The Ama Foundation

My name is Rod Haines and I believe one person can change the world and make it a better place, now when people come together we can make anything happen. I love to give back to those in need and have been involved in many organizations throughout the years. My favorite country to give back to is Nepal, as from the first time I visited in 1999, I had a sense of belonging. Most struggle every day here with basic daily survival skills. There are also many accidents and natural disasters that are a common occurrence here as well.

This brings me to the Ama Ghar Orphanage south of Kathmandu, one of the main charities I support and volunteer for in Nepal. My last visit here in April of 2024 was a special one. We were able to supply them with much-needed items and, more importantly, love to the children here, which they gave back. These are a very special group of children that are well cared for and also watch out for each other like one large family. They come from many different backgrounds and some have heartbreaking stories that brought them here.

September 28, 2024, the greater Kathmandu Valley was hit extremely hard by flash flooding and extreme water levels in the rivers. Ama Ghar was deeply affected by this as the main bridge to the complex was washed away. Luckily, there is an alternate route for the children to get to school, albeit a longer route. This, unfortunately, was the main bridge and road to deliver supplies and for emergency vehicles to access the property.

I will be going back to Nepal for my fifth time next April, including Ama Ghar, and my goal would be to at least have construction in place by then for the replacement bridge and road repair. There is much work to be done here and to ensure any future floods won't affect the new reinforced crossing.