Guatemala Quetzaltenango (Xela) Womans' Support Program

As a volunteer with the program, you will be able to work with elderly women in a residential care center. Many of the residents of this center are without any other options for housing and care. Some were even left by their families. These women are provided with, for free, housing, meals, clothing, medical treatment, and any therapy that they require. Many women in Latin America are the strength of their family, so it is only right that they live their lives with respect, dignity, and in an encouraging environment. This program can be combined with medical projects since volunteers need to assist with giving health checks like examining blood pressure, sugar levels, and, at times, giving medication and provide physical therapy.

Volunteers will also assist in engaging and fun activities, preparing food, feeding some of the women, talking to them and hearing their stories, and reading to them. Our volunteers for this project need to be very strong in their Spanish abilities.

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!

Helping elderly women who deserve care and attention
Improving your Spanish abilities
Learning about a different culture
Assisting in some medical procedures like health checks

English, Spanish