Volunteer In Guatemala
We offer a world of opportunities for our volunteers in Guatemala, which in turn enable you to use your unique skills and experiences to contribute to our school. From creating and delivering after-school clubs for our students, working on existing projects, or working one-to-one with our students, our volunteers are key to all that we do.
You can apply directly to us or via an agency. We’ve worked with Go Overseas, Go Abroad and Volunteer Match.
Some volunteers work as classroom assistants, where they prepare materials, help with classroom management, assist with lessons and work with students that need some extra help. Others work as administrative assistants or help with after school clubs. Some work as interns for our Education and Outreach offices.
No matter your language level or skill sets, we will find a vital role for you to fill! Our volunteers come from all over the world, bringing new perspectives to our organization. As a volunteer, you will be supporting economically disadvantaged families, children and young adults. We guarantee your time as a volunteer with EFTC will be a valuable learning experience.
Contact Us
If you are interested in volunteering with the wonderful students at the School of Hope, or have any questions, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator at
visitors@eftcfoundation.org
FAQs
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You must be aged 18 or over at the time you apply to volunteer. If you are younger, you are still welcome to join us, but you must be accompanied by an adult. Volunteers must work at the school for a minimum of one week, but you are encouraged to stay for as long as you want!
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Send us a copy of your resume to visitors@eftcfoundation.org.
We will get back to you with current volunteering opportunities within a week of receiving your application.
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Volunteers usually prefer to live in the nearby town of Antigua rather than Jocotenango, as it offers a wide array of attractions, such as cafes, Spanish schools, vibrant restaurants, bars and beautiful ancient ruins and churches.
You can choose your own accommodation or stay with one of our trusted ‘host families’ in the town of Antigua. They generally charge around Q750 (about £77 / $93 / €87) per person, per week. This includes breakfast and dinner 5 days a week. You would have your own bedroom and a shared bathroom, dining room and living area. Depending on the time of year you visit there might be other volunteers living in the same house. If you are part of a group of people traveling together, we have large enough host houses to enable you all to stay with one another.
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Our school is located about 15 minutes from the beautiful town of Antigua, a vibrant yet peaceful colonial town and the most popular destination for visitors to Guatemala.
Antigua feels like a portal to another century. The almost 500-year-old city is cradled by three volcanoes and filled with colonial-era mansions, churches and convents. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
In addition to the striking 17th and 18th century ruins in the center of the town, Antigua offers an array of restaurants, boutiques and bars with live music. Visitors can browse the craft markets, sip on an espresso at a coffee farm, watch a film or play at one of the many cultural centers or walk up the Cerro de la Cruz to get an amazing view of the whole town (source: The NY Times).
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We understand that when signing up to volunteer there’s many questions to be asked. We’ve had hundreds of volunteers from across the globe over the years. We encourage potential volunteers to talk to those that have previously made the journey. For a wonderful insight - listen to our recent podcast with previous 6 month intern Lauren Martin.
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The School of Hope is situated just north of Antigua, in Jocotenango,
Sacatepéquez. We serve students from the surrounding areas in a holistic education: from nutrition, to learning, to psychology and special education. As a volunteer, you have the opportunity to make an impact on students of all ages in all departments while also exploring the beautiful town of Antigua, full of rich history and experiences including ruins, volcanoes, and Guatemalan culture.
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We have openings in all departments and the flexibility to tailor the experience to your skills and goals! Common volunteering opportunities include: English classroom assistant, Primary classroom assistant, outreach intern, social media/photography intern, psychology and special education interns, and so much more!
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We arrive at 8am Monday-Friday to greet the students and start the day in the
classrooms. Depending on your role, you may switch classrooms throughout the day, or join kids for the PE and recess time. At around 10am, we offer a snack and at 12pm, we have lunch. Volunteers are welcome to eat the school lunch with the kids, or explore Jocotenango for more options. Students dismiss around 2:15 or 2:45 depending on their grade. If you’re working in the offices, the day ends at 4pm. We can work with your schedule if you wish to work half days or want to take time to travel.
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Our most popular option is a homestay. We have connections with a few “host
moms” in Antigua who live within walking distance to the School of Hope. You’ll have your own room in the house and receive breakfast and dinner, Monday through Friday. Host moms are very accommodating to dietary restrictions and other needs, and it is a great way to practice your Spanish!
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While Spanish is not required for all positions, it is definitely helpful! For
working in our internship positions, a conversational level is highly
recommended. If you have less than a conversational level, you may be
placed in an English classroom to assist with students in a bit of Spanglish ;)
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Yes! With awareness and common sense, you can navigate Antigua very securely. Antigua is full of tourists and very kind people willing to help you find your way around.
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We’re so excited to have you on board! Send us an email at visitors@eftcfoundation.org with your desired duration and department at the foundation to get started!