Built in partnership with The Small World, the Friends of Arhaus Children’s Home is the first project of its kind in the Solukhumbu district of Nepal.

The devastating effects of a 2015 earthquake were still echoing across Nepal when the COVID-19 pandemic began. As families’ lives were fractured throughout the region, the number of vulnerable children in need continued to grow.

The Friends of Arhaus Children’s Home opened its doors in 2020 and has welcomed more and more children with each passing year. Today, it is seen as a beacon of hope, providing a safe and loving place for more than 80 boys and girls to live, learn, and build their futures.

Within its walls, education is shared through daily classes and lessons covering a range of subjects, some taught by former Small World program participants. These young adults feel compelled to come back, helping the children who now stand where they once stood—and aiding the organization that gave them so much.

Outside the classroom, the children have plenty of time to pursue what they love, from volleyball and soccer to art, hiking, and more. They also have the chance to develop personal responsibility and teamwork, working together to share duties like cooking and cleaning throughout the home.

“It is very much a group effort,” explains Karma Sherpa, Executive Director and Co-Founder of The Small World. “We are proud to share, helping each other with great kindness.”

“It’s like my friend, Karma, says—our goal has always been to create a home full of peace, love, brotherhood, and sisterhood,” says John Reed, Co-Founder and CEO of Arhaus.

To foster a strong connection with local cultures, traditions, and cuisines, the Friends of Arhaus Children’s Home sources its food supply from nearby communities. Maintaining these close local relationships not only helps to build each child’s sense of self, it also helps to support the livelihoods of local farmers.

In the four years since it opened its doors, the Friends of Arhaus Children’s Home is creating positive change in the region—and growing that impact every day.

“We have watched the children change and become so different,” Karma says with a smile. “They are able to communicate comfortably and openly, especially by sharing their stories; demonstrating a growing self-confidence and self-esteem; and looking so very happy and healthy.”

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Photos Below:
1. Sanu, Manisha, and Sabina enjoying a meal together before class. 2. Hari helping his little sister, Manish, with her homework. 3. Manisha, Sapana, and Sujata taking computer class with their teacher, Sapan. 4. Sani, Manisha, and Sony doing some homework together after school.