Empower 350 Indigenous Youth in Guatemala

Between March and July 2025, even with limited financial support—raising just $75 through GlobalGiving—we kept the spirit of youth-led conservation alive in the Ecoregion Lachua. Though this amount was modest, our commitment and the commitment of our youth leaders remained strong.

Thanks to the trust of our community and the continuity of our long-term work, we were able to offer follow-up mentorship and guidance to a core group of young leaders trained in previous cycles. Although new workshops and trainings had to be postponed due to funding constraints, these youth continued advancing their skills by tending the experimental organic gardens and composting areas at the Atz’umak Center, using what they’ve already learned to care for the land and demonstrate practical, sustainable alternatives to harmful extractive activities.

One group expanded raised garden beds using agroecological practices, while another continued producing organic fertilizers from local materials. These activities not only protect the soil and biodiversity of the rainforest but also open dignified, environmentally sound livelihood paths for youth who often face migration pressures or risky informal work.

However, this reporting period also marked a difficult turning point. ORCONDECO’s broader youth program was severely affected by sudden cuts in international funding—particularly from the abrupt halt of U.S. government support for grassroots conservation. This disruption forced us to temporarily pause workshops, training, and vital support that sustains youth-led environmental action.

Yet even in these challenging times, our youth remain committed, and the seeds we have sown continue to grow. What we urgently need now is solidarity from people like you—those who believe that nature protection and youth empowerment go hand in hand.

Every donation—no matter how small—helps us restart our full training program and bring lasting opportunities to young nature guardians. With your support, we can keep this vital work alive.

Thank you for standing with us and helping our youth, forests and biodiversity flourish.