About Us
Our Mission
Founded with the objective of uniting the Sherpa community based in California, preserving the rich cultural and religious heritage of Sherpa people.
Our Vision
To build a strong community among all Sherpas residing in California and eventually build a community center to serve all our members.
Upcoming Events
Join us at our community gatherings and cultural celebrations
Our Impact
Serving the community since 2010
Cultural gatherings and celebrations
Sherpas across California
Through our assistance programs
Our Programs
Discover the initiatives that strengthen our community and preserve our heritage
Cultural Preservation
Preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Sherpa people through events, workshops, and educational programs.
- Traditional dance and music workshops
- Language preservation classes
- Cultural storytelling sessions
- Heritage documentation projects
Religious Gatherings
Organizing Buddhist religious ceremonies and gatherings to maintain our spiritual traditions and community bonds.
- Annual Lapso celebrations
- Losar (New Year) ceremonies
- Buddha Jayanti observances
- Prayer and meditation sessions
Community Support
Providing assistance to Sherpa community members during times of need, including emergency support and resources.
- Emergency financial assistance
- Family support services
- Newcomer welcome programs
- Resource sharing network
Youth Programs
Engaging the next generation of Sherpas through educational and cultural activities that connect them with their heritage.
- Youth cultural camps
- Mentorship programs
- Scholarship opportunities
- Leadership development
Community Center Project
Our long-term vision to build a dedicated community center to serve all Sherpa members in California.
- Fundraising initiative since 2018
- Multi-purpose gathering space
- Cultural education facility
- Community event venue
Community Networking
Building connections among Sherpas across California through events, gatherings, and communication platforms.
- Annual community picnics
- Regional meetups
- Online community platform
- Business networking events
Community Voices
Hear from the members of our community about the impact of the California Sherpa Association.
“The California Sherpa Association has been instrumental in keeping our cultural traditions alive. Through their events and programs, my children have learned about our heritage in ways I never could have taught them alone.”
Pasang D. Sherpa
Community Member since 2012
“When our family first moved to California, the CSA welcomed us with open arms. They helped us find our footing and connected us with the broader Sherpa community. We are forever grateful for their support.”
Dawa Sherpa
Community Member
“The annual Lapso celebration organized by CSA is the highlight of our year. It brings together Sherpas from all over California and reminds us of who we are and where we come from.”
Mingma T. Sherpa
Lifetime Member
Chronology of Sherpa History
(Most dates are approximate)
Sherpas originally came from Kham/Tibet
Sherpas cross Himalayas and settle in Khumbu area
Settlement of Solu
Founding of Pangboche monastery
Founding of monastery at Thami and Rimijung
Founding of Zhung monastery
Founding of Khumjung monastery
Birth of Karma, the senior founder of Tengboche monastery
Birth of Sangye, Karma's younger brother and the sole founder of Chiwang monastery
Birth of Kusang, a Tengboche monastery sponsor
Founding of Nauje/Namche monastery
Founding of Tengboche monastery
Founding of Chiwong monastery
Founding of Debuche nunnery, near Tengboche
Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary became the first persons to summit Mt. Everest
Support Our Mission
Your generous donation helps us preserve Sherpa cultural heritage, support families in need, and build a stronger community. Every contribution makes a difference in the lives of Sherpa families across California.
California Sherpa Association is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Your donation may be tax-deductible.
Stay Connected
Subscribe to our newsletter to receive updates about events, community news, and ways to get involved with the California Sherpa Association.
We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.