Pura Vida
Project Information
Creating a brighter future for children in Guatemala.
Describe the need affecting community
Guatemala is one of the poorest countries in the western hemisphere, and faces special challenges due to the large indigenous population and the recent civil war. Fundamental issues in Guatemala exist on a scale not seen in most developed countries. Rural Guatemalans, especially the indigenous, face some very serious challenges, especially in the areas of health, poverty, literacy, and human rights. In meetings with Pura Vida, Guatemalan villagers they have repeatedly stressed the need for education.
How will this Advance project help to address the need?
Pura Vida has been offering scholarships in rural Guatemala since 2002. We have been working closely with parents to help them understand the long-term benefits of keeping children in school longer. These benefits are already becoming apparent we have been tracking the academic progress of our students over the last 10 years, and we are seeing a huge increase in the number of students graduating from high school and even a fair amount (25) entering university.
Describe the primary goal of the project
To provide opportunities for underprivileged children in rural Guatemala to continue their education as far as they desire.
Describe the change you would like to see in the community as a result of this Advance project
We would hope to see more students stay in school longer. More students graduating from high school. More students completing 3 years of university. More students working in professional fields once they leave the program.