Guatemala

Volunteering Projects in Guatemala

You can become involved in a range of community aid projects in Guatemala.  With such a wide variety of projects this program has something to suit everyone.

You have the opportunity to contribute to healthcare, childcare, teaching, construction and animal care / animal rights projects.

Guatemala is one of the poorer Latin American countries, yet considered one of the most beautiful to visit.  While sharing your knowledge and compassion you will gain an in-depth experience of the country and its culture that will stay with you the rest of your life.

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The Projects

Childcare and Orphanages

Childcare and Orphanages

At the childcare and orphanage placements volunteers assist the children with basic hygiene education, homework, organising games and activities, organising workshops and provide the children with love and attention. There are many different childcare placements available in Guatemala, including day care centres, school and orphanages, and many of the children suffer from poor domestic lifestyles and substance abuse in their families.

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Healthcare (working with the elderly)

Healthcare (working with the elderly)

Volunteers will work in the nursing homes and senior centres in and around La Antigua, with the aim of creating a compassionate and friendly atmosphere for the vulnerable elderly population. Volunteers will provide one-on-one attention, basic healthcare, assist with meal and medicine distribution and organising recreational activities. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own ideas to this placement as well.

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Teaching English

Teaching English

At teaching English placements volunteers will be assisting teachers in educating local students in English. Volunteers will assist with workshops, organising educational games and activities and tutoring. Volunteers may also participate in fundraising and the collection of educational materials, and will be placed in either poor public schools, community centres or libraries.

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Construction

Construction

At construction projects volunteers assist with the construction and/or renovation of schools and orphanages and the surrounding grounds. Volunteers will typically be involved with laying bricks, carpentry, painting, laying tiles, landscaping and gardening. The building projects are to help the community improve their schools and orphanages. Be prepared to be patient and flexible, and to get your hands and clothes very dirty.

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Healthcare (clinic)

Healthcare (clinic)

Volunteers work at either one of the rural clinics surrounding La Antigua, or in clinics for mentally and physically disabled children. There are roles for licensed professionals, medical students and pre-med students, however volunteers require at least intermediate Spanish as the staff they will work with have limited English. Volunteers should be aware that the range of activities available to them will depend on their experience as well. Notarized documentation of your medical school, nursing school, or other medical credentials will be required.

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Animal Care and Animal Rights

Animal Care and Animal Rights

Volunteers assist in the protection of domestic animals such as cats and dogs who do not enjoy the family status as their counterparts in the West. These animals are often neglected and abandoned, and volunteers will provide medical treatment, recreational activity and human contact for the animals. In addition, volunteers may have the opportunity to participate in educational programs for local schools, spay neuter programs, rabies vaccinations, and the construction of dog runs and fencing.

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About Guatemala

Guatemala

Guatemala is one of the most bio-diverse and historically significant countries in Central America, and the country's abundance of biologically unique ecosystems makes the entire region a biodiverse hotspot. Guatemala is bordered by Mexico, El Salvador and Honduras, and has coastlines along the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea.  Guatemala has a predominantly mountainous landscape, with narrow coastal plains and limestone plateaus.

Development in Guatemala

Guatemala’s economy is heavily dependent on agriculture, which accounts for nearly 15% of the GDP and half the work force. Key exports include coffee, sugar and bananas. Foreign Direct Investment is slowly trickling into the country since the signing of the 2006 Central American Free Trade Agreement; however this has been hampered by a combination of climate, poor infrastructure and a lack of skilled workforce.

Hampered by economic financial crisis in 1998 and the collapse of coffee prices, the economy has improved gradually and Guatemala enjoys a stable macroeconomic management, which has helped to mitigate the impact of the latest recession. The current government is continuing the policy of encouraging FDI and expanding the export and tourism industry. Despite this, Guatemala remains one of the poorer nations in Central America.

Volunteer Impact

Volunteers provide assistance to disadvantaged socio-economic groups within Guatemalan communities, focusing primarily on childcare, animals, health and education.

As a volunteer in Guatemala you can provide love, affection, education and support to children in need.  You will help to improve education in schools ensuring children learn and flourish.  As a volunteer you can practice and teach preventative healthcare, and hygiene.   Depending on your interests you can also contribute to building projects in impoverished communities, or in an animal rights project.  You will also provide education, inter-cultural exchange and understanding in Guatemalan communities.

What else can I do in Guatemala?

Visitors to Guatemala will be delighted by the cultural sights and natural treasures accesible to them.

Volunteers are based in La Antigua an extremely popular destination for both tourists and Guatemalans alike, famous for the preservation of its colonial architecture and a UNESCO world heritage site.

While you're in Guatemala visit a remote Mayan village in the mountains, or tour Mayan ruins dotted around the country.  Spend a little time relaxing in a hammock on one of the Pacific coast black sand beaches.

If shopping is your thing, you can't go past the Chichicastenango market where vendors come from around the country to sell their hand-made products.

Spanish Lessons and Tandem Exchange Program

For your first week you will take Spanish lessons provided by our partner. These are taught by professional teachers, either certified in teaching Spanish as a foreign language or with their Masters in Education, and you will have two hours of lessons per day, usually in the mornings, so that you spend the afternoons at your volunteer placement. Volunteers will also be provided with a Native Spanish Program book.

For the remainder of your stay you will take part in our partner's Tandem Exchange Program. This program pairs volunteers learning Spanish with a Guatemalan student who is learning English at their headquarters in La Antigua. This way you practise Spanish with your partner for one hour a day, as well as provide invaluable practice for the Guatemalan student learning English. It's also a great way to get to know local students in La Antigua. If you wish to extend your formal Spanish lessons beyond your first week, this can be arranged for an extra fee.

Online Spanish Lessons

Global Volunteer Network has established a partnership with the Spanish school Instituto Exclusivo, which offers GVN volunteers a 5% discount off their online Spanish lessons. This is not like other courses which give you pages of web material or recordings of various phrases to repeat. You will speak to, and see your instructor as he/she is giving you a private lesson, tailored to your level of Spanish. Learn spanish before you go

Costs

Application Fee – US $97

Your application fee is fully transferable and will secure your place on the Guatemala program, (or any other GVN program of your choice), at a placement date that is suitable to you.*

5 years

*Your application fee provides you with access to any of GVN's volunteer programs over the next 5 years, as many times as you like without having to pay another application fee!


Children under 18 are not required to pay the application fee when volunteering together with a parent/guardian.  (Except for participants in our Youth Tour program who are required to pay a US$97 application fee.)


Program Fee – from US $45 a day

Childcare, Teaching English Projects

  • Cost for 1 week - US $1397
  • Cost for 2 weeks - US $1597
  • Cost for 3 weeks - US $1797
  • Cost for 4 weeks - US $1997
  • Cost for 6 weeks - US $2247
  • Cost for 8 weeks - US $2497

Construction, Healthcare, Animal Care and Animal Rights Projects

  • Cost for 1 week: US $1397
  • Cost for 2 weeks: US $1597
  • Cost for 3 weeks: US $1797
  • Cost for 4 weeks: US $1997
  • Cost for 6 weeks: US $2322
  • Cost for 8 weeks: US $2647

*Placements longer than 8 weeks are available, please contact us or apply online for details.

*Based on an 8 week placement

tick What’s included:

Accommodation: Home Stay.
Meals: 3 meals daily.
Project Donation: Included.
Airport pickup: On arrival date.
Training: In-country orientation and training.
Supervision: In-country staff supervision.
Support: Pre-departure personal support from your volunteer coordinator, 24/7 in-country support from partner, and 24hr emergency line.
Extra: Spanish lessons (one week), weekly Salsa lessons, internet usage at our partner's headquarters, a monthly volunteer party, and a certificate of completion from our partner organisation.

 

tick Additional Benefits:

  • A Quality Volunteer Placement Quality
    Dedicated staff with the sole focus of facilitating the placement of volunteers, reviewing and improving programs and supporting the work of our partners.
  • Program Guide Program Guide
    Your online resource guide that covers topics such as country information, details on your placement, travel links, visa application process, and much more!
  • Fundraising guide Fundraising Guide
    Your Fundraising Guide and Software which provides you with proven fundraising strategies, letter generating software and other resources to help you raise up to 100% of the cost of your trip.
  • Personal online journal Journal
    Which help you to communicate effectively and easily with your family and friends back home.
  • Access to a non-profit: 5 years
    Contribute to the ongoing support of the charitable + educational work of community organisations.

cross What’s not included:

Flights, insurance, visas, vaccinations, project transportation, departure from the program.

We recommend you allow a weekly budget of US $25 for your other expenses such as bottled water, personal items, beverages, transportation and entertainment.

 

 

Schedule

Program Schedule

Start Date: Every Monday of each month.  Volunteers should arrive in La Antigua on the Sunday before this in order to attend the orientation session on Monday.

Length: From 1 week – 24 weeks

Hours: volunteers will be helping for 3-4 hours at their projects each day (Monday- Friday)

FAQ

We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions which we receive at the GVN inbox.  This is a great place to start if you have questions about Global Volunteer Network and our placement process. This information should answer the majority of questions you may have.

What kind of volunteer work is available?

Childcare - including orphanage, school and day-care centres

Teaching - including public schools, community centres and public libraries

Construction - renovating in schools in and around La Antigua

Healthcare - medical support in rural clinics or clinics for mentally and physically disabled children, as well as working with the elderly

Animal Care & Animal Rights - working with neglected and abandoned animals in La Antigua

 

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What hours am I expected to take part in the program?

The schedule for each project will vary, but most volunteers will work for 4 hours either in the morning or in the afternoon. Those working in the orphanages may find their busiest period is early in the morning, whereas those working in the clinics may be busiest in the afternoon for example.

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What is the climate like in Guatemala?

The climate of Guatemala is broadly divided into 3 sections, reflecting the changes in altitude across the country.

Tropical coastal zone – includes the coastal areas and lowlands up to 1,000m altitude. The climate here is hot and humid throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 20˚C (68˚F) to 37˚C (99˚F).

Temperate zone – Guatemala cools slightly as you reach heights up to 2,000m, in the more moderate climatic zone. Here temperatures, whilst still warm, rarely rise above 30˚C (85˚F), and can cool rapidly at night. La Antigua is situated in this climatic zone, and where volunteers will be based, along with the capital, Guatemala City.

Mountainous zone – This includes the areas of Guatemala above 2,000m. Whilst temperatures are frequently in their 20˚Cs during the day, temperatures drop sharply at night, and can go below freezing.

The rainy season (winter) lasts between May and October, and it usually only rains for a few hours a day during the afternoon during the rainy season. Guatemala enjoys a couple of dry weeks during July, to break up the winter. The dry season (summer) runs through the rest of the year, although there are some rainy periods interspersed.

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Tell me more about Guatemala

Guatemala is one of the most bio-diverse and historically significant countries in Central America, and the country’s abundance of biologically unique ecosystems makes the entire region a biodiversity hotspot. The Classic period of Meso-American civilization corresponds to the height of Guatemala's Maya Civilization and is represented by countless sites throughout the country, and today "Guatemaltecos" are very proud of their indigenous cultures.

Guatemala has a predominantly mountainous landscape, with narrow coastal plains and limestone plateaus. There are several active volcanoes in the mountains, and Guatemala occasionally suffers from violent earthquakes. Whilst the Caribbean coast is particularly susceptible to hurricanes and tropical storms, Guatemala usually only suffers from increased rainfall rather than being directly hit by hurricanes.

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Is there opportunity to take Spanish classes or participate in cultural activities whilst on the program?

All volunteers will receive two hours of group Spanish classes each day for the first week of their project. All the Spanish teachers are professional teachers - either certified in teaching Spanish as a foreign language or with a Masters in Education. Volunteers will also be provided with a course book. After their first week of classes, volunteers will switch to a Tandem Exchange Program, which involves being matched with a Peruvian who is studying English with our partner organisation. They will meet for one hour conservation practice each day. Volunteers may also opt to extend their Spanish classes for an extra charge.

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How does GVN choose volunteers for this program?

Each GVN program has different criteria depending on our partner's requirements. Every application is reviewed to ensure that the minimum requirements (as set out on the program page) are met. Next we look to see what skills or experience you have that relate specifically to the program. We are also interested in any previous volunteer experience you may have (either local or international), travel experience, and your particular interest in the program.

After reviewing your application, should we require any further information from you, we will email you to request this.

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How safe is it to volunteer in Guatemala?

As in many countries, foreigners are perceived as wealthy in Guatemala. Although the people are generally warm and friendly towards foreigners, as well as appreciative of the work done by them, not every individual is the same. We work extremely hard to ensure you are placed in safe environments while volunteering and security policies are in place to achieve this. However, as in any situation at home or abroad, there is no way to erase all potential threats.

In major cities across Guatemala it is important to be wary of pick pocketing, especially in crowded areas. You should also avoid extremely remote areas where you will be alone. Furthermore, you should be aware that there are active volcanoes in Guatemala and Guatemala occasionally suffers from violent earthquakes. Volunteers will be given further safety advice, including for the case of natural disasters, in their orientation session.

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Can I bring my family and children to this program with me?

Yes, you are able to bring your family, including children, on this program. Babysitting can also be provided at a cost.

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Can you accommodate specific dietary requirements?

Please indicate any dietary restrictions on your application form. Vegetarians can be catered for but you need to let us know beforehand.

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What age do you have to be to volunteer?

You must be 18 years or older to volunteer. There is no upper limit for volunteers; we only require that volunteers are in good health. Under 18's wishing to volunteer with an adult will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

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Are we able to do any sightseeing while volunteering?

Yes. Volunteers have their weekends free for travelling and we do recommend that you take advantage of being in Guatemala to see some other places of interest, which include the Mayan ruins of Tikal and Peten and Lake Atitlan. Our partners in Guatemala can help you book some of these trips.

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What clothing is appropriate for the program?

Volunteers should dress conservatively at all times, according to the custom in Guatemala. Volunteers need warm clothing for the nights and also light, loose clothing for the day, when it can hot.

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Can groups participate in this program?

Yes, we are able to accommodate groups for this program - please contact us for details.

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Are there holidays or festivals I should be aware of when volunteering?

The major holidays to be aware of in Guatemala and La Antigua are:

•    1st January (New Year’s Day)
•    22-25 April (Easter)
•    1st May (Labour Day)
•    30th June (Army Day)
•    25th July (Día de Santiago Apostol (Antigua’s patron saint))
•    15th September (Independence Day)
•    20th October (Revolution Day)
•    1st November (All Saints’ Day)
•    24th, 25th December (Christmas)
•    25th December (Christmas Day)
•    31st December (New Year’s Eve)

Holidays in La Antigua are perfect dates to go on trips and combine volunteer programs with travel and other activities. There are some projects that are always open, so if volunteers want to work these days it is still possible.

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What resources will be available?

Each project will provide you with the resources you need. However, for the teaching and childcare programs you may like to bring teaching resources, toys or games to help you. Our partner organisation also has a selection of resources including games, books, pens and paper etc.

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How do I pay my fees?

Your application fee secures your place on the program (remember this is fully transferable to a later date or different program if you decide not to take part in the program, subject to the terms of service). Your program fee is payable to Global Volunteer Network 12 weeks prior to the 1st of the month you wish to volunteer. Please note that all charges incurred by the payment of the program fee are at the volunteer’s expense, e.g. if a bank transfer incurs a bank fee at the point of origin, that is at the expense of the volunteer. Eighty percent (80%) of your program fee is refundable until one calendar month before the 1st of the month you are due to begin your program. Refer to GVN's legal terms of service for full details.

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When will I know specific details on the placement?

After you sign up for the program GVN will put you in touch with our partner organisation. They will email you the specific details of your placement, which may take up to one week to arrange.

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Where will I be located?

The projects are all based in and around La Antigua.

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What languages do I need to to be able to speak to volunteer?

For the Healthcare Programs volunteers must have at least an intermediate level of Spanish (i.e. be able to hold a relevant conversation, understand and follow instructions, and so on). For the other programs there is no language requirement, but we do recommend that you learn some basic Spanish before you start volunteering. The staff at our partner organisation speak English, but the locals at your specific project may have very limited English. All volunteers will participate in one week of Spanish lessons and then for the duration of their stay you will practise with a Spanish speaker wanting to learn English, as part of a language exchange program.

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Do I need travel insurance?

All GVN Volunteers must have insurance. You are free to take out insurance cover through any provider of your choice. However, as some policies do not cover volunteering, we recommend you check you are covered during your volunteer placement.

For your convenience we have arranged a comprehensive package specially designed for volunteering. It includes excellent medical and accident coverage as well as “loss of deposits” cover which covers fees paid to GVN, airlines etc. If you would like to learn more just follow this link: http://www.globalvolunteernetwork.org/insurance/

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Can you tell me more about your partner in Guatemala?

Our partner organisation was founded in Cusco, Peru in 2003, with their Guatemala office opening in 2009. In addition to international volunteer programs they also have TEFL/TESOL Certification programs in Guatemala and Costa Rica, and offer English and Spanish courses. Their aim is for volunteers to experience Guatemala's rich cultural diversity and build their proficiency in Spanish while at the same time helping an impoverished region of the country.

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Who organises my visa for my volunteer placement?

If you need one, you will need to organise your Visa through your travel agent before you leave for Guatemala. The information pack includes links to Guatemalan Embassies through out the world. Volunteers from the majority of countries are automatically given a 90-day tourist visa on entry into Guatemala.

If volunteers wish to stay longer than 90 days, they have the option of applying for an extension in Guatemala City (which usually takes 1 working day), or visit a nearby country such as Belize or Mexico, and then re-enter Guatemala, where they will be given another 90-day visa.

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What is the course content of the training?

Volunteer orientation takes place on the first Monday following arrival on Sunday. This meeting includes a power-point presentation about the program, the partner organisation, and living in Guatemala. Volunteers are also given an info sheet relating to the meeting, which includes information on their volunteer project (schedule, contact person, location, how to get there etc.) and their Spanish class schedule. All volunteers are provided with a pocket-sized card with our partner's emergency telephone numbers, and any questions they may have will be answered. Volunteers first visit their project with staff members, are taught how to use public transportation, introduced to the staff at the project (who will have the volunteer's details), and discuss their project in more detail with the staff.

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Tell my more about flying into Guatemala

The vast majority of volunteers will fly into La Aurora International airport, in Guatemala City. Here you will be collected by staff and taken on the 45 minute journey to La Antigua.

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Are there any specific starting dates?

The program begins on any Monday of each month, and volunteers need to arrive into La Antigua the Sunday before.

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May I choose which project to volunteer in?

Yes

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May I volunteer in a combination of projects?

We recommend that you spend your time on one project as our experience shows that between one volunteer project and Spanish lessons, volunteers are kept very busy. However if you do wish to volunteer in different projects, please ask your volunteer coordinator.

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What are the living arrangements when volunteering?

All volunteers will be staying with Guatemalan host families in La Antigua. You should expect to share a room with at least one other person. 3 meals a day will be provided at your accommodation.

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How do I get to the project?

You will be shown during orientation the best way to get to your project. Volunteers will usually catch a short bus ride to their project or walk.

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What immunisations / vaccines will I need?

Hepatitis A & B
Typhoid
Pertussis
Diptheria, Tetanus & Polio
Measles / MMR
Rabies
Malaria - recommended only for those visiting rural areas below 1,500 m (4,921 ft).
Yellow Fever - recommended only for those who come from an infected area.

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Are there more expenses once I arrive?

The program costs cover accommodation, airport pick-up and all meals. If you plan on arriving early or staying on, then you will need to have spare money for this time. Also some money may be required for your days off depending on what you intend on doing. Other costs include buying bottled water, visa (only required in staying longer than 90 days), departure tax, and any shopping you will do personally. Volunteers also need to pay for the bus to their project each day.

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What happens if I get sick or have an accident whilst I'm in Guatemala?

You should contact our partner organisation who will take you to a clinic with an English speaking doctor. They will also give you an emergency number during your orientation session. If you are unable to contact our partner organisation, you may call GVN using our 24/7 emergency hotline.

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Volunteer Diaries

Childcare Program

Monday, September 20th, 2010

Many of the children at our projects have been affected by poor living conditions, little or no education and alcohol / drug abuse. Volunteers provide loving care, support and companionship to children in need, organising games and activities, providing individual attention, educating children in hygiene and assisting with homework. Volunteers will work in street children [click here to read more]

Click here to read the full blog entry

Please visit journals.globalvolunteernetwork.org for more journals and feedback from past volunteers

How to Apply

Program Requirements

As a volunteer in Guatemala you must:

  • be at least 18 years of age
  • have no health problems
  • for the Healthcare Programs volunteers must have at least an intermediate level of Spanish (i.e. be able to hold a relevant conversation, understand and follow instructions, and so on).
  • for the Construction and Animal Care programs volunteers must be physically fit

The Application Process

Your application process is free and seamless, and if you are successful we will provide you with a choice of application fee payment options that include a secure online service. We also are one of the few organisations that allow you to transfer your application fee to another program at no extra cost.

Application Process

Communication & Support:
Throughout the process, we are committed to working with you to answer any of your questions or concerns. During your placement we are also available as a form of support to you as a volunteer and will email you while in country to discuss how the program is going.

Volunteer Feedback

Please see some general feedback on the program organisation below:

"Excellent experience! I was very impressed with the support and service ..."

"[The] staff provided great support and were all very happy to help.  Thank you!!"

"Loved everything about my stay here in Antigua.  Keep up the great work!  See you soon!"

"The facilities were very neat and my apartment was conveniently close by.  Anything I asked for was provided, so I appreciate it. Thanks!"

Feedback from one of the medical program volunteers:

"I really enjoyed the program. At first I was not used to it [the environment]. However, after a few days things were getting better.  And it was since then that I started to enjoy the atmosphere in the clinic.  It just takes time,and once we are used to the atmosphere we will have fun."

Click here to read more volunteer feedback

Articles

News From Guatemala

Application Form

 

 

 
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