Community Development Projects - Guatemala
If you are looking for a Central American experience, Guatemala epitomizes everything it represents: the most impressive jungle clad Mayan ruins, the most active and highest volcanoes and a history of repression. In short, it is a country marked by extremes.
At the epicentre of Mayan civilization, and despite one of the most exploitative Governments in recent history, its indigenous culture continues to flourish, this is immediately apparent in the mountainous highlands of the West where bustling colourful markets, and traditional fiestas show the character of these colourful, industrious people.
Whether it’s hiking through the jungle to glimpse the mysterious Tikal, looking down on the canopy filled with howling monkeys and colourful Toucans, or scrambling up active volcano Pacaya; to learning Spanish by the astoundingly beautiful and tranquil Lake Atitlan, or relaxing under the watch of the breathtaking limestone cliffs of Lanquin - Guatemala has all a country in Central America can offer.
Since the peace treaties were signed in 1996, a country of wild natural beauty has revealed itself to visitors worldwide. Despite these incredible offerings, Guatemala has been unfortunate in its history leaving it with a difficult situation today. A vast population, with an uneven distribution of wealth between them. Since the 36 year old war ended in 1996, the country is facing the challenge of addressing the poor levels of education and high numbers of orphans left behind after the war.
The country is determined to face the challenges head-on and the new government installed in 2004 has already helped to see pre-primary, primary and basic education being made not only compulsory, but free. There is however still a long way to go and small-scale community projects attempt to address imbalances.
Our projects in Guatemala in 2006 are in rural areas and are in keeping with the kind of projects we have had great success in running in Africa and elsewhere. The first projects are likely to focus on the construction of school buildings and sanitation facilities, with a local Mayan NGO, in the rainforest of eastern Guatemala.
Volunteering in Guatemala today promises to be a rewarding experience with the plentiful activities coupled with colourful, vibrant people who are determined to help themselves.
Please contact us if you’d like to know more about volunteering on a Community Development Project in Guatemala.
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