Resource Mobilization
Local Fundraising for Sustainable Development and Women’s Empowerment
Since its inception, Tewa has been pioneering local fundraising efforts to support self-reliant development and women’s empowerment. What was once considered unprecedented and met with scepticism has now gained widespread acceptance and practice
The core purpose of local fundraising is self-reliance and establish a sustainable model of development that is community-owned. In Nepal’s post-conflict transition, Tewa’s success has demonstrated that local resource mobilization is not only possible but also instrumental in fostering stronger communities. It enhances community philanthropy by ensuring funds are directed towards the most relevant needs, increasing ownership at all levels.
The trust and confidence placed in Tewa by donors empower to make a tangible difference in the lives of women, girls, intersex and trans communities. Through strengthened leadership, amplified voices, increased visibility, and collective organising power.
How do we fundraise?
Tewa organizes various fundraising events and campaigns throughout the years. We have annual individual/organization donors.
Some of our recent initiatives include:
- Themed Dinners – Engaging gatherings to support our cause
- Deep Prajwolan – A candle-lighting event symbolising hope and solidarity
- Tree Plantation Drives – Promoting environmental sustainability
- Haat Bazar and Momo Fest – Community-based fairs supporting local businesses
- Ethnic Food Festivals– Showcasing diverse Nepali cuisines
All raised funds directly supports organisations working for women’s rights and movements across Nepal. To date, we have provided funding to 676 organisations, as equitable justice and peace
How can you get involved?
Tewa welcomes all types of contributions. Your belief in and support for Tewa directly contribute to self-reliant development. Your contribution empowers diverse women’s groups while enhancing their socio-economic, political visibility and voices.
How to donate?
- Cash Donations – We accept cash contributions via bank deposits or cheques.
- Annual Giving – You can allocate a portion of your salary on a monthly, biannual, or annual basis. We also encourage organisations to provide matching contributions.
- Celebration and Honour Giving– Mark special occasions or honour a loved one by donating to Tewa.
- In-Kind Contributions – We accept donations of clothing, furniture, equipment, and other items for our fundraising garage sales and Haat Bazaar
- Time, Knowledge/Skill, moral support
Volunteer Program
Volunteers are the heart of Tewa, serving as ambassadors within the community. Since 1997, Tewa has conducted fundraising training programmes, equipping volunteers with essential skills and fostering a deep understanding of women’s rights and development in Nepal. Over a four-month mentorship period, volunteers engage in fundraising, advocacy, and awareness initiatives, creating meaningful change at both individual and societal levels.
Volunteer Activities
Throughout the year, volunteers engage in:
- Fundraising Events – Deep Prajwalan, Hike and more.
- Awareness Campaigns – Mental/ health awareness, women’s rights-based issues
- Feminist Movement building – One Billion Rising, Anupam Abhiyan
- Knowledge-Building and Capacity-Building Programmes
- Learning Visits & Retreats.
As of 2025, Tewa had trained and mobilised 1042 volunteers, collectively raising over 31.282 million USD and NPR 43,54,103 during their mentorship period.
Volunteer Recognition & Awards
To honour the dedication of volunteers, six annual awards have been instituted:
- Dr. (Maj.) Amir Thapa Award – (Initiated by Lily Thapa)
- Birendra Shrestha Award – (Initiated by Sadhana Shrestha)
- Tewa Outstanding Volunteer Award – (Initiated by Tewa)
- Master Adhya Prasad Award – (Initiated by Narayan Devi Picton)
- Bhaimaya Gurung Volunteer Award – (Initiated by Amrit Gurung)
- Appreciation certificate for volunteers
These awards, conceptualised by Founder Rita Thapa and designed by Keshar Joshi, celebrate the selfless efforts of our volunteers.
Since 2005, Tewa volunteers have been publishing “Volunteer Voice”, providing a platform for volunteers to share experiences and insights.
Tewa Children’s Programme
“Children are our greatest treasure. They are our future.” – Nelson Mandela
Recognising that today’s children shape tomorrow’s communities and nation, the Tewa Children’s Programme was initiated in 2007 and is run by Tewa volunteers. It provides a learning, engaging platform for children to participate in educational and recreational activities, fostering their growth, awareness, and sense of philanthropy.
Activities & Impact
Through storytelling, writing, music, dance, and heritage site visits, children gain life skills and social awareness. Hands-on activities like craft-making, health and hygiene awareness, and social work initiatives further broaden their horizons. Parents have highly appreciated Tewa’s role in imparting moral values, witnessing remarkable transformations in their children.
With support from READ Nepal, Tewa established a children’s library, and in 2008, launched a newsletter featuring children’s voices and experiences.
Who Can Join?
- Children from the Dhapakhel community and periphery.
- Open to all ethnicities and class groups, prioritising children from working-class and underprivileged backgrounds.
Open to school-going children aged 5–14 years.
88 Days Campaign
Tewa’s 88 Days Campaign, launched on 10th December 2005, was the first of its kind in Nepal, advocating the message that “Women’s Rights are Human Rights.” Running for 88 days, from International Human Rights Day to International Women’s Day, this campaign has since become an annual event, uniting women’s rights organisations and activists.
Inspired by HER Fund, Hong Kong, and adopted by Asian Network for Women’s Funds (ANWF) members, including Tewa, this initiative raises both awareness and funds. Donors were encouraged to contribute at least NPR 1 per day, symbolising that even small acts of generosity can create a meaningful impact.
The campaign mobilises resources for women’s rights, highlights human rights issues, and strengthens Tewa’s philanthropic mission—empowering rural Nepali women and their families.