Transforming Lives Through Education
Chhahari, Inc. USA
Our Journey
In 2004, Christine Casey of Laguna Beach, California, traveled to Nepal for a trekking adventure that changed her life forever. Amid the beauty of the Himalayas, she witnessed the harsh reality of children begging on the streets of Kathmandu—an experience that left an indelible mark on her heart.
Determined to help, Christine returned home and, with the support of friends in Laguna Beach, California and local partners in Nepal, founded Chhahari, Inc. USA in 2007. The nonprofit became a safe haven for children—providing not only food and shelter, but also access to education, healthcare, and opportunities for brighter, self-sustaining futures.
For 12 years, Chhahari flourished, supporting hundreds of children in their journey from vulnerability to independence. In March 2020, unforeseen challenges brought this chapter to a close.
Legacy & Renewal
Yet the mission did not end there. Out of the challenges of 2020 came a renewed determination to continue the vision. In 2021, Chhahari, Inc. USA launched a new initiative in Nepal: Chhahari Education & Opportunities. This organization carries forward the same spirit and purpose—empowering children and young people through education, healthcare, and opportunities to shape their own futures.
Today, Chhahari remains rooted in the values that first inspired Christine: compassion, dignity, and hope. From a chance encounter on a Himalayan trek to a growing network of education and opportunity, our story demonstrates that when hearts unite across borders, lasting change is possible.
Our Mission
At Chhahari, Inc. USA, our mission is to create opportunities for Nepal’s most vulnerable children by providing access to quality education, healthcare, and basic support. We believe that every child, regardless of background or circumstance, deserves the chance to learn, grow, and dream of a brighter future.
Rooted in compassion and dignity, we are committed to helping children overcome barriers of poverty and neglect. By supporting their education and well-being, we strive to break cycles of hardship and open doors to self-sustaining, independent lives.
Our work is fueled by the belief that even the smallest acts of kindness can have life-changing impact—and that together, across borders and communities, we can build a future where every child has the chance to thrive.
Christine Casey visits Nepal on a trekking trip and is deeply moved by the sight of children begging on the streets of Kathmandu. This life-changing experience plants the seed for Chhahari.
With the support of friends in Laguna Beach, California and local partners in Nepal, Christine establishes Chhahari, Inc. USA. The nonprofit begins providing education, healthcare, and shelter to children in need.
Due to unforeseen challenges, Chhahari Inc. USA is no longer able to sustain its original project in Nepal. This difficult moment marks the end of one chapter—but also the beginning of renewal.
Out of the challenges of 2020 comes a renewed mission. Chhahari Inc. USA begins funding Chhahari Education & Opportunities Nepal, carrying forward the same values of compassion, dignity, and hope.
Meet Our Board Members
Christine D Casey
President & Founder
Tamara Campbell
Chairman
Thomas Davis
Treasurer
Vanessa Aguirre
Secretary
Margaret (Peggy) Long
Member
Tori Johnston
Member
Victoria McGinnis
Member
Alexandra (Lexie) Ross
Member
Ann Shea
Honorary Member
David Donovan-Brown
Special Advisor To The Board
Words of Wisdom
From a chance encounter in Kathmandu to a lasting legacy of hope, Chhahari continues to transform lives by empowering Nepal’s most vulnerable children with the tools for self-sustaining futures.