MPI Guatemala Programs

At MPI-G, our programs build upon the existing assets, resources and capacities available in the communities where we work and emphasize the following three outcomes.

Empower individuals through programs that develop their capacities to advance economically, educationally, and to become leaders in their communities.

Strengthen institutions by working alongside them to introduce best practices, connect them to national and international resources, and expand their services.

Build networks by creating stronger links among community members, connecting people to local institutions, and promoting inter-institutional collaboration.

English Programs 

Teachers’ English
The Guatemalan government requires schools to teach a foreign language, even though many teachers do not know such a language. (In indigenous communities like Chaquijyá, this means students are learning three languages in school!) To help alleviate this problem, PD’s hold teachers’ English programs in both Cooperativa and Central. In this way, we are using a “train the trainer” model, which is more sustainable than acting as English teachers in the schools.

After-School English (Beginner’s and Intermediate)
Twice per week, PD’s lead after-school programs for the Primary students in Cooperativa. Since many of the intermediate students are moving on to Básico this coming school year, we hope to offer an intermediate class for Básico students as well.

Básico English Teacher Support
Central’s Básico school started in 2012. MPI originally offered to help them by teaching their English classes twice per week. Since then, we have transitioned to a more sustainable model where we meet once per week with a Guatemalan teacher and help her learn English.

Summer Camp
Summer camp was launched in 2010 at Central, giving students an opportunity to continue their education during the vacation months. This program serves Primary students (grades first through sixth), engaging them in activities such as English, Art, Sports, and other special activities. In 2012, summer camp was extended to Cooperativa with great success!

Environmental Programs

Bottle School Project
Since waste management is such an enormous problem in Chaquijyá, MPI-G has partnered with another local NGO, Hug it Forward, to create a bottle project to provide residents with an alternative to burning or burying trash. After stuffing plastic bottles with inorganic trash, the community is using these “eco bricks” as a structural support for a four-classroom addition to the Central school. Construction is currently under way, and it should be completed by May 2013.