After almost 5 years of planning, working, fundraising, and waiting, Inauguration Day for the brand new buildings at Kailash Home arrived bright and clear.

Friends and supporters from around the world converged on Kailash and were greeted by staff, alumni, and the children. Before the official ceremony began, everyone mingled together under bright prayer flags and an elaborately adorned visitors’ tent.

All around one could spot children leading animated tours of campus, sponsors giving hugs and gifts, alumni greeting new arrivals and reuniting with old friends. Happy chatter in at least 5 languages filled the air in the courtyard, and countless photos, videos, and selfies were taken. 

The two newest buildings here at Kailash Home mark the realization of a long dream to have a space where all 100 children can gather and eat at the same time. The new kitchen has plenty of room for cooking and storage, and upstairs there’s a music room, guest space for visitors & volunteers, and a study room just for the senior students to work without the youngest children running underfoot.

Next door to the gathering hall and kitchen are the new library, computer lab, and other study hall space. The buildings are full of natural light from large windows, and behind the library are some upgraded bathroom facilities as well.

Eventually everyone assembled found their seats and with the arrival of the guests of honor, including the US Ambassador to Nepal, the official program began.

The respective heads of Himalayan Children’s Foundation (the Nepali Foundation that oversees the day to day operation of Kailash), Himalayan Youth Foundation (our partners in the US & in the UK), and of course Mountaineers for the Himalayas Foundation each spoke to the history and community of Kailash and this newly completed project.

Then, following an official ribbon cutting and blessing from the neighboring monks, the new buildings were inaugurated and open for business!

One of the highlights of the day was watching the performances of our #KailashKids who performed both traditional and some contemporary dances for everyone assembled.

Inauguration Day was an incredible success — a celebration of years of hard work, a testament to the bright future of Kailash, and a reminder of the incredible power of the global coalition that makes it all possible.

Many thanks to HYF US/UK, HCF, Ambassador Berry, and every single person who has visited, donated, sponsored, and believed in creating a brighter future for the children of Kailash. We couldn’t do this without all of you!