SERVICE LEARNING

Most days in Guatemala start with several hours volunteering on a service-learning project. Participants choose between cookstove installation, reforestation, work on a coffee farm, or service in a local hospital.

GL International’s service-learning philosophy is also one of humility – participants are not there to fix a problem or to help the helpless. They work alongside Guatemalans on projects the local community has deemed valuable or necessary, learning about the potential for solidarity and service within the Central American contexts. For that reason, service projects often change from one year to the next, as our local partners work with the community to identify where need exists.  GLers have much to learn from their Guatemalan counterparts, and by working together – building team bonds and strong relationships – they do. GL staff, along with host country staff and student work-team leaders, develop meaningful and challenging discussions and reflections to help participants unpack and understand the experiences they have.

The biggest goal of service learning abroad is that our students step out of their comfort zones. After their year-long participation in service and leadership at home, they have developed the skills, awareness, openness, and confidence to act. Service-learning abroad is an opportunity to put those skills into practice in a much different context. By overcoming new barriers – different language, different cultural background, different values – students are even more empowered to lead the charge to any challenge, and effect positive change.