Behind the Scenes of a Successful Volunteer Experience with Volunteer FDIP

Last Updated: December 02, 2022

Author: Sadasha Dixit

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Last year, I concluded my summer vacation by contributing time and effort to building two mental healthcare programs, which left me with immense gratitude and a sense of fulfillment. Behind this successful and productive summer was Volunteer FDIP, which allowed me to collaborate with a clinic and non-profit organization in Nepal to build programs dedicated to serving the youths and adults within the mental healthcare sector. This rewarding experience not only gave me the tools to sharpen my existing knowledge of psychology and mental healthcare and grow my professional network but also contributed to helping me build new friendships and create unforgettable memories.

I have found my inbox trickling in with inquiries about Volunteer FDIP with questions of grave anticipation including “Is it worth it?” and “How did you collaborate with the organization to have a good experience?” In this article, I wish to share with you my story and the knowledge I gained through my experience with the organization, after which I will leave the floor to you to decide for yourself. I will also primarily be speaking about my experience in Nepal. However, I could imagine if I had a positive experience in one country, the same can be carried for any country you choose within the organization.

I stumbled upon Volunteer FDIP while frantically looking for a volunteer opportunity in my hometown, Kathmandu, Nepal, for the summer of 2020 as I wished it to be spent with intent. I worked with the organization to secure a spot within a psychiatric clinic in Kathmandu, as per my area of interest. Alas, due to the coronavirus outbreak in early 2020, my trip and volunteer enrollment were canceled for the year. While I was grieving the lost opportunity, Volunteer FDIP assured me of a guaranteed enrollment for summer 2021, which was much appreciated, especially during a time of uncertainty.

When 2021 rolled around, the initial clinic I signed up for was shut down due to the hardships posed by the pandemic. However, the organization worked around their agenda to secure a new partnership with another clinic in Nepal and as promised, offered me a position as a psychology intern at Clinic One. Narayan Mourya, whom I was closely working with the entire time, also offered me another volunteer opportunity with a mental healthcare organization—Sky is the Limit—after I expressed my eagerness to contribute my time to another project.

I struggle to find words of gratitude for Narayan dai and the organization for their dedication to securing a volunteer opportunity for me—let alone two! As a disclaimer, I would not suggest signing up for multiple opportunities and highly encourage you to leave room to explore the country you choose to visit. As Kathmandu is my hometown, I have already experienced its depth, which made my larger commitments viable. Therefore, ensuring your energy is saved for exploration and adventures within a foreign country is equally as important as contributing to the overall betterment of a community in this journey. Don't forget to venture out!

Outside of my commitments, I had one-on-one meetings with Narayan Dai, who exudes his passion for helping volunteers gain valuable experience through their organization. With the level of dedication, friendliness, and hospitality I experienced, I ensure you will be in great hands. My colleagues at both the clinic and the nonprofit shared similar welcoming personalities as Narayan dai, which contributed to my positive experiences.

My experience with Volunteer FDIP taught me about my strengths while encouraging me to work on my weaknesses when it came to research, counseling, and being a reliable team member. I learned to work with my cohort and collaborate effectively to bring my ideas of an Emotional Support Line to life. I gained insight into my leadership skill and work ethic which helped me see the dedication I eagerly contribute to an area I feel passionately about. This clarity encouraged me to pursue a career that would ignite the same compassion towards my work and is the reason behind my healthy work life today.

I proudly vouch for Volunteer FDIP and believe the organization is entirely dedicated to helping you gain a memorable experience, leaving you with a sense of fulfillment after dedicating your time to giving back to the community in fruitful ways. Not only does the organization provide a plethora of opportunities to choose from, but you will be engaging with friendly faces eager to help you find the right program based on your interests and the country you wish to travel to—within a reasonable price point as well.

Now, it’s your turn. Are you willing to join the team?

-Author is a student of Psychology & English writing at University of San Francisco, California, USA