This project is based in an underprivileged neighbourhood where it supports children living and working in extreme poverty, or those at risk of ending up on the streets. It also works with women and families in the community to help them become more financially self-sufficient.
There’s a lunchroom where local kids can get a nutritious meal, and an after-school program packed with fun and learning. Every afternoon, around 70 to 80 children aged 6 to 14 come to the centre for support, connection, and activities in a safe environment.
There’s always something to do here! As a volunteer, you’ll help with a range of tasks across the program:
You’ll have flexibility in how you join the daily routine. Some example schedules include:
If you're passionate about working with kids, want to experience local Guatemalan culture, and are up for a rewarding challenge, this project is for you! Join an amazing team, bring your energy and ideas, and help create a brighter future for these young legends.
Mijs vrijwilliger in Guatemala
Het heeft mij doen inzien hoeveel hulp er nodig is op ieder klein plekje op de wereld.
Anouk in Guatemala
Als je in de juiste tijd gaat zie je bijna elke dag wel baby schildpadjes die je dan mag vrijlaten op het strand wat echt super schattig is!
Marleen in Guatamala
Met name het vrijwilligerswerk ga ik missen!!!
Working Hours:
This project runs from Monday to Thursday, from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
Other Colleagues / Who You Work With:
There are five permanent staff members at this project. A few of the mothers also help with preparing lunch.
Language Spoken at the Project:
You’ll need basic Spanish skills to volunteer at this project.
Holiday Periods:
The project is closed during Semana Santa (14 April – 20 April) and from mid-December until the first Monday of January.
Accommodation:
In Guatemala, you’ll stay with a host family, the perfect way to experience daily life and local culture. You’ll also improve your Spanish skills by practising daily. You’ll have your own bedroom, and usually share the bathroom and toilet with the rest of the family. Three meals a day are provided, and the family will do their best to make your stay unforgettable.
Transport To and From the Project:
You’ll use public transport to get to the project. From your host family, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the main square where you catch a bus. The ride takes around 15 minutes, followed by another 10-minute walk to the project.
Materials That Would Be Helpful for the Project:
If you’ve got a bit of extra space in your bag and want to bring something for the project, it would be greatly appreciated. Just check with us beforehand for useful suggestions.
Airport Pick-Up:
We’ll pick you up from Guatemala City airport and take you to your host family. If you arrive before 1:30pm, Hugo will collect you and take you to the bus station. If you arrive after 1:30pm, you’ll be taken to a hostel for the night. The next day, Hugo will pick you up and take you to the bus station where you’ll catch a bus to Quetzaltenango (Xela). At your final destination, our local contact will be waiting for you.
Free Time:
Check out our optional trips to see what you can do in your spare time! We have some amazing excursions lined up, and since you're in such a stunning part of the world, it’s the perfect chance to explore more of the country.
Learning Spanish in Guatemala:
If you don’t (yet) speak much Spanish, you can choose to take lessons while you’re there. It’s a unique and immersive way to learn and you’ll pick it up quickly from the locals. In Guatemala, you can choose from both private and group lessons.
Your Contact Person:
Petra is the local contact person in Guatemala.
For this project, we’re looking for volunteers who want to contribute to the wellbeing of children in an underprivileged neighbourhood. You’ll help prepare and serve lunch, support after-school care, and assist with activities like homework support.
This project is suitable for volunteers aged 17 and over.
Affinity with Childcare and Education:
A passion for working with children is essential. Experience in education or care is a bonus.
Initiative and Proactivity:
Being able to work independently and take initiative is important. You’ll help organise and guide a variety of activities.
Patience and Empathy:
It’s important to be understanding and patient when working with children in vulnerable situations.
Cultural Sensitivity:
Respect for local customs and traditions is essential, along with a willingness to learn from the local culture.
Flexibility and Adaptability:
You’ll need to be flexible and adaptable to various conditions in Guatemala.
Communication Skills:
Good communication is vital for working alongside local staff and other volunteers.
Team Spirit:
Teamwork is key. A positive attitude and willingness to collaborate with others is essential for a successful experience.
As a volunteer, you’ll help prepare and serve lunch, run after-school activities like sports, games, and creative projects, and offer homework support. Working hours vary but are typically Monday to Thursday from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
Your time in Guatemala offers opportunities for personal and professional growth, discovering new cultures, and gaining unforgettable life experiences.
If you’re passionate about childcare and education and ready to make a difference in a challenging but rewarding environment, this project in Guatemala is perfect for you. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of these children.
We completely understand that having your child volunteer overseas can feel like a big step. In fact, it’s often just as exciting for parents as it is for the young person themselves, and sometimes even a little more nerve-racking. That’s why we want to reassure you that your child is in good hands.
Since 2004, we’ve been supporting volunteers and have guided many young people through meaningful international experiences.
We take safety seriously. That begins with carefully selecting our partner organisations, volunteer projects, and host families. Every placement is thoroughly checked to make sure it meets our high standards for safety, support, and ethical practices.
Our experienced and caring local contacts are always there to support volunteers throughout their journey. From clear pre-departure preparation to personal assistance during the project, we’re available to help whenever needed.
We believe strongly in open communication. You're always welcome to contact us with any questions or concerns. We’re here not only for the volunteers, but for their families too.
You can feel confident knowing we are fully committed to creating a safe, supportive, and positive experience. Your child’s wellbeing, safety, and overall happiness are our top priorities.
If there's anything you’d like to ask or talk through, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We're here to support you every step of the way.
Warm regards,
The Volunteer Worldwide Team
1 week of volunteering: $749
2 weeks of volunteering: $1349
3 weeks of volunteering: $1799
$299 for each additional week
*All prices are in AUD
Online introductory meeting
Information pack with details about the culture and customs in Guatemala, as well as an overview of all preparations you need to make, including information about insurance, money matters, and other travel tips
Pre-departure training
Help with obtaining a police check (VOG)
Access to the online community
Support with your visa application
Help booking your flight (on request)
Airport transfer to the project
On-site introduction
Assistance with visa extension (if needed)
Support throughout your entire stay
Accommodation in the volunteer house
Three meals a day
Evaluation session
Certificate (on request)
Option to stay active in our WhatsApp community
Memories for life!
Flight ticket
Vaccinations
Visa
Police check (VOG)
Travel insurance
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