Guatemala community projects

As a volunteer in Guatemala, you will experience first-hand a country known for its cultural diversity. Although present day Guatemala is known primarily for its Mayan roots and vibrant culture, the country has many layers to its rich political history. We operate a volunteer programmes in Guatemala City and Quetzaltenango. Your individual placement will be arranged by our in-country staff who match your personal skills and interests to the needs of the local community.

Volunteers and interns in Guatemala are involved with caring for infants and children, teaching children, caring for the elderly, observing and assisting local medical professionals, and caring for people with disabilities. We also operate a Home-Base Structure, providing you with a safe, comfortable place to call home while in Guatemala.

We have found that the volunteer experience is most effective and rewarding when coupled with the opportunity to learn about local culture, customs and community development. In Guatemala, cultural and learning activities include an in-depth orientation, insightful discussions with staff and local experts on cultural norms, Spanish language assistance, guest speakers and special events. Guest speakers may include a professor who can talk about the country's geography and explain how earthquakes have changed the geographic and social structure of the country or an expert on Mayan culture that can speak on the future of the indigenous community. Special events may include visits to the Cathedral and Central Market, where volunteers can see traditional Guatemalan goods, such as ceramics, textiles and baskets.
On weekdays, volunteers usually get up and eat breakfast at the Home-Base together, before leaving for their Volunteer Placements. Our in-country staff will provide transportation to and from your Volunteer Placement. You will probably spend about four hours at your Volunteer Placement, before returning to the Home-Base to lunch with the other volunteers.

Afternoons will be filled with opportunities to learn about the local culture and customs, and community development. Your Perspectives Programming activities may include language lessons, field trips to places of local interest, discussions with experts on local issues, perhaps even dance lessons!

Evening meal-times provide another exciting chance to enjoy authentic food provided by cooks - and to share stories with new friends. The food is delicious and healthy and takes full advantage of local cooking traditions. The evenings and weekends are free time, to relax at the Home-Base or explore the local area. Volunteers often travel to other parts of the country at weekends, and the staff, who are all from the local area themselves, are always happy to make recommendations.