In January I traveled to Guatemala with a team of Buckner volunteers and President/CEO Dr. Albert Reyes. The school year begins for Guatemalan students in January, so each year a group goes to provide backpacks, school supplies, and a new pair of shoes for children in need.
As a board member, I knew Buckner’s programs centered on education, financial empowerment, child development, and family counseling for struggling communities. But I had no idea of the scope of services or their impact. The goal of these Family Hope Centers is to support and strengthen families before significant problems arise or worsen.
Throughout the trip, we experienced diverse aspects of Guatemalan life. The first day, a luncheon celebrated Foster Care Families and was attended by the outgoing First Lady, Patricia Marroquin, who spoke graciously to families and volunteers.
The remaining days were dedicated to distributing backpacks and shoes. We drove up into the mountains to a remote school, Las Nubes, where hundreds of children and parents showed up — many walking long distances. Each child was fed a hot snack and took a bagged meal home. Families had traced their children’s feet months ahead so we could provide shoes that fit. Our job was to wash each child’s feet and place new socks and shoes on them — each pair containing a note of encouragement from a volunteer back in Dallas. I wish I could convey the pride and excitement of the students.
We also distributed supplies at the Family Hope Center in San Jose Pinula and at a church in Antigua. In all, we served over 700 children, toured the Jocotenango center, and visited two families receiving services. The evidence of positive change was powerful. I now completely understand why the same volunteers return year after year — the work is impactful, and being part of it for a few days is irresistible.