Guatemala Quetzaltenango (Xela) Orphanage Children Program

Volunteers will help to work with underprivileged students who are not able to attend school. While this is a daily necessity for most western countries, Guatemala’s disadvantaged youth do not have an absolute right to education. We are looking for Spanish-speaking volunteers who can assist in local schools and aid with English classes. Volunteers should also serve as role models and guides to give these children an improved world view. Volunteers must be comfortable with working with primary school children. Schools are closed from December to mid-January.

Volunteer Duties:

Assist in teaching English as well as helping to teach sports. You can also assist with creative classes such as arts (painting and drawing), crafts, theater, and dance. Volunteers should interact with the children through cooking lessons, fun singing activities, and environmental lessons. You can add a Spanish Immersion Course to this volunteer opportunity.

Volunteers must arrive in Guatemala in the morning since the last bus to Xela leaves at 3PM. We do not include an overnight stay in Guatemala City as a part of our program cost. You also must arrange your departure from Guatemala City for after 2PM.

Volunteer Application Process

Research your flights, the program location and determine your desired start dates. ABV program fees are based on 7 night increments (example 1 month is 28 nights = 4 weeks).

When you have your travels plans decided, click the APPLY ONLINE button on the ABV home page. Log In and create your own personal profile.

Fill out the application form in its entirety. This includes uploading your resume/CV and completing the online questionnaire. Incomplete (or inactive) applications will be deleted within 7 days of receipt. If you have any doubts, call or email the ABV office to verify your application was actually received by us.

Upon submission of your completed application, expect an email confirmation from ABV within 24/48 hours. Follow the instructions provided and Log In to your personal profile.

Read and Sign the online Volunteer Service Agreement, and the Participants Contract. Follow the payment instructions to pay your US$120 deposit.

After paying the US$120 deposit you will be emailed an Orientation Guide, the Pre-trip check list and your invoice. Log in to your profile for updates.

Bookmark the ABV Log In. This is your main source of information: flights, travel insurance, payment deadlines and project details. If you have any questions, ask us!

Work with underprivileged children
Expand your worldview
Help improve their education prospects
Teach fun classes like painting, drawing, theater, and sports
Lead students in fun activities like singing and cooking lessons

Spanish