December 21, 2011

In November 2011, Appco Group Australia Senior Members trekked through Nepal to help build a school for isolated children with their client Save the Children, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to improving the lives of children internationally.

Appco Group has raised vital funds for Save the Children over the past seven years, and the trek was a great opportunity for the team to get a firsthand experience of the charity’s inspiring work. The group trekked to a remote village in the Karve Province.

The school in the village was a basic hut with no toilet, drinking water, teaching materials or sports equipment. The volunteers worked for two days to help construct a new school and then presented sports equipment and games to the students.

The construction was all done by hand, but Appco Group Support Events Product Head Mark Mallison felt that the work will play a vital role in the community.

“This trek has been one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve ever had. The Nepalese people are some of the nicest people I’ve ever met.  This is a unique experience that has given me great perspective,” Mark said.

The group also visited Save the Children’s birthing centres in the town of Nawalparasi. The organisation has made great progress in improving healthcare for newborns and mothers in the region. The volunteers will be remembered in the hearts of many Nepalese people for many years to come. Appco Group Australia Chief Operating Officer Jeremy Deacon said he too will not forget the experience.

“The trip was amazing. A highlight was going into the village to see the kids. Meeting them and learning about their culture was one of the most beautiful things I have ever done. I loved every minute”, Mr Deacon said.

Photo caption: Appco Group Australia Chief Operating Officer Jeremy Deacon in the Nepalese village where volunteers helped to build the local children a school.