A great way for members to learn more about NCEF and help guide its direction is to attend one of executive committee phone meetings. We were happy to have several new members attend the last meeting on April 5, 2011 and provide valuable comments and suggestions.

The regular members and officers who called in to the meeting first reviewed the status of renewal applications for currently sponsored students and new applications for additional students in some areas. As the Nepali school year is coming to an end, the Selection Committee led by Abhishek Sharma is ramping up to its busy time of selecting students before the start of the new school year.

Next, Omprakash Gnawali provided a financial report on behalf of our Treasurer. We have a healthy bank balance and are continuing to post financial reports on-line to fulfill our commitment to transparency. We are looking into safe investment options that would allow NCEF to earn more interest than a standard bank account but not risk any donated funds.

Discussion turned to our fundraising team, which expressed an interest in generating its first-ever fundraising plan for the year. This was well-received by the other participants. Aadit Sitaula discussed some general ideas, including the need for a photographer in Nepal to take pictures of the children we sponsor for use on our website and our calendar project. Sagar Marahatta mentioned that she is reaching out to Nepali student organizations across the country in an effort to enlist their support for our cause.

Meetings take place at night by phone so they do not interfere with daytime classes or work. Please look out for an email inviting you to the next meeting!

Anita in Sunsari enjoyed participating in a cultural program. Anita has had an interest in education since she was a toddler, but her family's financial situation had prevented her from attending school. With NCEF's support, Anita's dream of studying at a Boarding School has come true.

Asharam is the youngest of five children. He comes from a family with no reliable source of financial support. Asharam said he enjoyed playing sports in school.