GAP YEAR
IN GUATEMALA

Small group Spanish classes start every Monday, year round. Class schedules are available in the morning or in the afternoon. Group classes are offered at all levels, Basic through Advanced. Groups are formed based on your results on our free Spanish Placement Exam. We keep our group classes small, ranging in size from 3–8 people, though most groups average only 3–6 people. Small group classes provide a great balance between personalized attention, social interaction, and engagement.

Volunteers work in daycare facilities, community centers, and schools. Depending on your individual skills and interests, your volunteer work may vary, but generally includes supporting local project staff, providing individual attention and care for the kids, organizing games and sports, tutoring, hygiene education, and cleaning. Your love and support are the most important things for these disadvantaged children. Bring your special skills in art, music, dance, and theater—remember a child’s play is a child’s work. We encourage you to use your skills and creativity, be open-minded, and be ready to pitch-in and help out.

In Guatemala, 6 of 7 species of sea turtles are in danger of extinction due to poaching, the destruction of their natural habitat, and the effects of commercial fishing. Sea turtle conservation projects are designed to reverse this trend and to increase the number of sea turtles. As an international volunteer, you work on the Pacific coast where you support both biologists and researchers. You learn about the local ecosystem, long-term sustainability, and animal rights.

Teaching English projects serve underprivileged schools and communities—people who want to learn English, but who do not have the financial means to do so. International volunteers work in a variety of settings including public schools, community centers, after school programs, shelters for street children, and other educational programs for the poor. Work varies at these projects, but generally consists of creating lesson plans, teaching classes, one-on-one tutoring, and organizing educational games and activities.

Grassroots organizations work to save and rehabilitate a wide range of animals. These project sites focus on providing medical care, education, and various other services to protect innocent animals. They help pets get adopted and placed in loving homes; they make sure wild animals are rehabilitated and when possible released back into their natural habitat; and they advocate for the proper care of farm animals and safe pastures where they can live and roam. Volunteer placements are available at a number of these specialized facilities, including dog and cat shelters, wildlife rescue centers, and sustainable farms. Some animal care projects are only available on a limited basis, so please mention your preference when applying.

Surf school takes place in El Salvador, just across the border from Guatemala. This is a great beach getaway to El Zonte, a small village with a relaxing atmosphere and home to many local surfers. Learn everything you need to get started or advance your surfing skills, and in your downtime enjoy the hotel pool and ocean views!