Education for Impoverished Guatemalan Youth

Below are profiles of two students who have benefited greatly in the last year from your support of education for at-risk youth in Guatemala.

Fourteen-year old Josselyn dropped out of school in 2009 and did not continue in 2010 because of family problems. Early last year, she moved out of her parents’ house and in with her grandmother.

Over the course of 2010, Common Hope staff provided emotional support for Josselyn and motivated her to start school again. They also referred her to youth support activities, and since then, Josselyn has become one of the more active participants.

Youth support coordinator Jovita Tay has noted a change in Josselyn’s demeanor over the past few months. “She participates and seems happier and more excited,” says Jovita. In late 2010, Josselyn decided to return to school for the 2011 school year. She is currently studying in 7^th grade.

Seventeen-year old Juan Carlos has always had trouble with school. He repeated one year of junior high, and continually had problems passing classes.

In early 2010, Juan was unsure whether he wanted to go on to high school, but with motivation from his parents and Common Hope he decided to continue, choosing marketing and publicity as his career path. “He is happy with his choice and even won a logo-making competition at school,” says Jovita. Juan Carlos is also an active participant in youth support activities.  

Thank you!

Many thanks to all of you Global Giving supporters for your support of quality education for Guatemalan youth. The program made a real difference for teenagers like Josselyn and Juan Carlos last year, and your investment will yield returns for years to come. Thank you!