The Springs of Namje: A Ten-Year Journey from the Villages of Nepal to the Halls of Congress

Description

In this book lawyer, activist, and former Peace Corps volunteer Rajeev Goyal reflects on what he learned from his experiences in Namje, a small village in eastern Nepal, and the halls of Capitol Hill. He candidly considers what constitutes an effective activist and he outlines how the Peace Corps and other organizations must evolve to better partner with local communities. With a focus on environmentalism and "bottom up" not top down activism, Goyal passionately argues that we can longer rely on outdated models of foreign aid, and shows how architects and designers; farmers, teachers, and activists; builders and environmentalists; and especially young Americans are in a unique position to powerfully contribute to this new world.

Rajeev Goyal, a graduate of Brown University and the New York University School of Law, is a lawyer, activist, rural-development worker, and former Peace Corp volunteer. Since 2008, he has served as the national coordinator for the Push for Peace Corps Campaign. He leads environmental and sustainable agriculture initiatives in eastern Nepal through several NGOs.

"The role of a Peace Corps volunteer is subtle. We live in a community for two years, and usually we continue to stay in touch for years afterward. Most volunteers never build anything. Often we teach, and the value lies in human connections that can't be measured. And there's a strong tendency for Peace Corps volunteers to be humble about what we've done. Rajeev never would have told me about his work in Namje if I hadn't asked; other people described the remarkable water project he undertook as a volunteer."-Peter Hessler, from the foreword to The Springs of Namje "The Springs of Namje tells many stories, including, very movingly, how to try and effect real change in Washington D.C.--it's about idealism and savvy, and it shows how they can mix powerfully."-Bill McKibben, author of Eaarth: Making a Life on a Tough New Planet "At a time when Washington is characterized by political gridlock, partisan bickering, and an ideological stalemate, Rajeev Goyal's inspiring story shows that one person can still bring about enormous change for good. His story also shows how programs like the Peace Corps provide a pipeline for the kind of leaders our nation hungers for: innovative, passionate, purpose-driven, and eager to contribute to a society of peace and justice at home and around the world."-Timothy P. Shriver, Ph.D., Chairman & CEO of Special Olympics "Mr. Rajev Goyal has done a marvelous job in the book The Springs of Namje. He has artistically presented his experience while he was a peace corps volunteer in Nepal. The book illustrates how Rajeev built up strong human relations with the Nepalese people, and how he helped them in the best possible ways."-Anuradha Koirala, Founder and Chairperson of Maiti Nepal and 2010 CNN Hero of the Year "An honest and inspiring look at the hard work and reward of development efforts."- Booklist "Engaging account of his failures and successes in both countries is an edifying and inspiring triumph."-National Geographic Traveler's "Trip Lit" section