By Heather Graham | Executive Director
CASA GUATEMALA: THE RIPPLE EFFECT
Jan 14 2026 | Bridging the Gap in Rio Dulce
REDEFINING WHAT IT MEANS TO UPLIFT A CHILD
A Message from Heather Graham, Executive Director
At the heart of Rio Dulce, Casa Guatemala is doing more than just providing a classroom. We are creating a story of resilience and creativity. Our mission is simple but profound: to meet children exactly where they are and help them grow into where they’re meant to be.
As we look back on a successful 2025 and move into the new year, we continue to serve 230 students, providing them not just with an education, but with the nutrition, healthcare, and safety they need to thrive.
THE SPIRIT OF GIVING: CHRISTMAS AT CASA GUATEMALA
We recently successfully completed our annual Christmas celebration, a magical experience for over 500 children and their families. This cherished tradition is the most satisfying day of the year for our team, embodying our year-round spirit: to give with love and gratitude.
The preparations were a true community effort. At Hotel Backpackers, we prepared a feast of roasted chicken, gravy, and mashed potatoes, while over at Casa Guatemala, our staff worked tirelessly to prepare 700 traditional tamales. This labor of love began days in advance, with everyone helping to toast ingredients, butcher the pig, prepare banana leaves, and steam the tamales to perfection.
The day culminated in the gymnasium, beautifully transformed for a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Each family was given the opportunity to take a professional photo, creating a lasting memory of their children growing up within this tradition. Sharing this joy with our neighbors and loved ones is a highlight of our mission.
BEYOND THE CLASSROOM: A NEW FRONTIER IN HEALTH
Expanded Dental Clinic Services
We are thrilled to announce that our clinic has expanded to include a fully operational dental clinic. This year, we will be hosting international teams of dentists throughout the year to provide expert care.
Crucially, this service is not limited to the children of Casa Guatemala; it is available to hundreds of children from the surrounding communities, ensuring that the ripple effect of your support improves the health and wellness of the entire region.
THE NEW DIGITAL FRONTIER: PIVOTING FOR THE FUTURE
Our New Digital Literacy Program is now fully operational! Our state-of-the-art computer lab ensures our graduates possess the digital competency and personal confidence to navigate the modern job market. We aren't just giving them a diploma; we are giving them the tools for self-determination.
BY THE NUMBERS: 2025 IMPACT SUMMARY
230 Students received free boarding, nutrition, and schooling.
99% Retention Rate: A testament to the trust our families placed in us in 2025.
100% Transition: Every Grade 6 graduate moved forward into our Scholarship Program.
90% Parent Participation: Communities are active partners in this change.
MEET THE LEADERS BEHIND THE CHANGE
Led by a team of 44 full-time employees, including:
Lilian Duarte (General Director): A cornerstone of our school since 2000.
Elmer Ramos (Admin Director & Board President): A lawyer and alumnus of Casa Guatemala who now manages our institutional transparency.
Armando Milla (Head of Logistics and Maintenance): Keeping our transportation, construction, agriculture and solar power and water systems running off-grid since 1994.
GET INVOLVED
Our support systems remain flexible and sustainable because of you.
Visit Our Website to Donate or Volunteer!
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