We are happy to introduce our partner, Niños de Guatemala, an organization dedicated to helping children from less fortunate families gain access to education.
Education is one of the best ways to break the cycle of poverty, which is why we have chosen to collaborate with Niños de Guatemala. Currently, they provide education to 540 children in Ciudad Vieja, covering both primary and middle school. Additionally, they offer a one-year after-school program designed to help youth transition into professional careers in tourism. This program combines theory with practical experience at a company, and many participants secure jobs with their internship hosts.
What we love about Niños de Guatemala is that they go beyond the standard curriculum set by the Ministry of Education. They take a holistic approach to education, offering psychological and mental support, and providing access to a social worker who is available daily at the school. They also offer classes in art, creativity, and other subjects beyond the required curriculum.
Understanding that some children may not receive proper nutrition at home, Niños de Guatemala provides a daily meal at school. They aim to do even more, but they rely on donations and support from local businesses. The school does not pay kitchen staff; instead, parents volunteer to help with various tasks, including cooking and cleaning. This community involvement helps keep operational costs low and allows more children to attend school.
How is all this funded? Niños de Guatemala is an NGO that relies on non-governmental income sources. Visitors to Guatemala can volunteer at the school, usually teaching English and other subjects. This is a wonderful way to experience life in Guatemala. Volunteers pay a small fee to participate, and many choose to sponsor a child after their experience. There are several sponsorship models available. The school also offers guided tours that generate income, including visits to a Chicken Bus workshop where old American school buses are transformed into colorful, vibrant vehicles. Other tours include city walks, cooking classes, and volcano hikes. You can learn more about their offerings here: Book a Tour - Niños de Guatemala.
You might be wondering how From the Mayan collaborates with Niños de Guatemala. We have created a special collection of our famous authentic handmade Mayan handicrafts specifically for this project. These products are priced the same as our regular items, but 20% of the revenue goes directly to Niños de Guatemala. This way, you can share another beautiful story when you purchase your authentic Mayan handicrafts from us.
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