-Quest workshop
• Sunday, November 21: Guest speaker
• Sunday, December 5: Guest speaker
• Tuesday, December 14: Pre-departure logistics planning