Amigos’ annual volunteer trip to Guatemala was reinstated in May of 2026. Six volunteers visited the village of Chocola to support and encourage students and parents in our scholarship program. Students at the high school (Carera) and middle school (Basico) performed their native dance rituals and otherwise welcomed the volunteers to their campuses. Parents provided delicious food for everyone at our initial celebration. School Directors and faculty gave glowing reports of student success and showed their appreciation for our scholarship support by giving small gifts to each volunteer.

The highlight of our visit to Chocola was meeting with several of our high school graduates who have succeeded in finding meaningful work in the community in fields to which they are all well suited. Without our scholarship assistance, these job opportunities would have likely been impossible. It was heartening to hear their stories and continued dreams for a better life for them and their families. Astrid is a store manager, Kevin U is a producer of promotional items using computer technology, Maximiliano and Kevin X are auto mechanics, and Sindy is a store clerk, all working at businesses in Chocola. There are several other graduates who have found meaningful employment as well. We salute them all.

Our university scholarship students are all well on their way toward graduating in the coming year or two. Two students are nearing their nursing degrees, one is set to achieve an Accounting degree while a fourth is earning a degree in Agronomy by the end of 2026. Their newfound skills and knowledge will place them in high demand for positions of great responsibility in Guatemala. They will truly make a difference for themselves and their families in the years ahead.

Our volunteer group received a first hand look at life in rural Guatemala and the challenges faced by residents there. It was contrasted by visits to Antigua and Lake Atitlan, both World Heritage sites and both far more developed in every way. The education that we received accents the need for lifelong learning for all of us.