Volunteer Guatemala

1. How were the local ABV coordinators and the support provided in-country?
Fantastic. The local support staff checked in on me no less than once a week and was very quick to respond to messages. Communication was extremely clear before and during the trip, and my arrival was coordinated very smoothly. I can´t thank them enough for coordinating my Spanish lessons with such a fantastic teacher.

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced?
There is so much to see and do in and around Xela. It´s also relatively easy to get around to the neighboring cities like those around Atitlan and Antigua.
There´s a level of poverty that western people may not have been exposed to that could be a bit shocking.
Five weeks pass incredibly fast!!

3. What was most difficult to experience?
Meeting 80-100 kids who display the affects of malnutrition, likely as a secondary symptom of a life in poverty, is very difficult. Fortunately this feeling is quickly combated when you their spirit. The most difficult thing was then saying goodbye to all of them. It was a bit surprising how quickly you bond with them.

4. Any tips for future volunteers? (clothing, travel, personal items, donations, etc. ?
Bring many combination of layers. The weather changes a lot throughout the day. Also, don´t bring anything that may have specific drying requirements. The lavanderias only know one way – dry, high heat.

Volunteering in Guatemala

5. Other things volunteers should know?
a. Y´all want to know as much Spanish as possible before you arrive.
b. Xela is high, and the weather is not at all like it is in Guatemala City, Antigua or the coast. Bring warm clothes, and lots of layers.
c. Simple western conveniences like good wifi and hot showers are not often a guarantee.
d. It´s definitely a cash-based community, you won´t often use a credit card.

6. ABV program testimonial (write in your own words about your experience):
After my first full day in Xela I knew I was going to love my time here; in Spanish class, in the after school program, and in my homestay. The local people are friendly and if you have an open mind and like the unexpectedness that is Central America, you too will love it here.

I explored other places and hiked a lot of the weekends, and always looked forward to class Monday morning, followed by the after school program, which was my highlight of every day. Xela has a unique way of finding its way into everyone’s heart.

7. How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security (e.g. host family, on-site, shared)
I was with a host family, which was a first for me. The location was great and my host mom could not have been better. I had a large bedroom to myself and the meals were fantastic. I never felt unsafe there.

8. What was your favorite memory of this trip?
Every one of the twenty days I spent at the project. I found myself looking forward to seeing the kids each day. There was nothing particularly special about each day, they were all just great.

9. How was the ABV USA support prior to traveling?
Overall it was very good. The online chat persons always seemed to be available and answered all of my questions thoroughly. The volunteer orientation packet I received has many references to Ecuador and Peru, despite being titled: Guatemala.

From my first correspondence I was interested and told I´d be volunteering at an orphanage. It was not until a couple of weeks before coming that I learned I would be at the after school program. I was upset because I had wanted to be at an orphanage, and I was told I would be. Ultimately I would not change a thing and I loved my time at the after school program. My expectations could have been better managed.

10. Are you willing to speak to potential ABV volunteers?
Yes

Volunteer Abroad

Volunteer in Guatemala Xela Review Elizabeth Fox Clinic Outpost

1. How were the local ABV coordinators and the support provided in-country?

They were wonderful. We were picked up and taken to host family, and all questions were answered. She helped to coordinate all travel while in Xela and make us feel comfortable.

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced?

The people were so very warm and inviting, even though we had huge language barriers. They always smiled and said hello on the street and were appreciative of all care. Everything is so inexpensive. Surprised we were given the opportunity to do patient consults. Amazing.

3. What was most difficult to experience?

The pollution or air quality while walking, due to no smog control on cars. It sometimes made breathing more difficult. The language barrier is tough for the first few days at the clinic. I was exhausted from learning, and 4 hours of Spanish was too much! ;)

4. Any tips for future volunteers? (clothing, travel, personal items, donations, etc. ?

My sleeping bag was the best item for this cold weather! Bring layers and thermals. Bring a journal. You will use it everyday at night and also at the clinic. Take notes. Try to bring Quetzales before you arrive. Bring enough clothes or use wash service. SNACKS!

Donations: Pulse oximeter, batteries for baby Doppler, more Dopplers

I brought an iPad. Have movies downloaded to watch at night. It was fun! Go to dinner or other meal. It´s cheap and fun. We went to Crossfit Xela and the mall, good experience.

Volunteer in Guatemala

5. Other things volunteers should know?
   a. Be prepared to do a lot of education with patients. Don´t assume they know how to feed babies or how often breastfeed.

b. Jump in. Scary but just do it. Write things down.

c. Allow extra days to travel

d. There was no set schedule or formal written instructions at the clinic. Example: vaccines – we had to learn on the spot and didn´t know names (their different in the USA).

e. Serious lack of hand hygiene. Bring gloves and hand sanitizer, and show education.

6. ABV program testimonial (write in your own words about your experience):

ABV is an excellent organization and I highly recommend it. This was my first volunteer experience, and I´m so happy I chose ABV. I´m a nursing student and came with two friends. It made the experience so much better. The independence given to us in the clinical setting was rewarding. Some days there were not many patients but we cleaned and organized and felt useful. It was perfect that one of our friends spoke Spanish, and could translate for us.

7. How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security (e.g. host family, on-site, shared)

Our host family is wonderful and always sits with us. We loved a house of all women. We loved the house and set up with private rooms. Perfect for me. It was cold, but to be expected. Security was great. Meals good but I need more vegetables and fruit and less bread!

8. What was your favorite memory of this trip?

Walking to the clinic with my friends! Always a new experience. We felt safe. We went out to dinner and lunch and had amazing meals. DO THIS!!

9. How was the ABV USA support prior to travelling?

Excellent; Sarah always emailed back immediately and answered all questions.

10. Are you willing to speak to potential ABV volunteers?

Absolutely!!

* About Spanish class

Our instructors were wonderful. We cut class short a few days but that was ok. Have them take you shopping, to the bank or anywhere else. Good learning experience.

Guatemala Programs

1.     How were the local ABV coordinators and the support provided in-country?

Fantastic! Everything was already arranged for me. Petra showed me the way to and from work/Spanish, and Veronica and Susanne were wonderful. My Spanish teacher Jaime couldn’t have been better.

2.     What was the most surprising thing you experienced?

I think some of the things that surprised me included the people of Guatemala. Jaime and I left the café every day without paying because they simply trusted that we´d be right back.

3.     What was most difficult to experience?

My lack of Spanish! The greatest challenge I faced was definitely the language barrier. However, it was easier with each passing day!

4.     Any tips for future volunteers? (clothing, travel, personal items, donations, etc. ?

My greatest tips is to listen to the advice about warm clothing, and bring a hat! The sun is very bright here.

5.     Other things volunteers should know?

• Bring sunscreen!
• Stay longer than one week!
• Spend as much time with your host family as possible!

6.     ABV program testimonial (write in your own words about your experience):

This experience has been literally life changing. I learned so much from the people here, my Spanish has improved immensely and my outlook on life in general will be different from here on out.

7.     How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security (e.g. host family, on-site, shared)

I cannot sing the praises of Veronica and her family loudly enough. Any volunteer will be very lucky to stay with her.

8.     What was your favorite memory of this trip?

It´s hard to say… Exploring the city, learning the language and developing a family here.

9.     How was the ABV USA support prior to traveling?

Wonderful. The online guide is great, and it allows you to keep track of each step separately. It was very organized and helpful.

10.  Are you willing to speak to potential ABV volunteers?

Absolutely! Send them my way!

Volunteer Review Guatemala

1. How were the local ABV coordinators and the support provided in-country?

She helped coordinate travel and weekend trips. She was great.

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced?

The level of security in every part of Guatemala that I visited. It is like a fortified ramp, with high walls, barbed wire, bars on all the windows and huge locks on all the doors!

3. What was most difficult to experience?

The level of poverty and the relatively low standard of living, even in more middle class areas.

4. Any tips for future volunteers? (clothing, travel, personal items, donations?

None – ABV provides good tips and packing lists.

5. ABV program testimonial (write in your own words about your experience):

ABV was instrumental in providing me with an experience I will never forget. It was bitter-sweet to see how “the other half” lives. It seems they are satisfied with their lives, even though they don´t have much. I was also glad to have an opportunity to learn Spanish and meet travelers from around the world.

Volunteer Guatemala

6. How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security (e.g. host family, on-site, shared)

The host family was great. And the food was abundant and good. My room and bathroom, though not great by American standards, were fine. They were clean and the shower had hot water!

7. What was your favorite memory of this trip?

I´ll always remember the kids of the program. For the most part they were always smiling and having fun playing together. And many of them, especially the youngest ones, craved attention.

8. How was the ABV USA support prior to traveling?

Good. They set up a program for me and ensured that I had a POC in country.

9. Are you willing to speak to potential ABV volunteers?

Yes

How was my Volunteer Abroad Experience in Guatemala?

1. How were the local ABV coordinators and the support provided in-country?

Fantastic. The local support staff checked in on me no less than once a week and was very quick to respond to messages. Communication was extremely clear before and during the trip, and my arrival was coordinated very smoothly. I can´t thank them enough for coordinating my Spanish lessons with such a fantastic teacher.

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced?

There is so much to see and do in and around Xela. It´s also relatively easy to get around to the neighboring cities like those around Atitlan and Antigua.

There´s a level of poverty that western people may not have been exposed to that could be a bit shocking.

Five weeks pass incredibly fast!!

3. What was most difficult to experience?

Meeting 80-100 kids who display the effects of malnutrition, likely as a secondary symptom of a life in poverty, is very difficult. Fortunately this feeling is quickly combated when you their spirit. The most difficult thing was then saying goodbye to all of them. It was a bit surprising how quickly you bond with them.

4. Any tips for future volunteers? (clothing, travel, personal items, donations, etc. ?

Bring many combination of layers. The weather changes a lot throughout the day. Also, don´t bring anything that may have specific drying requirements. The lavanderias only know one way – dry, high heat.

5. Other things volunteers should know?

a. Y´all want to know as much Spanish as possible before you arrive, or take Spanish lessons here.

b. Xela is high, and the weather is not at all like it is in Guatemala City, Antigua or the coast. Bring warm clothes, and lots of layers.

c. Simple western conveniences like good wifi and hot showers are not often a guarantee.

d. It´s definitely a cash-based community, you won´t often use a credit card.

Children program

6. ABV program testimonial (write in your own words about your experience):

After my first full day in Xela I knew I was going to love my time here; in Spanish class, in the afterschool program, and in my homestay. The local people are friendly and if you have an open mind and like the unexpectedness that is Central Americal, you too will love it here. I explored other places and hiked a lot of the weekends, and always looked forward to class Monday morning, followed by the afterschool program, which was my highlight of every day. Xela has a unique way of finding its way into everyone’s heart.

Gap Year Guatemala

7. How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security (e.g. host family, on-site, shared)

I was with a host family, which was a first for me. The location was great and my host mom could not have been better. I had a large bedroom to myself and the meals were fantastic. I never felt unsafe there.

8. What was your favorite memory of this trip?

Every one of the twenty days I spent at the project. I found myself looking forward to seeing the kids each day. There was nothing particularly special about each day, they were all just great.

9. How was the ABV USA support prior to traveling?

Overall it was very good. The online chat persons always seemed to be available and answered all of my questions thoroughly.  From my first correspondence I was interested and told I’d be volunteering at an orphanage. It was not until a couple of weeks before coming that I learned I would be at the afterschool program. I was upset because I had wanted to be at an orphanage, and I was told I would be. Ultimately I would not change a thing and I loved my time at the afterschool program. 

Pictures of our Programs

Volunteer Guatemala

1.  How was the local ABV coordinator and the support provided in-country?

The coordinator was our in-country support and was amazing. Took care of getting us settled in on our first day in the clinic and with our host families. She even helped us organize transportation and hotels for the rest of our trip, which was great.

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced?

The most surprising thing I experienced was how much time we got to spend with our Spanish tutors and how flexible the classes were. I was expecting a more formalized lesson, and it was a pleasant surprise to be able to have a more integrative experience with learning the language, culture and history.

3. What was most difficult to experience?

The Spanish immersion. It has been a very intense experience trying to communicate and understand, and while it has been beneficial and great, the best way to learn, it has been the most challenging aspect.

4. Any tips for future volunteers? (clothing, travel, personal items, donations, etc. ?

1. Spend more time volunteering if you can, more than 1 week, we had 1 week and it was jam-packed.
2. Bring layered clothing, it rains sporadically and nights can be a bit chilly.
3. Bring crisp, clean large bills to exchange at the bank ($50$100, no $20)

5. Other things volunteers should know?

a. Do not flush toilet paper in toilet.
b. Beware of street dogs
c. Beware of traffic – pedestrians do not have the right of way
d. No need to tip, not part of the custom, but welcome

Volunteer Reviews

6. Personal paragraph (ABV program testimonial):

This was truly an amazing experience, it really renewed my faith in altruism and globalization. This was such a holistic experience combining volunteering, culture and language. I loved being able to do some good, while meeting warm, genuine people both local and from abroad. Human connections are really what makes us strong and this experience really solidified that.

7. How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security (e.g. host family, on-site, shared)

Our host family was phenomenal! They made us feel like part of their family, took care of us, taught us, and hung out with us. They made the living experience really great and made us feel welcome and at home.

8. What was your favorite memory of this trip?

Spending time with our host family. We did a night out with our host family and another family, and it was one of the best experiences I´ve had. The bonding and laughing and genuity of it all was truly amazing.

9. How was the ABV USA support prior to traveling?

The support prior to traveling was great. Very receptive and responsive to questions and provided us with all the details we needed, even reminded us of things we had forgotten to submit.

10.  Are you willing to speak to potential ABV volunteers?

Yes.

1.     How was the local ABV coordinator and the support provided in-country?

The local support was very thorough and responsive to any questions or help I needed. They stopped by the shelter a few days to check in with me, helped connect me with other ABV volunteers from the program, and organized side travel and tours.

2.     What was the most surprising thing you experienced?

I was surprised at the comforts at the homestay. The “know before you go” literature made it seem as if it would be rough accommodations and this was not the case.

ABV: we lower expectations as not all houses are the same, but most houses will be middle high class accommodations.

3.     What was most difficult to experience?

The most difficult experience for me was attempting to bond with the girls of the shelter without speaking much Spanish.  I know that had I been here longer, my Spanish would improve and it would be easier to communicate with them and gain their friendship. At times I felt a bit of an outsider with the girls and staff. However, I suppose that is to be expected.

4.     Any tips for future volunteers? (clothing, travel, personal items, donations, etc. ?
Clothing – closed toe shoes, hair ties, rain jacket, high necked shirts, comfy jeans (no leggings to the shelter).

5.     Other things volunteers should know?
a. Bring tissue / toilet paper, it´s hard to come by. Carry in your bag during your travels.

b. Some of the girls/children at the shelter have lice so wear your hair in a braid or bun when holding the children. (bring lice shampoo to give to the shelter)

c. Listen to your host family and ABV directors, travel in pairs, take taxi´s etc.

Volunteer Guatemala

6.     Personal paragraph (ABV program testimonial):

ABV is a great way to get out and make a difference while knowing you are with a reputable organization that will look out for you, prepare you and ensure a great learning experience.

7.     How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security

My host family was so welcoming and I loved hanging out with them. I had my own room but I hear some volunteers have shared accommodations. There were plenty of blankets on my bed but if you get cold easily bring sweats to hang out in at night.

8.     What was your favorite memory of this trip?

Teaching dance to the girls at the shelter to their favorite song and everyone got involved including the staff. It was a really great, lively experience.

9.     How was the ABV USA support prior to traveling?

Great! I didn´t give them a ton of notice I was coming (not recommended), and they answered all of my questions and set everything up for me with short turn around.

10.  Are you willing to speak to potential ABV volunteers?

Yes via email.

Volunteer Guatemala

1. How was the local ABV coordinator and the support provided in-country?

The coordinator was extremely supportive and accommodating. She met up with us almost daily, helped with logistics of volunteering, traveling, communication, currency, and extracurricular activities. She was also extremely engaging and approachable. My experience would not have been as complete or as diverse without her involvement.

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced?

The most surprising thing I experienced was how warm and engaging everyone in Guatemala was, from the program coordinator to my host family to the medical staff I worked with to even the patients.

3. What was most difficult to experience?

The most difficult experience was the need to quickly immerse in the Spanish, especially for someone with minimal Spanish proficiency.

4. Any tips for future volunteers? (clothing, travel, personal items, donations, etc.)

• Layer clothing – weather is variable.
• Comfortable, durable shoes
• Bring crisp, high amount dollar bills (no small bills) for currency exchange
• Beware of street dogs!

5. Other things volunteers should know?

• Take advantage of local cafés and nightlife!
• Ask your host family lots of questions about local recommendations and travel logistics.
• Bring gifts for the host family.
• Consider bandages / blister covers for foot protection.

Volunteer Reviews

6. Personal paragraph (ABV program testimonial):

I personally thought this was a life changing opportunity. ABV was able to provide a complete experience for me in terms of volunteering and culturally. Would recommend it to anyone.

7. How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security (e.g. host family, on-site, shared)

Extremely accommodating and social. You are fully immersed with your host family and will eat meals with them often. I felt very safe with my accommodations, and felt that my host family was really my family.

8. What was your favorite memory of this trip?

My favorite memory was going out with my host family one night to get chocolate drinks at a café. There was much laughter and my friends and family were full of jokes and pranks the entire night.

9. How was the ABV USA support prior to travelling?

Their email response was very quick. I was actually a last minute addition to my group, and this was done very efficiently and seamlessly. The instructions were easy to navigate and all questions were answered thoroughly and quickly.

10. Are you willing to speak to potential ABV volunteers?

Yes.

Volunteer Guatemala

1. How were the local ABV coordinators and the support provided in-country?

She was great and I had all the support I needed. I could text/call at virtually any hour and she would respond. She also helped me set up trips and excursions, which was really helpful.

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced?

It was surprising to see how much of American culture – movies, restaurants, bands – could be found in Guatemala.

3. What was most difficult to experience?

One of the children had a tooth that had an awful cavity. He was in a lot of pain, but his family couldn´t afford a dentist. Seeing him cry and not being able to help was awful.

ABV: if you can provide us with the name of the child, what classroom, we will send a donation to help him with that and donors can help us him here https://www.paypal.me/abroaderview

4.     Any tips for future volunteers? (clothing, travel, personal items, donations, etc. ?
Xela is rarely hot – bring more pants and long sleeves than t-shirts. If you wear glasses bring a backup pair.

5.     Other things volunteers should know?
a. The food is different than in America – expect meat with bones etc.

b. On average the people are very approachable

c. The sun is much stronger here than in North America

d.  You can barter for taxi fair.

6. Personal paragraph (ABV program testimonial):

I didn´t really know what to expect when I arrived, but I kept an open mind and had an amazing time. I learned so much Spanish, ate amazing food, and met some great people.

Volunteer in Guatemala

7. How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security

My host family was very nice. Our home was set up in 2 sections – one for the family, one for us visitors, but we ate all our meals together. The food was excellent, but was mostly meat and bread.

8. What was your favorite memory of this trip?

A local family hired me to teach English to their son, and had me over for dinner, where I met the entire extended family – it was an awesome experience.

9. How was the ABV USA support prior to traveling?

They were concise, clear and responsive. It definitely put me at ease and made me feel supported.

10.  Are you willing to speak to potential ABV volunteers?

Of course.

She was perfect, she was the epitome of calm and support.  She completely stopped what she was doing to answer questions or give us direction.  Irma and Alan of the after-school program were also especially accommodating.  Everyone of them was also fun to be with.

Shelter program

2) What was the most surprising thing you experienced?

I was surprised by how much I wanted to completely uproot my life and move it to Xela.  I loved the people, the food and the language.

3) What was the most difficult to experience?

Leaving the children was definitely the most difficult experience, especially at the shelter.  The girls at the shelter had deep deep hurt.  They wore so much of it on their faces, I wanted to take them all home with me.

4) Any tips for future volunteers (clothing/travel/personal items)

Bring a full size towel for the home stay or buy one locally and leave it for your host family.  It is a nice gesture, but you will fall in love with your hosts and truly want to leave something.  An umbrella, a sweater and short sleeved shirt everyday, because everyday has extremes.  Oh, and wash the dishes for your hostess. It is the least one can do for the all that they do for you.

5) Other things volunteers should know?

Xelapan has tremendous pastries!

Did I mention a trip to Xelapan?

Xelapan cream filled anything?

Xelapan!

6) ABV Testimonial

This week was an amazing experience. On my first day at the shelter, I saw two girls separate themselves and cry huge shoulder heaving tears without sound.  One told me she had only been there two days.  I sat with them, held their hands, kept their hair out of their eyes.  Their hurt was so deep.  I told them how important they were. They clung to me when I saw them two days later, they ran to me.  On the last day she barely left my side and just kept hugging me.  Before I left, she told me she would never forget me.  I know I will never forget her.

7) How would you describe your accommodations meals/security

Jovita was more perfect than perfect.  She was so sweet and helpful.  She was also an excellent cook.  I loved the stories we told around the table (sobre mesa).  It drew us even closer together.  I could have moved in forever!

8) What was your favorite memory of this trip?

There are too many to choose from.  I loved all of the children’s arms around my waist, the warmth of the Xela people, the hot springs, the weaving opportunity, our hostess, our program heads, the food (Xelapan!) the fabrics, and how close we all became as a group.

9) How was the ABV USA support prior to traveling?

They were very helpful in answering questions and making certain we had all our paperwork in.  They were quick to get back to us.

10) Are you willing to speak to potential ABV volunteers?

Absolutely!  Any time.