Working with the Elderly Volunteer Project in Guatemala - Antigua

The kids I taught were amazing. They were enthusiastic, full of energy and were willing to learn. This makes the experience so much easier to enjoyable because you can see the progress the kids are making. They trust and affection the kids shows you is so precious. Every weekend, I was able to see many of the beautiful sites in Guatemala, like Atitlan Lake, climbing Acatenango, Tikal and Semuc Champey. I was also able to learn some Mayan history and culture.

It was important for me to have my team gain exposure to a country and community that we could not easily access. The collaboration between IVHQ, the local team, and community partner brought the exact experience I wanted for my team. As my initial point of contact, IVHQ made the planning and preparation for the trip easy and seamless. I would highly encourage anyone looking to conduct a volunteer opportunity in a foreign nation to give IVHQ a try!

I learned so much during my time volunteering in Guatemala. I learned that I am capable of much more than I knew, I reached beyond my limits and expanded my comfort zone, I met so many amazing people who were supportive and kind, I learned about how much work and effort it takes to sustainably grow a variety of plants and vegetables, and I was able to see/immerse myself in a new culture that I would never have been able to fully understand without living and seeing.

I would 1000% recommend joining this program or one similar for all these reasons and so many more. I would say that if you are hesitant, just go for it!! Don’t hold yourself back from a wonderful experience!!

First, don't be hesitant about going with IVHQ. I've volunteerd with MANY other organizations and find them the best and the least expensive. Two issues I regard when making reservations to go out of the country. Ask all your questions before you go, and read all the literature they send you including books about the country. I read four amazing books about the history of Guatemala and it allowed me to look at them and us (USA) quite differently. I came back with open eyes and open heart and know the US does not know how to care for disabled children, adults, or older adults the way they should and can for all the money we through at this system in the US, it is broken. Go change the world and come back with new ideas and a new you.

I’m so impressed with IVHQ and the local team! An experience to remember. I’m already recommending it to everyone I know.

I tell everyone I know that my time in Guatemala was the best thing I've ever done. I experienced every emotion possible and discovered I could do things I never would have known I could do. I am now considering studying physical therapy after my time doing exercises with the residents at my placement. I relive those four weeks in my head all the time and I can't wait for my next trip. Again, thank you. Also thank you to the local team and the medical leader there. He is the kindest and most intelligent person I met there.