ANSWER had been using a space for its office for 15 years consisting of 3 rooms & a kitchen during which time ANSWER grew from 250 students to 700! The front room was the reception area and welcomed both parents & students. To the right was a room crammed with furniture for the Executive Director, co-director, Accountant, Assistant accountant, Counselor, and chairs for guests. To the left of the reception room was a room which served as a resource and meeting room, alternately, for the Board, the Social Welfare Club, ANSWER Alumni Association and for letter & email writing for our students.
A few years ago, the landlord constructed a room right outside the office, blocking a window, and the primary room became totally dependent on electric lights. Over the years the quarters became more cramped as the flow of students and parents increased. ANSWER Board Members articulated the need for new space with new requirements. They actively searched for suitable properties, did site visits, discussed with various owners, and negotiated terms. Many times, our needs were not met, or the cost exceeded the planned budget.
After multiple attempts, we finally landed on a property about 1 kilometer from our old location, which met all our structure and cost requirements. What makes it special is that all the board members, who were once ANSWER students, played the central role in helping find and secure ANSWER-Nepal’s new space, which made us feel good about Paying It Forward! So, as to not burden our sponsors with additional costs to bear, ANSWER-Nepal[*] has agreed to cover the increased rent differential!
Now, each department has its own dedicated space – the Reception, the Account section, and the co-Director’s Room. There is an additional room for the Social Welfare Club, ANSWER Board meetings, counseling, letter writing, and inviting various academic cohorts to present as needed. We are also able to set up a store room opposite the Kitchen. All the rooms have enough windows to let in the natural light, resulting in a positive mood boost & a healthier work environment.
While it maintains a professional structure, the environment feels welcoming and homey. One of the most heartwarming things we often hear is that everyone who steps in feels a sense of home, embraced by the welcoming atmosphere and the warmth of the ANSWER Team that embodies our “Happy NGO.” All of us invite you all to come (or return to) Nepal, visit your student, tour the country, and explore our new home!
[*] ANSWER-Nepal is the legal entity in Nepal
