Guatemala enchants with its colonial cities, stunning highlands, vibrant indigenous culture, and Mayan ruins like Tikal. The colorful markets and active volcanoes offer endless adventures.

In Guatemala, nearly 59 percent of people live in poverty, including 23 percent in extreme poverty. NGOs receive about 65 percent of their funding internationally, with local giving under 10 percent. Rural indigenous highland areas face severe malnutrition and gender inequality. Volunteers engaged in nutrition education, child literacy, and women’s rights initiatives make a powerful difference in community progress.