The Godchild Project
Guatemala Volunteer Placement

This project offers poor children and families in Antigua a permanent way to break out of poverty. These programs address both the present and future needs of very poor children by providing food, shelter, clothing, education, medical care, structure, guidance and the support they need to one day make it on their own. There is a free clinic, a full time psychologist, a mothers’ club that supports civic events, a dental clinic and a food distribution program. Provides medical care, food and clothing through a godchild (sponsorship) project.

Depends on experience. Volunteers can organize events based on their special skills: sewing, music, art, or based on their previous work experiences. Skilled help is needed leading discussions on family planning, HIV/AIDS, drug and alcohol abuse, etc. For these, volunteers should come prepared with their own materials in order to discuss the topics. Volunteers will also help with newsletter mailings, working in the kitchen, and organizing children’s activities. Some volunteers choose to be teachers’ assistant or tutor children in the afternoons. Tutoring is one on one and will therefore require an advanced level of Spanish. Students with special skill such as Social Workers, Dentists, Nurses, Doctors, and Carpenters are welcome.

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 8:00am- 12:30pm and 14:00-17:00.

Location of Placements: Antigua

Lodging: Homestay or Volunteer residence in Antigua.

• Minimum age: 18 years.
• Minimum commitment: 4 weeks.
• Minimum Spanish level: High-Intermediate
• Self-motivated, creative and patient volunteers.
• Skilled volunteers will receive skilled projects.
• Compassion for children.

• Interactions with children and their families will require a good grasp of Spanish.
• Volunteers should be prepared to deal with extreme poverty.