Guatemala Community Outreach

Established in 2002, this project is set in different locations in and around Antigua (such as Jocotenango, San Felipe de Jesús, Alotenango, Santa María de Jesus, Santa Ana, etc.) The aim of the project is to provide free schooling and health education for children and to develop educational and recreational facilities for the community, so that all children can enjoy their childhood free from responsibilities and pressures created by society.

The average family wage in the towns is 30 Quetzals per day (about $4). This must stretch to feed families with around six to eight children. Malnutrition, unemployment and limited education are common problems faced by disadvantaged communities in Guatemala. Many families in this town have little or no money available for education, nutrition and basic housing. The community spirit and attitude towards volunteers is very warm and welcoming.

Although public schools in Guatemala do not charge a fee, children must have a uniform and the family must provide all school materials. Many families cannot afford these costs, leaving the majority of children with a very basic education and no option but to work from a very young age. Many are burdened with heavy responsibilities early in life and have little time to enjoy their childhood.

A Guatemalan teacher, with the intention to set up classes for children who couldn’t afford to attend school, founded the project. With exceptional support from volunteers the project is now run by a team of Guatemalan teachers, who provide free primary education to all children in the community, ranging from five to 18 years. Volunteers continue to play a fundamental role in the success of this programme, helping to shape the future of children and their families through education and ongoing community support.

Your role as a volunteer varies according to your interests and is very flexible to change when you are on the project.

You will be able to become involved in a number of aspects such as:

Education
There are a number of activities and projects that need volunteer assistance. One of the main roles is helping educate and support the children in classes such as mathematics, physical education, handicraft, English and computing.  

Health
The project helps children and their families with dental care and also provides vitamins and food.  This means that every day, the children receive nutritious food and drinks, such as carrot juice, a banana, an orange or a ham sandwich. Each morning and afternoon the children brush their teeth under the guidance of volunteers and they are provided with vitamin supplements.
In addition, the project does social work with the families of the children. The centre tries to create an awareness of how important education is for the youth of Guatemala.

Please note: itineraries and activities are subject to change.