Our Story
After traveling to Guatemala multiple times over the last 10 years, each time I was more drawn and passionate about making a difference and supporting the indigenous children and families living in extreme poverty in the Lake Atitlan area. Of all the places in the world I have traveled or lived in - Guatemala was where my heart was always drawn back to.
Starting a non-profit was not in my master plan - my master plan was to stay in the background while putting my passion and energy in a place I loved. My "other job" is teaching Gifted and Talented in urban schools - I thought I had enough on my plate already.
One thing led to another and the passion and energy was infectious...before I knew it, I was planning our move to Guatemala for the summer with our 5 year old son Seth, 40 children had been sponsored, almost 30 men and women had committed to volunteer in Guatemala with us this over the course of 2 weeks this summer and our non-profit had been launched so that we can make a HUGE difference.
Each person that has become a part of our quickly growing community has said that they've "wanted to do something", they just didn't know how or when or where...and then this "fell in their lap" and they knew that it was their chance to do something for someone else.
The Impact
Guatemala has the 4th highest rate of malnutrition in the world. The majority of the population lives in extreme poverty, especially the indigenous populations of Guatemala. Education is the only way to break out of the cycle of extreme poverty - but there's a catch. Education in Guatemala is not free, so most children never get the chance to step foot in a classroom. The schools that do exists are old and decrepit, lacking in the most basic of school supplies, with teachers that are in desperate need of training and resources.
What We Need & What You Get
We are currently preparing for our summer in Guatemala. The more money we raise, the more children we can send to school this year, and the more resources, supplies, and training we can provide the teachers with. Besides paying for school fees for children, we will be purchasing classroom supplies (manipulatives, children's books in Spanish, textbooks, video camera and computers, listening and reading center supplies). We will also be providing the basic necessities for the children - food and clothing. How can a child be expected to learn if their bellies are empty and they are wearing tattered clothing?
Other Ways You Can Help
Doing great for others is infectious! Spread the word and see the great things that happen!
All donations are tax-deductible as applicable by law.