CARE International in Nepal: Brief Introduction

CARE founded over 60 years ago, is third largest international humanitarian organization. At present, it is a consortium of 12 members countries-CARE Australia, CARE Canada, CARE Denmark, CARE Germany, CARE France, CARE Japan, CARE Nederland, CARE Norway, CARE Austria, CARE Thailand, CARE UK, CARE USA with its secretariat in Geneve, Switzerland. It operates in over 70 countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America, the Middle East and Eastern Europe. Different country offices are managed by different International members. CARE Nepal is managed by CARE USA.

CARE began working in Nepal in 1978. The early focus was on improving infrastructure in remote areas and agriculture extension activities. Today, its programs are wide ranging and promote equitable and sustainable livelihood by addressing the causes, rather than symptoms of poverty and social injustice. The programs include: improving people's access to food, health, education, economic opportunities, natural resources and safe environment; promoting governance, peace and disaster risk reduction; and strengthening the ability of the poor and marginalized to exercise their rights and participate in the decisions that affect their lives.

CARE Nepal works through both formal and informal partnership at multiple levels: with local NGOs, government agencies, communities, civil society groups, federations, networks and private sector. CARE Nepal is currently working in partnership with over 100 local NGOs, 10 different networks and a range of community groups. Partnership with local institutions is an important means of increasing the reach and sustainability of CARE programs, while increasing the institutional capacity of partners. CARE's collaboration with Nepal government ensures that it's programs complement national plans and policies.

Today, CARE Nepal operates in 40 districts, with major focus on mid- and far-western regions, through 20 community development programs.