WHAT WE DO

The Unatti Foundation combines a three-pronged approach to its mission of providing opportunity for the underprivileged and underserved in Nepal. Our programs focusing on Education, Self-Sufficiency, and Community Outreach address poverty in children from multiple angles.

Education

We operate a home for underprivileged children in the heart of Bhaktapur, caring for 18 girls with the support of 3 house mothers. They come from many different cities and backgrounds, ranging in age from 3-18 years old. With our support and funding, they attend the best schools in the village and receive 24-hour care. The Unatti Foundation funds scholarships for four other underprivileged children in Nepal.

Self-Sufficiency

In addition, the Unatti Foundation has developed programs to also benefit the entire community of Bhaktapur. Its handicraft business employs women artisans to create beautiful handicrafts that are sold in the United States. All proceeds from the sale of Unatti products are funneled directly back into the organization’s operations fund.

In 2010, Unatti Handicrafts generated 50 % of our operating budget and our goal is to continue growing this self-sufficient  program so it will continue to fund the Unatti Foundation for years to come.

Community Outreach

The Unatti Arts and Music Center provides free after-school programs in visual and performing arts. Through artistic exploration, children who witness the extreme poverty and loss prevalent in Nepal have the opportunity to discover a positive outlet for their emotions. The arts offer not only the forum for students to share their thoughts and feelings through a common medium, but also an avenue for which to cope with the trauma and hardships they face in a poverty stricken environment. Where a family of seven people often must share one room without running water or electricity, crayons and musical instruments are a luxury. The visual arts and music would allow these children to channel the burdens of their past into original works of art—cultivating the self worth they need for a positive future.

During the day, the Unatti Arts and Music Center offers free English and Nepali literacy classes to adult women in Bhaktapur.