Cross-Cultural Solutions, Guatemala

Volunteering abroad is the chance for you to make a personal contribution at the global level, to experience hands-on learning about another country and culture, and to exchange ideas with people you might not otherwise meet. Making a difference can be as simple as spending time with orphans, sharing love and affection, sharing stories and photos with the elderly in a community, or practicing basic English with students of all ages.

Volunteering abroad is a life-changing experience. You are sharing your enthusiasm, time, skills, and energy -- and giving "yourself" in a way that allows you to effect positive change. You are learning about another country and culture, exchanging ideas with people you might not otherwise meet

Cross-Cultural Solutions is a recognized leader in the field of international volunteering with over 4,000 international volunteers each year. We have placements in the fields of social services, education, and health with over 250 sustainable community initiatives. Volunteers stay in a safe and comfortable Home-Base with in-country staff that is always from the area. This ensures that your volunteer project interests you and contributes directly to the goals of each community.

Setting: As a volunteer in Guatemala , you will experience first-hand one of the world's most diverse and historically rich nations. The population includes Ladinos, or people of Spanish heritage, Mayans, and Mestizos, people who are a mix of both Ladino and Mayan. The Mayan population is made up of 22 different ethnicities all with their own unique dress and language that distinguishes them.
Volunteers stay at the CCS Home-Base. Here, you'll have the chance to connect with CCS staff and fellow volunteers, enjoy healthy, authentic meals, reflect on your experiences, or just relax. We take care of all of your daily needs, including transportation to and from your volunteer placement. The CCS Office is even located in the Home-Base, giving you unlimited access to our staff and all they have to offer. By providing a CCS Home-Base with a full-time staff, we create a safe and warm environment for all of our volunteers without ever burdening the local community.

Program: Cross-Cultural Solutions first began accepting volunteers in Guatemala in the summer of 2003 in the capital, Guatemala City . With hundreds of enthusiastic returned volunteers from all around the world spreading the word, the need to expand in Guatemala became apparent. In the Spring of 2007, CCS opened in Quetzaltenango, the nation's second largest city. In Quetzaltenango, volunteers have the opportunity to explore the city's intriguing Mayan heritage and experience the excitement of Guatemala 's second most populous city.
As a volunteer with CCS, you'll experience and enjoy a safe and structured program designed to help you truly immerse yourself in the local culture. You'll work side-by-side with local people at dynamic grassroots organizations that provide health, education, employment, and social assistance to the community, enjoy cultural and learning activities such as guest speakers and language lessons, and have ample free time to travel and explore the community on your own. You'll gain an understanding of the complex challenges that the community faces, and join them in effecting positive change.

Referrals: "I loved everything about Guatemala , and I can truly say that this trip was one of the most valuable and memorable experiences I've ever had."
Grace K., Age 16, Guatemala Volunteer

"Listening to my fellow volunteers speak so passionately about NGO's, globalization, international relations, etc, made me want to continue to be involved in bettering our global community. It caused me to think and go deeper, as well as broadened my perspectives on various subjects. The experience also taught me a lot about myself and what I am capable of."
Mirelle, Age 16, Guatemala Volunteer

"My experience in Guatemala has changed my life. I left with an understanding of the customs and traditions of the country as well as a working level of Spanish and a new insight into developing nations and poverty and it effects."
Jennifer, Age 17, Guatemala Volunteer