Volunteering in the projects run by 32 Volcanes has been one of the most rewarding and, honestly, life-changing experiences of my professional and personal life. I first became involved as a Spanish language student in 2005, when Carmencita, Roney, and the projects were still part of the Spanish language school. I was immediately struck by the passion and dedication of Carmencita and Roney—even though I spoke VERY little Spanish at the time.
Over time, my involvement deepened as I continued to volunteer and take on more responsibilities as the Guarderia/Family Support Center coordinator. Seeing the former participants become the teachers and leaders of the Family Support Center has been one of the happiest successes that I’ve witnessed in Xela. They are giving back to their community and are an inspiration to the children who currently participate in the program.
As a social worker I appreciate how 32 Volcanes sees the interconnectedness of the educational, health, and environmental problems and interventions. Every 32 Volcanes project is community-driven and focused on long-term change.
After nearly 20 years of collaboration, I remain committed to the projects and the vision of 32 Volcanes. I continue to support 32 Volcanes both onsite and via my role on the Foundation Todos Juntos board of directors. I’ve witnessed their impact—not just in numbers, but in the lives and stories of the people and communities they serve. They are changing Guatemala one child, one patient, and one community garden at a time. I am proud to have been a part of their story and look forward to many more years of collaboration.