Friends of WPC Nepal

Friends of WPC Nepal is a U.S.-based nonprofit organization dedicated to combating human trafficking in Nepal. It is registered under the U.S. tax code as a 501(c)(3) organization, allowing donations to be tax-deductible. The organization focuses on providing a safe environment and vocational training for rescued and at-risk women and children, aiming to empower them to become independent individuals.

History and Mission

The organization's roots trace back to the efforts of Lila Ghising, who founded the Women's Protection Center in Hetauda, Nepal, in 2001. Ghising's work was motivated by personal experiences of witnessing friends disappear, which led her to raise awareness about human trafficking. The mission of Friends of WPC Nepal is to stop human trafficking "one woman, one child at a time" by supporting the Women's Protection Center.

Activities and Programs

Key activities include:

• Vocational Training: Providing skills training to help rescued and at-risk individuals become self-sufficient.
• Awareness and Prevention: Raising awareness about human trafficking, particularly in rural Nepali communities where traffickers prey on vulnerable populations by false promises of education and better living conditions.
• Safe Housing: Maintaining a safe home for trafficked victims and those at risk.

Financial Overview

The organization primarily relies on contributions for its revenue. It does not generate income from program services or investments. As of recent years, the total assets of Friends of WPC Nepal have remained relatively stable, with no significant liabilities.

Governance and Leadership

Friends of WPC Nepal is governed by a board that includes Noah Fletcher, Perry Burkholder, and Lila Ghising. The organization emphasizes ethical governance practices, including a formal orientation process for new board members and regular reviews of conflict-of-interest policies. The board composition is designed to ensure diversity and inclusive decision-making processes.

Impact and Achievements

Over nearly two decades, the Women's Protection Center in Nepal, supported by Friends of WPC Nepal, has rehabilitated thousands of women and children. This work has been instrumental in helping these individuals escape the cycle of trafficking and build more stable futures.